Stellantis CEO signals possible brand shakeup while saying the job is 'a blast'

After six months as CEO, Antonio Filosa said he is enjoying the role and indicated Stellantis may revisit its large brand portfolio, with fuller details to be shared at Capital Markets Day in 2026.

Antonio Filosa, six months into his role as Stellantis CEO, spoke with reporters at the Detroit Auto Show about the company's direction and stakeholder relationships. He said he is enjoying the job and noted the company is considering its large portfolio of brands. Filosa described efforts to repair ties with dealers and the United Auto Workers and outlined recent shifts in the company's approach to electrification. He said more on brand strategy will be presented at Capital Markets Day in 2026. Key takeaways: - Filosa said he is "having a blast" as CEO and has spent about half his time in the United States since taking the role. - He did not rule out shrinking or shifting Stellantis's international brand portfolio and said the company will address the topic at Capital Markets Day in 2026. - Filosa said dealer relationships are improving through regular contact and a broader mix of powertrains. - He said relations with the United Auto Workers are also being rebuilt and pointed to a $13 billion Midwest investment that he estimates will support about 25,000 jobs including suppliers. - Stellantis has adjusted its EV plans, discontinuing plug-in hybrids (including the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe), canceling an electrified Ram pickup, and discontinuing a battery-powered Dodge Charger while emphasizing hybrids, range-extended electric vehicles, and internal combustion options. Summary: Filosa's remarks indicate possible changes to how Stellantis manages its brand portfolio and confirm a shift toward a varied powertrain strategy that includes hybrids, range-extended EVs and internal combustion engines. He described improving relationships with dealers and the UAW and highlighted a major Midwest investment tied to job creation. The company says it will present fuller brand strategy details at Capital Markets Day in 2026.