Why Stellantis is Betting Big on US Manufacturing

Stellantis has pledged a huge US$13bn investment to scale its operations across the US over the next four years, with a focus on expanding its manufacturing footprint and launching new vehicles in high-demand segments.

It comes as the automotive giant seeks to mitigate the harm caused by US President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs, which are already having a significant impact competitors' manufacturing activities and supply chains.

Stellantis' financial commitment is the biggest in its 100-year US history, as it targets a 50% boost in annual vehicle production and the creation of more than 5,000 jobs across Illinois, Ohio, Michigan and Indiana.

Antonio Filosa, CEO at Stellantis, says the plan supports a customer-first approach and ensures Stellantis strengthens its position in one of its most important global markets.

"This investment in the US – the single largest in the company’s history – will drive our growth, strengthen our manufacturing footprint and bring more American jobs to the states we call home," he continues. 

"Accelerating growth in the US has been a top priority since my first day. Success in America is not just good for Stellantis in the US – it makes us stronger everywhere."

The multi-billion-dollar injection is set to fund five new vehicle launches across key product categories, the full development of a new four-cylinder engine and ongoing powertrain updates.

Stellantis has also confirmed that 19 refreshed vehicle models are on track for introduction across its US assembly network through to 2029.

Illinois: Jeep production returns to Belvidere

In Illinois, Stellantis has outlined plans to invest more than US$600m to reopen the Belvidere Assembly Plant.

The facility, which closed in 2023, is set to restart operations with a focus on producing the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Compass for the US market, with production beginning in 2027.

This investment is forecast to create about 3,300 jobs in the region.

The Belvidere project represents a central pillar of the company's renewed commitment to domestic manufacturing. By reactivating the plant, Stellantis signals a return to full-scale output in a region where Jeep has long maintained a customer base.

The investment also supports expanded research and development work, which the company confirms forms part of the broader $13bn plan.

Ohio: New midsize truck heads to Toledo

Elsewhere, Stellantis has confirmed a near-US$400m investment to support production of an all-new midsize truck in Ohio.

The model, previously designated for Illinois, has been shifted to the Toledo Assembly Complex where it will sit alongside the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator. Production is expected to launch in 2028, with Stellantis estimating the move will create more than 900 new jobs.

The Toledo site will also see continued development of technologies and product enhancements for its existing Jeep line-up. This includes critical component work at the Toledo Machining Plant, where efforts will be focused on future-proofing vehicle architecture and maintaining strong assembly volumes.

Michigan and Indiana: Powertrains and new SUVs

Stellantis has set out two major commitments in Michigan.

First, the Warren Truck Assembly Plant will be retooled to produce a new range-extended electric vehicle (EV) and an internal combustion engine (ICE) large SUV. This dual drivetrain approach aligns with the company’s strategy to give customers product choice.

The programme is due to start in 2028 and receives a US$100m investment, creating more than 900 new roles at a plant that currently builds the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.

Second, Stellantis has confirmed a US$130m spend to prepare the Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson for production of the next-generation Dodge Durango. The vehicle is earmarked for launch in 2029 and continues the company’s stated goal from January 2025 to keep investing in legacy model lines while introducing newer alternatives.

Meanwhile, in Indiana, Stellantis' focus is on powertrain technology.

The company has confirmed plans to produce the GMET4 EVO, an all-new four-cylinder engine, across several Kokomo facilities. These upgrades total more than US$100m and add more than 100 manufacturing jobs, while ensuring the US becomes the main production hub for a core power unit which is central to Stellantis’ engine roadmap.

National footprint and strategy

Stellantis' currently operates 34 manufacturing sites, distribution centres and R&D locations across 14 US states, supporting a network of more than 48,000 employees, 2,600 dealers and almost 2,300 suppliers across thousands of communities.

The organisation's latest announcement builds on existing plans revealed in January 2025 and forms part of a wider effort to scale North American operations and improve supply chain resilience.

As Stellantis enters its next century of US operations, the company's record-setting investment will enhance product offerings, grow production capacity and reinforce a long-term commitment to domestic manufacturing.