Stellantis has announced a record-breaking $13 billion (around 47.7 billion AED) investment plan over the next four years to expand its U.S. production network and launch a wave of new models under its Jeep, Dodge, and Ram brands. This is the automaker’s largest investment in its 100-year history, with over 5,000 new jobs set to be created across Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.
Expanding Production Footprint
Under the plan, Stellantis will increase its U.S. annual production capacity by 50%, signaling a renewed commitment to growth in its most critical market. CEO Antonio Filosa described the move as a strategic step to “strengthen our manufacturing footprint while giving customers more freedom to choose the vehicles they truly want.”
Key new developments include:
- Illinois (Belvidere Assembly) – Stellantis will invest over 2.2 billion AED (600 million USD) to reopen the previously idled Belvidere facility to build the new Jeep Compass and the revived Jeep Cherokee. The plant will come online in 2027 and employ about 3,300 workers.
- Ohio (Toledo Assembly Complex) – A nearly 1.5 billion AED (400 million USD) investment will shift production of the upcoming Ram mid-size pickup, representing the first mid-size truck from Dodge or Ram since the Dakota’s discontinuation in 2011. Production is expected to begin in 2028, alongside the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator. Around 900 new jobs will be added.
- Michigan (Warren Truck Assembly) – The iconic Warren facility will receive close to 367 million AED (100 million USD) to produce a new large SUV, available in both internal-combustion and range-extender plug-in hybrid variants. This model is distinct from the Grand Wagoneer lineup and is expected by 2028, creating 900 jobs.
- Michigan (Detroit Assembly–Jefferson) – The Detroit complex will receive an investment of around 477 million AED (130 million USD) to launch the next-generation Dodge Durango by 2029, continuing the brand’s muscle-oriented heritage while accommodating hybrid technology.
- Indiana (Kokomo Plant) – Stellantis will begin production of a new GMET4 EVO four-cylinder engine in 2026 following a 367 million AED (100 million USD) investment, creating 100 additional jobs.
New Product Lineup
The sweeping investment will bring five all-new vehicles by the end of the decade, alongside 19 updated models and powertrain upgrades across the manufacturer’s portfolio. Highlights include:
- Next-Gen Dodge Durango (2029) – Expected to continue Dodge’s iconic performance SUV legacy, potentially featuring an electric-assist plug-in hybrid powertrain.
- Ram Mid-Size Truck (2028) – Targeting Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevy Colorado buyers, expanding Ram’s appeal in the competitive pickup market.
- Jeep Cherokee & Compass Revival (2027) – Hybrid-focused SUVs aimed at strengthening Jeep’s mainstream lineup with modern, efficient drivetrains.
- New Large SUV (2028) – Offering both ICE and hybrid options, bridging the gap between the Wagoneer and the Durango in Stellantis’ growing utility portfolio.
Strategic Motives
Beyond product diversification, Stellantis’ U.S. investments are seen as a response to post-2024 tariff pressures and shifting market conditions triggered by President Donald Trump’s new trade policies. Analysts note that moving manufacturing closer to primary sales regions not only reduces import tariffs but also future-proofs Stellantis against geopolitical and supply chain disruptions.
Global & Regional Relevance
For Middle Eastern markets, Stellantis’ investments in large SUVs and hybrid powertrains directly align with regional trends toward performance-driven yet more efficient vehicles. The upcoming Durango and range-extender SUV are likely candidates for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region’s product portfolio, given local preferences for spacious, high-torque models engineered for long-distance cruising and desert performance.
Conclusion
Stellantis’ $13 billion investment marks a new chapter in the group’s American operations, combining heritage performance with evolving electrification goals. With five new vehicles, including the future Dodge Durango, Ram mid-size truck, and range-extender large SUV, the company aims to achieve a robust recovery while securing its presence in key segments across global and Middle Eastern markets.
