Stellantis plans to reopen Illinois plant, reinstate 1,500 jobs

Stellantis plans to reopen its Belvidere, Illinois plant, which had been idled since early 2023, and will produce a new midsize pickup truck while reinstating approximately 1,500 UAW-represented jobs. This decision is expected to help resolve ongoing disputes with the United Automobile Workers union and improve relations with the Trump administration. Antonio Filosa, Stellantis' North American COO, emphasized the company's commitment to invest in U.S. operations. Additionally, the company is focusing on production of the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit and enhancing operations in Toledo, Ohio, and Kokomo, Indiana. These strategic moves are part of a broader initiative to strengthen Stellantis' manufacturing presence in the U.S. following leadership changes within the company. Filosa's communications with employees indicate these plans were discussed with Trump prior to his inauguration.