On Thursday, car manufacturer Stellantis (STLAM.MI) announced its plans to invest 160 million euros ($176.13 million) in its Rennes plant. The investment aims to introduce a fully electric SUV in 2025. The initiative reflects the company’s commitment to electric mobility.
As part of the investment, Stellantis has announced plans to establish a battery assembly workshop and a plastic molding workshop. The upcoming vehicle, codenamed CR3, will be based on the STLA Medium platform and will serve as the electric successor to the Citroen C5 Aircross. According to Reuters, the CR3 will be exclusively electric.
Following Chrysler’s decision to abandon the Airflow concept, the company is embarking on a fresh and innovative path. However, it is unlikely that the vehicle to be manufactured at the Rennes plant will be based on this concept. Instead, it will be built on the STLA Large platform, despite its scheduled introduction in 2025.
To benefit from favorable tax incentives, Chrysler plans to manufacture the vehicle in the United States. With the aim of revolutionizing the electric SUV market, Chrysler is confident that the upcoming vehicle will make a significant impact. Stellantis design boss Ralph Gilles expressed his enthusiasm, stating that it is his most cherished project since the Viper. However, the location of its production facility within the US remains an unanswered
In a recent announcement, the company revealed a $155 million investment in three Indiana plants, which will serve as the foundation for the production of vehicles based on the STLA Large platform. These vehicles include the Ram 1500 REV, the forthcoming electric Wagonneer S, and the Jeep Recon. Speculations suggest that the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan is the probable location for manufacturing the Ram 1500 REV.
One potential option for the replacement of the Airflow concept could be the recently closed Belvidere plant in Illinois. Previously responsible for manufacturing the Jeep Cherokee, the plant may still be exploring options for a new vehicle or reassigning its workforce. Meanwhile, Jeep has given a glimpse of an upcoming entry-level electric crossover, set to debut in 2025. While specific details are scarce, it is unlikely to be available in the US market.
