Stellantis and Leapmotor Explore Expanded EV Production Partnership in Spain

Stellantis announced on May 8 that it is evaluating several new initiatives with Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co., Ltd following encouraging early outcomes from their existing cooperation. The discussions focus on expanding electric vehicle production capabilities in Spain, strengthening supply chain collaboration, and improving competitiveness in the European EV market. The proposed plans are intended to support affordable electric mobility while combining Chinese EV technology expertise with European engineering and manufacturing capabilities.

Potential Opel Electric SUV Production at Figueruelas Plant

One of the major proposals under consideration involves adding a new production line at Stellantis’ Figueruelas manufacturing facility in Spain. The plant could potentially manufacture a new Opel electric C-segment SUV starting around 2028. In addition, Leapmotor’s B10 electric SUV may also enter production at the same location as early as 2026. The initiative would allow Stellantis to utilize Leapmotor’s EV architecture and battery systems while integrating Opel’s design language, engineering standards, and regional development expertise to create vehicles tailored for European customers.

The collaboration aims to improve cost efficiency and accelerate electric vehicle deployment in Europe’s highly competitive automotive market. By combining shared EV platforms with localized production capabilities, the companies expect to reduce manufacturing expenses while maintaining product quality and performance standards. This strategy may also help both companies respond more effectively to growing consumer demand for competitively priced electric SUVs across the region.

Proposed EV Manufacturing Plans in Spain

Supply Chain and Procurement Cooperation Expansion

The companies are also exploring broader procurement collaboration through Leapmotor International. This approach would focus on sourcing automotive components and materials more efficiently by leveraging China’s mature EV supply ecosystem while continuing to maintain reliable European supply operations. The strategy is expected to support lower production costs, improve component availability, and shorten development timelines for upcoming electric vehicle programs.

At the same time, Stellantis intends to preserve strong regional supply chain resilience within Europe. The balance between global sourcing and localized manufacturing operations could help improve production stability and support faster vehicle launches in multiple international markets. The initiative reflects the increasing importance of strategic sourcing partnerships in the global EV sector as manufacturers seek better scalability and operational flexibility.

Villaverde Plant Future Production Assessment

At Stellantis’ Villaverde facility in Madrid, discussions are underway regarding the possible production of a future Leapmotor vehicle from approximately 2028 onward. The move is being evaluated as production of the Citroën C4 at the plant is expected to conclude in the coming years. Under the proposal, ownership of the facility could potentially transition to Leapmotor’s Spanish subsidiary while continuing to manufacture vehicles designed to meet European market regulations and customer requirements.

The vehicles produced at the Villaverde facility would primarily target customers across Europe as well as Middle East and African markets. Both companies stated that the plans remain under evaluation, and any final implementation will depend on future agreements, operational studies, and regulatory approvals. The ongoing discussions highlight the growing importance of international partnerships in accelerating EV expansion and regional manufacturing development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Stellantis and Leapmotor expanding their partnership?
Stellantis and Leapmotor are exploring expanded cooperation to improve electric vehicle affordability, strengthen manufacturing efficiency, and accelerate EV development in Europe. The companies aim to combine Leapmotor’s EV platform and battery expertise with Stellantis’ manufacturing scale and European engineering capabilities. Their proposed initiatives include new production lines in Spain, joint procurement strategies, and future vehicle manufacturing opportunities. These efforts are designed to reduce costs, improve supply chain performance, and support faster EV launches in competitive global markets while maintaining strong regional production capabilities.

Which vehicles could be produced under the proposed partnership plans?
The proposed collaboration could include production of Leapmotor’s B10 electric SUV and a future Opel electric C-segment SUV at Stellantis’ Figueruelas plant in Spain. In addition, a new Leapmotor vehicle may be manufactured at the Villaverde facility in Madrid starting around 2028. The Opel model would combine Leapmotor’s EV technology with Opel’s engineering and design expertise. However, all projects remain under evaluation and are subject to final business agreements, technical studies, and regulatory approvals before production decisions are finalized.