Stellantis strengthens its presence in North AfricaAt the Jardin d'Essai in Algiers it was announced that in the Fiat plant in Tafraoui, close Orano, will start the production of the Big Panda. It will be there first car assembled in Algeria with the system completely knocked down (CKD), which involves the car arriving in assembly kit form, completely dismantled into parts and components, to then be assembled on site. A historic step for the national industry, which paves the way for creation of a local supplier chain. The The first pre-series models are expected by the end of September and the goal is to transform the site into a leading industrial hub.
“The Grande Panda is an economical, fun and family car, perfectly in line with Fiat's philosophy,” he explained. Olivier Francois, CEO of the brand. The transaction represents a key element in Stellantis' strategy, which considers the North African region crucial for future growth.
Stellantis rises on the stock market thanks to Trump and Canada
Meanwhile, the stock market has brightened, with Stellantis gaining nearly 2% following the agreement between Washington and Tokyo that reduces US tariffs on Japanese cars from 27,5% to 15% in exchange for a $550 billion Japanese investment in the United States. The agreement thus provides a breath of fresh air to a sector weighed down by months of trade war and a complicated electric transition.
But the favorable wind also comes from Canada who, according to rumours, has decided to postpone the requirement for minimum sales of electric cars set at 20% from 2026. For Stellantis the news means greater flexibility and less risk of sanctions in a market where first-half sales fell by 14%.
The petrol version of the Grande Panda makes its debut.
On the commercial front, meanwhile, Fiat completes the range with thearrival of the petrol-powered Grande PandaThe new model mounts a 1,2-liter, 100-horsepower turbocharged engine, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox and Start&Stop system to reduce fuel consumption. launch price It is set at 14.950 euros, with installments starting from 141 euros per month through Stellantis Financial Services.
La Grande Panda range and now available in three engines, petrol, hybrid and electric, and in four setups designed for different needs: from the most essential Pop to the "La Prima" with premium features and sustainable materials. With the square design that recalls the iconic Panda of the 1980s, the new Big Panda confirms the model's mission: to offer accessible and versatile mobility, aiming to conquer a large and international audience.
