Following the controversial exit of Carlos Tavares in December last year, Stellantis appointed Jeep’s growth architect, Antonio Filosa, as its new CEO in May. Stellantis is one of the world’s leading Automotive conglomerates, formed in 2021 after the merger of FCA and PSA, with 14 brands under its umbrella.
He was tasked with steering the fourth-largest automaker in the world towards profitability following turbulent times for several key brands within the portfolio. His priority was to stabilize the North American business by moving some production back to the U.S., introducing competitive pricing strategies, and offering a fresh vehicle lineup across the brand’s core markets.
Filosa’s arrival was quickly followed by the return of another key figure in the Stellantis hierarchy, Tim Kuniskis. A key figure responsible for the success of the modern era of the Dodge brand, Kuniskis was brought back to lead the conglomerate’s North American comeback as Head of American Brands and North American Marketing and Retail Strategy, while also taking charge as CEO of the Truck brand. He now oversees Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge, working to tighten marketing strategies and rebuild dealer confidence. A major announcement he made was the return of RAM Trucks to NASCAR.
Now, in what is the largest single investment in the company’s 100-year history, a $13 billion investment marks the first major step in that broader recovery plan. Stellantis will expand U.S. production by 50 percent and create more than 5,000 jobs across the states of Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. This move signals a full-throttle return to growth for Stellantis in what is one of its most critical markets globally.
“Accelerating growth in the U.S. has been a top priority since my first day. Success in America is not just good for Stellantis in the U.S., it makes us stronger everywhere,” – Antonio Filosa, CEO and North America COO, Stellantis.
In Illinois, Stellantis will reopen the Belvidere Assembly Plant to produce two new Jeep models, the mid-size Cherokee and compact Compass SUVs, backed by a $600 million infusion and around 3,300 new jobs. It’s a strategic move that brings production back to the Midwest, reaffirming Jeep’s American manufacturing roots. Over in Toledo, Ohio, Stellantis will assemble an all-new midsize truck previously destined for Belvidere alongside the Wrangler and Gladiator pickup. The $400 million investment and 900 added jobs show a clear intent to compete directly with segment leaders like the popular Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger.
The state of Michigan will see Warren Truck Assembly retooled to build a large SUV in both internal-combustion and range-extended EV forms in 2028, with nearly $100 million in upgrades and 900 new positions. Meanwhile, Detroit’s Jefferson complex will be readied for the next-generation Dodge Durango in 2029 with an additional $130 million investment.
Finally, Indiana’s Kokomo facilities will produce the new GMET4 EVO four-cylinder engine starting in 2026, supported by $100 million in funding and 100 new jobs. This new powertrain is part of Stellantis’ broader plan to balance performance and efficiency across its lineup. In total, Stellantis’ U.S. footprint now spans 34 facilities across 14 states, employing over 48,000 people, setting the stage for five new models, 19 product updates, and a projected 50 percent production jump by 2029. This strategic investment is the first major step on the path to recovery and better positions Stellantis to compete with the likes of Ford and GM, which together represent the Detroit Big Three.
Image Source: Stellantis
