The group’s first gigafactory moves forward as Stellantis scales battery ambitions
The VEC section focusing on Electric and Connected Vehicles will not be halted by the election timing announced by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Industry sources indicate that Perte’s planning remains unaffected by the electoral schedule, and although a second access window to funds is slated for next month, it is understood to be authorized by ministerial orders and does not require cabinet approval from the Ministry. The department led by Héctor Gómez is signaling reassurance to the broader automotive sector after voices from employers’ groups such as Anfac and specifically Stellantis urged continuity, with the sentiment of maintaining the existing positive trajectory.
Speaking at the Barcelona Motor Show, officials confirmed that the second Perte VEC call is planned for release in June. The Industry Ministry noted that work has remained steady since July 25 and will continue unabated. The response emphasized adherence to the scheduled timeline and ongoing compliance with the implementation commitments contained in both the General Government Budget and the Healing, Transformation and Resilience Plan.
Stellantis’ plant representatives signaled concern about potential changes following the government’s statement. They acknowledged the significance of sustaining the momentum built in recent months through Perte funds, the strategic industrial platform associated with the Vigo and Zaragoza facilities, and the high voltage agenda for Balaídos.
Industry leaders echoed a sense of nervous anticipation among Anfac members and other regional groups. The Anfac chair and CEO of Seat and Cupra suggested that preparation has progressed well and expressed hope that announcements will come before the elections. Wayne Griffiths stressed the uncertainty created by electoral developments and urged clarity to avoid further disruption.
Griffiths also highlighted the lag in electrification progress for parking facilities in Spain and called for decisive actions to accelerate deployment. He argued that a new government would be needed soon to prevent a prolonged period of ambiguity that could slow investment.
The Catalan cluster CIAC added its voice, urging the calendar to proceed along the planned route and warning against further delays in European aid delivery to the sector.
The ACC gigafactory in Douvrin, France, remains a visible symbol of this collaboration. It marks the first of Stellantis and its partners TotalEnergies and Mercedes-Benz three planned factories under the Automotive Cells Company initiative.
The collaboration aims to establish a strong footprint in battery production for electric vehicles, with Douvrin beginning at an initial capacity of 13 gigawatt hours and scaling to 40 GWh by 2030. The battery facility is designed to deliver high-performance lithium-ion cells with a reduced carbon footprint, aligning with broader electrification goals across Europe.
Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares recalled the 2020 agreement to pursue an ambitious global program for battery development as a cornerstone of the group’s electrification strategy. The plan envisions a multi-site network with additional facilities in Germany and Italy, while a fourth site in the Iberian Peninsula could be announced within the year. Tavares also noted considerations about potential expansions in North America, referencing new projects in the United States and Canada, though some groundwork in that region has seen pauses as developments unfold.
The overarching strategy frames a transition toward a robust electric vehicle ecosystem across Europe and beyond, with battery production seen as critical to reducing emissions and accelerating adoption of EV technology. Stakeholders remain focused on translating commitments into tangible investments, jobs, and a faster transition to sustainable mobility.
At stake is not only a technological upgrade but a broader industrial policy that seeks to harmonize national budgets with European aid flows and private capital. The conversations around Perte VEC, the ACC venture, and related energy infrastructure underscore a shared aim to sustain momentum while navigating political cycles.
In summary, the sector appears determined to preserve the steady cadence of funding and development while monitoring political developments that could influence policy direction. Industry leaders advocate for timely announcements, predictable support, and clear timelines to maintain confidence among manufacturers, suppliers, and regional clusters across Spain and its European partners.
The first phase of the ACC project demonstrates how cross-border collaboration can accelerate battery manufacturing and contribute to regional economic resilience while aligning with climate objectives. The ongoing dialogue among industry associations, government bodies, and corporate partners continues to shape a practical pathway toward a more electrified and competitive automotive sector in North America and Europe.
The group’s first gigafactory is on its way
Stellantis, together with TotalEnergies and Mercedes-Benz, unveiled the initial facility of their joint venture, Automotive Cells Company ACC, in Douvrin, northern France. The site will begin with a 13 GWh capacity and are planned to rise to 40 GWh by 2030, producing high-performance lithium-ion batteries with a low carbon footprint.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares reflected on the partnership launched in 2020, noting the shared commitment to a global program that supports the company’s electrification agenda. The other two factories are planned for Germany and Italy, with a prospective fourth site in the Iberian Peninsula potentially announced this year. Tavares also mentioned potential projects in the United States and Canada, though current plans in those markets have faced pauses as progress continues.