Stellantis Accelerates EV Transition with Massive Michigan Investment

Jeep and Ram owner Stellantis is making a significant investment of over $406 million to retool three of its Michigan plants, signaling a major push towards electric vehicle (EV) production in the United States. The move comes as the company prepares to launch its first all-electric Jeep, Dodge, and Ram models, including the highly anticipated Ram 1500 REV electric pickup truck.

Powering the Future of Mobility

Stellantis' Ambitious EV RoadmapStellantis has outlined a comprehensive "multi-energy strategy" that aims to accelerate its transition to electric vehicles. The company's latest investments in Michigan are a crucial step in this direction, as it prepares to bring its first all-electric models to the US market.Retooling for Electric DominanceThe $406 million investment will be used to retool three of Stellantis' Michigan facilities, including the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP), the Warren Truck Assembly Plant (WTAP), and the Dundee Engine Plant (DEP).Electrifying the Ram LineupThe SHAP facility will be the first in the US to produce an all-electric vehicle for Stellantis, with the company confirming that the Ram 1500 REV electric pickup will be built there starting in late 2024. The Ram 1500 REV will be offered with two battery pack options, providing up to 500 miles (229 kWh) or 350 miles (168 kWh) of range.Jeep's Electric TransformationStellantis is also investing $97.6 million into the WTAP to prepare for the production of the Jeep Wagoneer S, the brand's first global all-electric model. The Wagoneer S will be one of four new Jeep EVs launched globally by the end of 2025, which also include the Wrangler-inspired Recon EV and a new mainstream electric crossover SUV.Powering the Future at DundeeThe Dundee Engine Plant (DEP) will be retooled to assemble, weld, and test battery trays for Stellantis' STLA Frame architecture. The facility will also produce front and rear beams for the STLA Large platform, with production slated to begin in 2024 and 2026, respectively.Dodge Joins the EV RevolutionDodge, another Stellantis brand, is also set to launch its first all-electric model, the 2024 Charger Daytona. The brand claims that the Scat Pack version of the Charger Daytona will maintain its title as the "World's quickest and most powerful muscle car."Seizing the OpportunityStellantis' investments come at a time when some of its US rivals, such as Ford and GM, have faced setbacks in their EV plans. Ford has scrapped plans for its electric three-row SUV, while GM has pushed back several EV projects, including the opening of its electric truck plant in Michigan and a battery factory in Indiana.Jeep and Ram's Chance to ShineThis presents a unique opportunity for Jeep and Ram to capitalize on the shifting landscape and establish themselves as leaders in the electric vehicle market. Jeep, in particular, is undergoing a brand revamp and is looking to reverse a five-year sales slump. The Wagoneer S is expected to play a crucial role in this turnaround, as the company focuses on delivering a "perfect quality" electric SUV.Driving Towards a Sustainable FutureStellantis' investments in Michigan are a clear indication of the company's commitment to its Dare Forward 2030 strategy, which aims for 100% of passenger car sales in Europe and 50% of its passenger car and light-duty truck sales in the US to be electric by the end of the decade. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Stellantis is positioning itself at the forefront of the electric revolution, ready to meet the growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.