The Italian government and the opposition called on Stellantis chairman John Elkann to address parliament following an unexpected resignation of former CEO Carlos Tavaras, Euractiv reported.
However, Elkann declined the invitation, citing the need to await the outcome of talks with Italy’s Minister of Economic Development Adolfo Urso. The talks are scheduled for 17 December.
Luigi Gusmeroli, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce’s Committee on Productive Activities, Trade and Tourism, stated on Tuesday that Elkann would be open to institutional talks as soon as parliamentary discussions were concluded.
Urso confirmed that the purpose of the meeting was to finalise negotiations on Piano Italia, a plan to position Italy as a key player in Stellantis’ European operations.
During my conversation with John Elkann, we identified the conditions that make us optimistic about reaching an agreement. We are confident that we can share a plan that places Italy at the centre of Europe’s automotive future.
Italian factories have been closed for months amid the ongoing crisis in the European auto industry, pending an industrial plan, with thousands of workers laid off.
Stellantis, formed in 2021 by the merger of Italian-American Fiat Chrysler and France’s PSA, is the last major car manufacturer operating in Italy. Stellantis controls most of the country’s iconic car brands, including Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Lancia and Maserati.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini criticised Elkann. Salvini said that Elkann should have already come to parliament and “bring a cheque, reminding us of how many billions of euros this company has received in public funds over the years.”
There are still state-backed loans worth billions of euros. What economic results have we seen in return? Which closures, layoffs, and furloughs have followed?
