Stellantis Files to Rejoin ACEA Amidst Green Transition Challenges

Stellantis, Europe’s second-largest automaker, has applied to rejoin the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) after leaving the group in early 2023. The move signals a potential company strategy shift under its new leadership.

In a statement released on Friday, Stellantis confirmed its intention to rejoin ACEA, saying, “We recognize the value of a united front in addressing the unprecedented challenges facing the automotive industry in Europe.”

The ACEA, established in 1991, represents 15 major Europe-based car, van, truck, and bus manufacturers, including industry heavyweights like BMW Group, Renault Group, Volkswagen Group, and Toyota Motor Europe. Collectively, the association focuses on driving sustainable mobility while maintaining Europe’s global competitiveness.

A New Direction for Stellantis – 

Stellantis left the ACEA under the leadership of former CEO Carlos Tavares, who took a critical stance on the association’s approach to electrification and carbon reduction goals. Tavares opposed a key ACEA proposal to delay fines for automakers failing to meet 2025 EU carbon reduction targets.

With Tavares stepping down earlier this week, Stellantis appears to be recalibrating its approach. Rejoining ACEA could mark a more collaborative and cautious stance on navigating the challenges of the green transition, particularly as automakers face rising costs, regulatory pressures, and an evolving market landscape.

ACEA Welcomes Stellantis Back – 

Luca de Meo, ACEA President and CEO of Renault Group, welcomed Stellantis’ application and emphasized the importance of unity in tackling Europe’s automotive challenges.

“Given Europe’s unprecedented competitiveness crisis and collective need to master the challenges of the green transformation, it is more important than ever to stand united. ACEA members may be competitors on the market, but they all share the same goal: a competitive and sustainable transition to zero-emission mobility, in a Europe that can stand its ground globally. This we will continue working on with full drive and commitment,” said de Meo.

The Role of ACEA in Europe’s Auto Industry – 

The ACEA plays a crucial role in representing the automotive sector, which accounts for over 7.5% of the EU’s GDP and employs 13.2 million people. The industry also contributes approximately €383.7 billion ($407 billion) in tax revenue to European governments annually and invests €72.8 billion ($77.2 billion) in research and development.

By rejoining ACEA, Stellantis aligns itself with other leading manufacturers to collectively address Europe’s transition to zero-emission mobility. The move could strengthen the industry’s efforts to balance environmental goals with economic sustainability.

A Competitive and Sustainable Future – 

Stellantis’ re-entry into ACEA reflects its commitment to driving collaboration within the industry while addressing the growing demands of electrification and sustainability. As the automaker moves forward under new leadership, its partnership with ACEA will likely play a pivotal role in shaping its strategies for the European market and beyond.