Stellantis, the multinational automotive manufacturing corporation, takes a calculated approach to establishing manufacturing plants, basing decisions on more than just governmental policies, according to Stellantis India MD. This approach reflects a commitment to sustainable growth and strategic investment in the Indian market.
Stellantis' operations in India include three manufacturing plants located in Ranjangaon, Hosur and Thiruvallur. Additionally, the company has an ICT Hub in Hyderabad, a software center in Bengaluru and two R&D centers in Chennai and Pune. Stellantis is committed to the "Make in India" initiative, producing four Jeep nameplates (Wrangler, Compass, Meridian, and Grand Cherokee) locally, making India the only country outside North America to do so. The Citroën C5 Aircross is also produced in India, outside of France.
Shailesh Hazela was recently appointed as the CEO and Managing Director of Stellantis India, succeeding Aditya Jairaj. Jairaj will be relocating to the United States. The leadership transition will be completed by mid-July. Hazela has over 28 years of experience across the automotive, telecommunications, and railways sectors. He previously served as Vice President, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain for India & Asia Pacific region for Stellantis. Since joining Stellantis in September 2022, Hazela has focused on strengthening the supply base across India, ASEAN, Korea, and Japan. He holds a Master's in Business Administration and a Bachelor's in Industrial Engineering.
Hazela expressed his eagerness to drive technological innovation and strengthen Stellantis' position in existing and emerging mobility segments. Ashwani Muppasani, COO of Stellantis India & Asia Pacific, voiced confidence in Hazela's leadership and his ability to drive growth and innovation in the Indian market.
Stellantis is focused on its Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan, which aims to achieve carbon net-zero emissions by 2038. The company's portfolio includes brands such as Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, FIAT, Jeep, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, Vauxhall, Free2move, and Leasys.
