Stellantis NV has opened conversations with Chinese automotive groups about potential investments aimed at bolstering its European operations, people close to the discussions said. The company is directing its internal capital toward the Americas while exploring whether external partners could help address challenges within its European business.
Executives from Stellantis have met with representatives of Xiaomi Corp. and Xpeng Inc. to explore a range of options for reshaping the automaker's footprint in Europe, according to people familiar with the deliberations. Those people, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks are private, said the discussions included the possibility that the Chinese companies might acquire equity stakes in Maserati or other brands owned by Stellantis.
In addition to equity participation, the meetings reportedly covered the subject of access to automaking capacity. Chinese automotive groups have been seeking ways to broaden their presence in Europe, and access to production facilities was described as part of the conversations held with Stellantis executives.
The people who described the talks emphasized that Stellantis is prioritizing its own investment resources for the Americas. That strategic focus has prompted the company to examine alternatives for its European operations, including partnerships with or investments from third-party groups.
Details on the structure, timing, or scope of any potential deals were not provided by the sources, and no formal agreements were reported. Sources declined to be identified when discussing internal deliberations, leaving the talks at an exploratory stage as described by those people.
The discussions, as outlined by the individuals familiar with them, reflect two linked priorities: finding external investment or ownership solutions for parts of Stellantis's European business and responding to Chinese automakers' interest in expanding their manufacturing and market presence in Europe.
Sectors affected: Automotive manufacturing, European auto market, cross-border investment and mergers.