Stellantis, the multinational automotive company, is preparing to add the new Jeep Compass to its lineup at the Melfi plant in southern Italy, according to sources with knowledge of the matter. This decision follows Stellantis’ recent announcement of plans to introduce a fifth model at the Melfi facility, which was discussed during a meeting between CEO Carlos Tavares and Italy’s Industry Minister, Adolfo Urso.
The forthcoming model will be a variant of the popular Compass SUV, which is already being manufactured at the Melfi plant. Stellantis has confirmed that the vehicles produced at Melfi will consist of “high-value premium models for foreign brands, plus an Italian one.” These models will be based on the newly unveiled STLA Medium platform, which is designed to accommodate electric vehicles. Alongside the new Jeep Compass, Stellantis has previously pledged to introduce four other models at the Melfi plant. However, official announcements regarding these models are yet to be made. Industry insiders anticipate that the lineup will include two models from the DS brand, one from Opel, and one from Lancia.
The complete lineup of future production at the Melfi plant is expected to be unveiled by the end of the month, as part of a larger agreement currently being negotiated between Stellantis and the Italian government. It is projected that production of the new models based on the STLA Medium platform will commence in 2024. Currently, the Melfi plant is responsible for manufacturing Jeep’s Renegade and Fiat’s 500X models.
As the third-largest global carmaker in terms of sales volume, Stellantis is strategically consolidating its production onto four platforms: STLA Small, Medium, Large, and Frame. This approach aims to optimize efficiency and flexibility across the company’s vehicle lineup.
Stellantis’ decision to produce the new Jeep Compass at the Melfi plant underscores the company’s commitment to Italy and strengthens its presence in the country. The expansion of production aligns with Stellantis’ broader strategy of offering a diverse range of premium models while embracing electric vehicle technology. By capitalizing on the success of the Compass SUV and leveraging the capabilities of the STLA Medium platform, Stellantis aims to meet the evolving demands of the market and further solidify its position in the automotive industry.