Stellantis is considering, among other options, a possible sale of its Maserati luxury unit, which is in financial difficulties, said two sources with knowledge of the matter, as the automaker seeks to reformulate its large portfolio of 14 brands.
Discussions about Maserati’s future began before the appointment of the new CEO Antonio Filosa last month, while Stellantis was directed by current President John Elkann. Filosa will take the lead of the group on Monday.
The feasibility of the 14 Brands of the Franco-Italian company-which include Chrysler, Peugeot, Jeep and Alfa Romeo-was a priority for Elkann when he interviewed candidates to hold the position of CEO.
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Like other European automakers, the fourth largest automaker in the world is facing heavy import tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump and fighting strong competition from Chinese rivals.
Stellantis hired McKinsey consultancy in early April to advise her on the effects of US tariffs on Maserati and Alfa Romeo, while the two brands prepare future plans. Stellantis then stated that it was totally committed to both brands.
However, the possible sale of Maserati, its only luxury brand, is among the options that McKinsey is exploring to Stellantis, the two sources told Reuters, adding that the consultant’s evaluation is still in the early stages. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not allowed to discuss the matter publicly.
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A Stellantis spokesman said, “Respectfully, Maserati is not on sale.”
McKinsey declined to comment.
Filosa’s predecessor, Carlos Tavares, who resigned in December after a bad performance in the US market, refused to consider the possibility of dispeling any of the marks of the automaker.
But some investors and analysts say that a simplified portfolio would increase Stellantis’s profit margins. Stellantis’ shares have lost two thirds of their value since March last year.
