Tavares Calls Filosa A “Logical and Credible” Choice As Stellantis CEO

Six months after stepping away from one of the world’s biggest car companies, former Stellantis Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Carlos Tavares is finally opening up about his time at the helm—and what he thinks of his successor, Antonio Filosa.

In an exclusive interview with Bloomberg, Tavares, now living a quieter life on a farm in rural Portugal, said he supports the company’s decision to tap Filosa as the new CEO. “I think it’s a logical, credible choice,” Tavares said. Hopefully, he will be properly supported by the board. So let’s see.”

The leadership change comes after months of uncertainty following Tavares’ December 2024 exit, which capped off a rocky year of declining profits, dealer tension, and growing unrest from the United Auto Workers (UAW) and Unifor unions.

Tavares’ cost-cutting playbook often clashed with expectations in the U.S. market. Eliminating the beloved HEMI® V8 engine, swapping durable metal components for cheaper plastic ones, and raising vehicle prices made it increasingly difficult for American dealers to move inventory, all of which fueled growing frustration across Stellantis’ U.S. network. “The dealers in the U.S. did not want to support what we were trying to do, which is my responsibility,” he admitted.

Now 66 years old, Tavares spends his time walking the countryside, racing cars once a month, and investing in wine production, hospitality, and possibly even a small airline. He earned roughly $40 million in pay and severance from Stellantis and says he’s using it to enjoy life on his own terms.

Tavares also shared thoughts on where the industry is heading, especially as U.S. trade tensions and Chinese EV competition shake things up. He predicts more mergers among European automakers as companies look to stay afloat in an increasingly cutthroat market.

“Europe will struggle to produce electric vehicles (EVs) that can compete on price with their Chinese counterparts,” he warned. His advice? Go upscale. Compete on quality, not cost.

Tavares didn’t name names when asked about other job offers, but confirmed that several Asian automakers have approached him. For now, he’s not interested. “I needed 45 years to understand that it’s better to work for oneself than for somebody else,” he said. “My friends are telling me you were right to leave, and that I left at the right moment.”

With Antonio Filosa now steering Stellantis, all eyes are on what comes next. Tavares, at least for now, is watching from a vineyard.

Source: Bloomberg