Stellantis, the multinational automotive manufacturer, has announced its plans to commence the production of medium-sized electric vans at its plant in Luton, UK, during the first half of 2025. The decision marks a significant move for the British market, as the plant will primarily cater to local demands.
The Luton facility will be responsible for manufacturing the Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro Electric, Peugeot E-Expert, Citroën ë-Dispatch (known as ë-Jumpy in other markets), and Fiat E-Scudo in both right-hand and left-hand drive configurations. Currently, Stellantis produces the electric variants of these models at its Hordain plant in France, while combustion versions are already being produced in Luton.
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Preparatory work at the Luton plant is set to commence within the year. However, Stellantis has only disclosed plans for “limited production of medium-sized electric vans,” without specifying exact quantities. The company stated, “The plant will manufacture predominantly for the UK Right Hand Drive market but will also be able to export to Left Hand Drive markets.” Additionally, Luton will continue to produce equivalent internal combustion engine (ICE) vans, with the majority of electric vans for markets outside the UK continuing to come from Hordain.
Upon the start of production, the Luton plant will become Stellantis’ second site in the UK to manufacture electric vehicles, following Ellesmere Port, where small electric vans like the Opel/Vauxhall Combo Electric are produced.
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Stellantis also utilizes its Gliwice plant in Poland, alongside Hordain, for the production of medium-sized and large fuel cell vans. The Luton plant, operational since 1905, has been manufacturing vans since 1932 and was transferred to the PSA Group, along with Opel, in 2017.
Maria Grazia Davino, Group Managing Director of Stellantis UK, commented, “Whilst this decision demonstrates Stellantis’ confidence in the plant, this first step in the redevelopment towards an all-electric future requires the UK Government to stimulate demand in the electric vehicle market and support manufacturers investing in a sustainable transition in the UK.”
