Stellantis and Leapmotor plan to expand partnership with European production
Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA) and Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co., Ltd. announced plans to expand their strategic partnership through manufacturing initiatives at Stellantis facilities in Spain.
The companies intend to add production of Leapmotor's C-SUV B10 model at Stellantis' Zaragoza plant, potentially beginning in 2026. The facility would also manufacture a new electric Opel C-SUV on an additional production line, with potential production starting in 2028.
Under the expanded partnership, Stellantis plans to allocate future Leapmotor products to its Villaverde plant in Madrid, with manufacturing potentially beginning in the first half of 2028. The companies are discussing transferring ownership of the Madrid facility to Leapmotor International's Spanish subsidiary.
Stellantis became Leapmotor's largest shareholder in October 2023 with approximately 21% ownership. The companies established Leapmotor International as a joint venture, with Stellantis holding 51% and Leapmotor 49%.
Leapmotor International reported more than 40,000 vehicle shipments in Europe in 2025 and operates through more than 850 sales and service points across the region. The joint venture has expanded operations to South America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and introduced the brand in Mexico in April 2026.
The partnership expansion includes joint purchasing initiatives leveraging the Chinese electric vehicle supply chain and European manufacturing capabilities. The new Opel vehicle would incorporate components from the Leapmotor International ecosystem.
The companies stated they are conducting feasibility studies and continuing discussions toward broader industrial cooperation, subject to definitive agreements and regulatory approvals.
