Stellantis Adjusts Operations at Mirafiori Plant Amid Market Challenges
Stellantis is strategically adapting operations at its Mirafiori plant in Turin, responding to subdued market demand for its fully-electric Fiat 500 small car and Maserati models, as conveyed by a spokesperson on Monday.
In a proactive response to prevailing market challenges, the Mirafiori plant will undergo scheduled stoppages throughout this month and the following, with the hiatus extending until March 30. This is complemented by a previously announced furlough period for approximately 2,250 workers at the facility from Feb. 12 to March 3.
During this period, Mirafiori is expected to operate at a reduced capacity, with a single eight-hour daily shift replacing the usual two-shift schedule. The spokesperson clarified that, excluding Feb. 12 when the plant will be completely halted, operations will persist at this diminished pace.
Flexibility to Respond to Market Dynamics
It was emphasized that Stellantis retains the flexibility to suspend activity entirely at the facility should market demand further weaken in the upcoming weeks.
A source within the union disclosed that an estimated 300-350 employees will be on furlough each week, out of a total workforce of about 1,250 engaged in the production of the electric Fiat 500, with an additional 1,000 contributing to the manufacturing of Maserati models. Some workers may find temporary assignments in alternative productive departments at Mirafiori, according to the source.
Notably, Italy recently introduced a new plan, earmarking 950 million euros ($1 billion) for this year, aimed at facilitating the transition to cleaner vehicles. As part of this initiative, subsidies of up to 13,750 euros will be extended for the purchase of fully-electric cars.
In a related context, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares underscored last month that Mirafiori, the historic birthplace of Fiat, stands among the plants most significantly affected by what he characterized as a conservative approach by Rome to auto incentives.
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