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.
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.
Automotive journalism has been filled with men and women who were memorable for their dedication to their craft as well as their colorful personalities. David Smith fits that description or perhaps, the description fits Dave. A mentor to scores of reporters and editors for decades, Smith died Thursday. He was 93. Read more 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.
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.
As the CEO of Tesla and an outspoken advocate of green technology, Elon Musk developed a large and loyal fanbase and was frequently credited as a major force helping to build demand for the automaker’s EVs. But things have changed over the nearly two years since Musk purchased what was then Twitter and began a visible shift towards the political right. That’s changed perceptions of the South African-born Musk for many former fans. But is that costing Tesla sales? Headlight.News has this story.
General Motors have inked a Memorandum of Understanding, a preliminary agreement that could lead to joint work on everything from hydrogen fuel-cells to the development and production of new gas and battery-powered vehicles. But the MoU raises questions about the future of GM’s current relationship with Japanese automaker Honda.
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.
After talking up its next vehicle in its lineup, Lucid Motors revealed a teaser of what will follow the Gravity. Officials say the new model, which will hit the streets in late 2026, aims to compete with the Tesla Model Y. Get details at Headlight.News.
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.”
South Korean automotive behemoth Hyundai Motor expects to sell 5.5 million vehicles globally by the end of the decade, including 2 million EVs and 1.8 million hybrids. The global number represents a 30% jump over last year’s numbers. Find out more at Headlight.News.