An economic earthquake is shaking Europe as Stellantis officially opens the doors of its European factories to assemble new Chinese cars, in a strategic move designed to bypass strict import tariffs. The unexpected partnership with China’s state owned Dongfeng Group will see premium EV brand Voyah produce its electric and hybrid vehicles at Stellantis’ Rennes plant in France, marking a major shift in the global automotive landscape.
The new joint venture gives Stellantis a controlling 51% stake, allowing the European giant to manage operations while benefiting from increased factory utilization. For Dongfeng, local production inside France provides a smart escape from the heavy tariffs recently imposed by the European Union on Chinese imported vehicles. In return, Stellantis gains manufacturing opportunities for Jeep and Peugeot models in China through Dongfeng facilities.
The vehicles produced in France will fall under China’s New Energy Vehicle category, including fully electric BEVs, plug in hybrids, and range extended electric vehicles. Since Voyah positions itself as a premium brand, sales will target selected European markets, particularly in Northern and Western Europe such as Germany and Scandinavian countries, using Stellantis’ established dealer network.
This is not Stellantis’ first collaboration with a Chinese automaker. Earlier this month, Opel announced plans to build a compact electric crossover in Spain with Leapmotor, another Chinese brand in which Stellantis also holds a 51% stake. These moves come as Chinese automakers rapidly grow their presence in Europe, with SAIC’s MG brand reaching a 2.3% market share and BYD climbing to 0.9% during the first quarter of 2026.
ArabGT believes Europe may be taking a dangerous gamble. While Stellantis benefits financially in the short term, it is effectively giving Chinese manufacturers access to European production lines and distribution networks. Chinese brands are no longer competing only on affordability, but are now entering the premium segment and challenging established European luxury manufacturers on their own turf.
