In this week’s episode of the Headlight.News podcast we talk about Stellantis’s ongoing struggles as well as Carlos Ghosn emerging from the shadows to contend with more legal issues. We also review the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Final Edition and take a look at This Week in Automotive History.
Stellantis Plans to lay off hundreds of full-time and seasonal employees starting October 1 as it enters “full execution mode” aimed at coping with slumping sales and earnings. But the cuts could lead to further friction even as members of the United Auto Workers Union vote on whether to authorize a strike at the Euro-American automaker.
Barely a year after wrapping up a “stand-up strike” against Detroit’s Big Three automakers the the United Auto Workers Union appears ready to launch another series of walkouts. First in line: a Ford unit producing critical tooling for parts plants and assembly lines could face a strike at midnight Wednesday after talks broke down. Stellantis could be next.
Once one of the most respected executives in the auto industry, CEO Carlos Tavares is coming under withering fire from investors, dealers and employees as the company’s fortunes fade – especially in North America, its most profitable region. With his contract set to expire early next year, the automaker is considering whether it’s time for a management shake-up.
Ram, Stellantis’ truck unit, rolled out its 2025 model year light-duty pickups earlier this year, putting its 2500 and 3500 offerings on hold — until now. While not a full release, the company’s providing an early look at the portfolio before its full reveal sometime next months. Check out the new models at Headlight.News.
Jeep, along with Ram, are Stellantis’ cash cows, providing the funding for brands that, if not on life support, don’t realize nearly the profits that these American powerhouse brands bring. So, you have to wonder: What took Stellantis so long to realize that Jeep had issues — major issues. Find out more at Headlight.News.
When is a Final Edition trim package not actually the final edition? When it’s the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition. That said, it would be a helluva way to go out. Regardless, Headlight.News spent a week in the new Final Edition and we’ve got opinions — lots of ’em.
Stellantis product plans are in flux, leading to an increasingly bitter dispute with the United Auto Workers. The union is demanding the company honor commitments made during contract negotiations last year. The dispute could threaten in launch of the Ramcharger planned for early next year. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Prominent Jeep and Ram dealers are increasing pressure on Stellantis executives to boost sales in the United States in the wake of a substantial market-share decline.
In this week’s episode of the podcast, we discuss GM's latest court battle, the fire at Rivian's plant, and a surprise shakeup at struggling EV maker Polestar. We also review the 2024 Volvo EX90 before making a detour to take a look at This Week in Automotive...
Since the formation of Stellantis a few years ago, speculation about what will happen with the low-selling, but still-iconic Chrysler brand has run rampant. Officials, led by CEO Carlos Tavares, assured there were plans for Chrysler. However, time has passed with just one product left, the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, and now someone wants to resurrect the brand: Walter P. Chrysler’s great-grandson. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Ford Motor Co. will pare back its diversity efforts, joining companies like Lowe’s, John Deere and Beam Suntory, the producers of Jim Beam liquor who have entirely abandoned so-called DEI programs. Ford’s move was hailed by conservatives, but denounced as “shortsighted” by human rights advocates. For his part, CEO Jim Farley said the automaker will still work to creative an “inclusive workplace.”