Stellantis, the automotive manufacturer, has announced its intention to reopen an assembly facility in Illinois and produce the upcoming Dodge Durango in Detroit, as shared with employees on Wednesday.
North America’s Chief Operating Officer, Antonio Filosa, remarked in an email that the Belvidere plant, situated approximately 70 miles northwest of Chicago, will be utilized to assemble a new midsize pickup truck. This initiative aims to reinstate around 1,500 employees represented by the United Auto Workers (UAW).
The company also confirmed the establishment of Durango production at its Detroit Assembly Complex. Beyond Dodge and Chrysler, Stellantis encompasses other well-known brands, including Ram and Jeep.
Additionally, the automaker plans to increase its investments in the Toledo facility in Ohio and make further contributions to its operations in Kokomo, Indiana, focusing on producing the GME-T4 EVO engine, thereby solidifying its manufacturing base in the United States.
On a related note, UAW President Shawn Fain along with Kevin Gotinsky, director of the UAW Stellantis Department, indicated in a letter to union members that the Belvidere plant is set to reopen in 2027.
In September, the UAW lodged accusations with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging that Stellantis unlawfully withheld information regarding the potential shift of Durango production from Detroit to Canada.
The UAW also raised grievances concerning delays in reopening the Belvidere facility and plans to establish a parts distribution center and an electric vehicle battery plant in the area, with threats of a strike looming over these issues.
Previously, the UAW had asserted that Stellantis had committed to the reactivation of the Belvidere plant and Durango production under the new contract established in 2023 after a six-week strike.
Stellantis, however, denied any breach of contract, explaining in September that, like other automotive firms, it was navigating the timing and management of new vehicle introductions to remain competitive in the market.
The UAW’s letter expressed that achieving these developments reflects the collective strength of workers and their ability to hold large corporations accountable.
Fain and Gotinsky mentioned that they’ve observed significant changes since working with Filosa and his team, especially following the recent departure of Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares.
“This current leadership is poised to reinvest in our members, communities, and the company itself,” said Fain and Gotinsky.
In Filosa’s email, it was also highlighted that Chairman John Elkann had a meeting with President Donald Trump to deliberate on matters concerning the U.S. auto sector, job creation, and the broader economy.
Elkann communicated to the President that, building upon a legacy of over a century of operations in the U.S., Stellantis is committed to further fortifying its manufacturing presence and ensuring ongoing stability for American workers.
Fain and Gotinsky concluded by urging union members to remain vigilant and organized, emphasizing that maintaining jobs in the U.S. requires a continuous fight. “We’ve demonstrated to both the company and our nation our readiness for this battle,” they stated.
