New Luxury Competitor to Tesla Unveils Debut Electric SUV

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As Tesla continues to dominate the electric vehicle (EV) market, it faces increasing competition from both new entrants and established rivals introducing new models. Stellantis, the successor to Chrysler, is intensifying its efforts to establish a formidable presence in the global EV market. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the automaker already boasts 24 battery electric vehicles in its lineup as of July 2023, with more in the pipeline.

Stellantis is strategically unveiling a range of new electric vehicles to expand its market share and compete globally. In August, the company announced plans to introduce affordable entry-level electric vehicles set to hit the market in 2024. These budget-friendly EVs aim to compete with Renault in Europe and various Chinese EV manufacturers. Stellantis also hinted at the release of a second Fiat-branded entry-level electric vehicle in July 2024, priced below €25,000 or approximately $27,390. However, it remains uncertain whether this vehicle will be available in the U.S. market.

In October, Stellantis revealed the all-new, all-electric Citroën e-C3, marking its first European-designed and European-built B-segment EV hatchback. With an estimated range of 199 miles, the Citroën e-C3 is positioned as a competitive option for urban and suburban driving. Stellantis plans to commence sales of the new electric model in Europe in early 2024, with an expected price below £23,000 ($27,900) in the UK. While Stellantis has yet to confirm a U.S. release for the Citroën e-C3, it has announced the introduction of Fiat’s popular EV, the Fiat 500e, in the U.S. market in 2024, positioning it as a direct competitor to Tesla.

Looking ahead to 2025, Stellantis aims to offer an upgraded Citroën e-C3 with a 200 km (124-mile) range, priced at €19,990 or $21,068. This aggressive pricing strategy positions the vehicle as one of the most affordable new EVs in the market. Stellantis is evidently focused on providing cost-effective electric mobility

options to consumers, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

Adding to its EV portfolio, Stellantis is set to introduce the Alfa Romeo Milano, the luxury brand’s first fully electric vehicle. The unveiling is scheduled for April 2024 in Milan, Italy, a city with historical significance for the brand. In a nod to Alfa Romeo’s roots, the Milano name pays tribute to the city where the brand was established in 1910. The Alfa Romeo Milano marks the brand’s entry into the B-segment in Europe as part of its broader transition to electric vehicles.

In June 2023, Alfa Romeo engaged its dedicated fan base, known as the Alfisti, in the naming process for its inaugural fully electric vehicle. The upcoming Milano joins the company’s lineup alongside the Tonale hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, which made their debut in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Stellantis’s overarching product plan, aptly titled “From 0 to 0,” outlines its ambitious goal to transition from zero electrified vehicles in 2021 to a comprehensive lineup with zero emissions by 2027. As part of this roadmap, the company plans to unveil its first vehicle exclusively available in a 100% electric version in 2025, marking a significant stride toward its complete electrification objective in 2027.

Despite the rich lineup and strategic moves into the electric vehicle sector, Stellantis has kept details about the Alfa Romeo Milano under wraps. Key information such as pricing, range, features, and a concept vehicle image is yet to be disclosed. As Stellantis navigates the evolving landscape of the electric vehicle market, its commitment to innovation and sustainability positions it as a formidable competitor challenging Tesla’s dominance.