The new chief executive of Stellantis has urged the European Union to adopt a more flexible approach to the transition toward electric vehicles, warning that rigid policies could harm the region’s auto industry.
“A strategic dialogue is very important, but now it’s vital to act with urgency. There is no time for delays,” Antonio Filosa said in an interview with Italy’s Il Sole 24 Ore and France’s Les Echos. Filosa took over as CEO of the world’s third-largest carmaker in June.
The comments come ahead of a September 12 meeting where European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will host industry executives to discuss the sector’s future. Carmakers are grappling with intensifying Chinese competition in electric vehicles and new U.S. tariffs that threaten profitability.
Filosa, whose group owns brands including Fiat, Peugeot, Jeep, Chrysler, Opel, and Alfa Romeo, called on Brussels to promote a broader mix of technologies, including hybrids. “A European policy that encourages the replacement of older cars with new cars and a wider choice of powertrains would have a greater impact on global CO2 emissions than the annual new car market does,” he said.
The CEO also highlighted challenges in the light commercial vehicle segment, describing the situation as “an emergency.” He proposed extending the period for calculating CO2 emissions in the category from three to five years to provide manufacturers with more flexibility.
On brand strategy, Filosa moved to quash speculation about potential divestments. “I want to make it clear that Maserati is not for sale, but we need to understand which products to develop and which long-term strategy to adopt for one of our most iconic brands,” he said.
Source: Reuters
