Stellantis and Leapmotor to develop Opel EV SUV in Spain
The automakers are discussing a partnership to build a new Opel model in Spain using Chinese technology. Production is expected to begin by 2028 in Zaragoza.
Stellantis is in advanced negotiations with ZHEJIANG LEAPMOTOR TECHNOL-H to jointly develop an electric SUV for the Opel brand. The project aims to utilize technology from China and is planned for production at the Zaragoza manufacturing facility in Spain. This collaboration is expected to help the France-Italy automotive group reduce development costs and accelerate its electric vehicle (EV) timeline.
The move comes as Stellantis adjusts its strategy to focus more on petrol-electric hybrid models following a $25 billion writedown related to its EV plans earlier this year. The company is also seeking to defend its market position against competitors like BYD CO LTD-H and improve the efficiency of its European production plants.
The proposed Opel model, codenamed O3U, would share a common architecture with Leapmotor's B10 compact SUV. Under the terms being discussed, the Chinese automaker would supply critical electronic and electrical components, while Opel would handle the exterior design of the vehicle. Production is slated to begin in 2028, with a targeted annual output of 50,000 units.
Beyond the initial SUV project, Stellantis is exploring the use of Leapmotor's technology for other future models, including the next-generation Opel Mokka B. Opel remains a vital part of the group's portfolio, representing approximately 21% of its European sales in 2025, with Germany serving as its largest single market. Preliminary discussions have also taken place regarding a potential Alfa Romeo model that could utilize the same architecture at the Zaragoza plant to optimize capacity.
The partnership between the two companies was established in 2023 when Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in the Chinese firm. They also operate a joint venture, Leapmotor International, which is responsible for the sales and production of Leapmotor vehicles outside of the Chinese market.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa is scheduled to present a new long-term business plan on May 21. While the company has modified its near-term EV targets, electric mobility remains a central component of its strategy to navigate the energy transition within the European automotive sector.
