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Maserati could be getting some outside help as Stellantis looks for ways to turn around the struggling Italian luxury brand.
According to a report from Reuters, Stellantis is currently in discussions with Chinese technology giant Huawei and automaker JAC Group about a possible long-term industrial partnership involving Maserati. Two sources familiar with the situation confirmed the talks to Reuters.
2027 Maserati GranCabrio Trofeo. (Maserati).
Another Partnership For Stellantis?
The discussions come as Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa continues to push partnerships as part of the automaker’s new long-term strategy.
Filosa has previously said Stellantis was looking at additional manufacturing partnerships, including opportunities involving Maserati. He also indicated that a future Maserati agreement could help increase activity at the company’s Cassino and Modena facilities in Italy.
That is particularly important considering Maserati’s recent performance. The brand shipped fewer than 8,000 vehicles last year and recorded an adjusted operating loss of €198 million (or $230 million). Maserati is expected to outline its own long-term strategy in December.
2027 Maserati Grecale Trofeo. (Maserati).
Stellantis Confirms Discussions Are Common
Stellantis stopped short of confirming exactly what is being discussed with Huawei and JAC.
A company spokesperson told Reuters that Stellantis regularly holds discussions with different companies around the world as part of its normal business operations, “always with the ultimate aim of providing customers with the best mobility choices.”
Neither Huawei nor JAC immediately commented on the report.
2027 Maserati GranTurismo Folgore. (Maserati).
What Could The Partnership Look Like?
Italian financial newspaper Milano Finanza, which first reported the discussions, claims negotiations are already at an advanced stage.
According to the newspaper, one possibility would involve using Huawei’s Harmony Intelligent Mobility technology for a future Maserati vehicle. The reported goal would be to begin producing the first jointly developed model by the end of 2027.
Another possibility reportedly being discussed is a dual-brand arrangement. Under that scenario, a vehicle could be sold in China through JAC’s Maextro luxury brand while wearing Maserati badging in international markets.
Nothing has been officially announced, but the talks show just how seriously Stellantis is looking at partnerships as it works to rebuild Maserati and give the historic Italian marque a more sustainable future.
Source: Reuters
Robert S. Miller