Stellantis, a leading automotive company, is set to expand its production capacity at the Kenitra plant in Morocco. According to a report by Reuters, the company aims to double its annual production to 535,000 vehicles in the coming months.
The focus of the plant’s expansion will be on increasing the output of supermini electric cars such as the Opel Rocks-e, Citroën Ami, and Fiat Topolino. The production of these vehicles will be ramped up from 20,000 to 70,000 units to cater to markets in Europe and North Africa.
During the inauguration of the plant’s €1.2bn ($1.4bn) expansion project, Stellantis Middle East & Africa chief operating officer, Samir Cherfan, announced the expansion plans. The move is expected to boost the local sourcing rate from 69% to 75% by 2030, as stated by Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch.
In addition to increasing the production of electric cars, Stellantis also plans to manufacture hybrid engines and three-wheeled vehicles at the Kenitra facility. The plant first opened in 2019 and achieved a production capacity of 200,000 vehicles by 2020.
Morocco’s industry minister, Ryad Mezzour, highlighted that the automotive sector in the country is on track to surpass a production capacity of one million vehicles with Stellantis’ expansion. Moroccan automotive industry exports saw a 6.3% increase to $17bn last year, indicating the sector’s growth and potential for further development.
Overall, Stellantis’ expansion at the Kenitra plant signifies the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. The move not only contributes to the local economy but also strengthens Morocco’s position as a key player in the global automotive market.