Stellantis will assume full ownership of its hybrid vehicle transmission joint venture with Punch Powertrain, taking over operations at production facilities in France and Italy, the company said in a statement.
The decision affects plants in Metz, France, and at the Mirafiori complex in Turin, Italy, where Stellantis will now manage the development and production of electrified dual-clutch transmissions (eDCT) independently. “This move aligns with our strategic plan to expand and renew our mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid lineup,” Stellantis said.
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The hybrid drive facility, initially launched as a joint venture in 2018 by PSA and Punch Powertrain, has focused on producing eDCT transmissions that integrate a 21-kW electric motor into a dual-clutch system.
The technology enables electric propulsion in low-torque situations, such as urban driving, allowing internal combustion engines to remain off for extended periods.
Stellantis’ latest move follows its broader investment strategy in Europe. The company recently announced plans to manufacture vehicles on its STLA Small platform in Italy and Spain, alongside a €2 billion investment in its Italian production facilities.
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Additionally, Stellantis is developing a battery factory in Spain with Chinese partner CATL and has an ongoing collaboration with Zeta Energy on lithium-sulfur battery technology.