[DigitalToday reporter Chi-gyu Hwang] Automaker Stellantis posted 22 billion euros ($26 billion) in restructuring losses, sending its shares plunging in European and U.S. stock markets. On Feb. 6, Stellantis shares fell 25 percent in Milan and 23 percent in New York.
According to CNBC, the losses stemmed from an overly rapid shift to electric vehicles (EVs). Chief executive Antonio Filosa (안토니오 필로사) said, "We were overly optimistic about the pace of the energy transition, which created a gap with actual consumer demand," and added, "Past operational failures were also reflected in the costs."
Stellantis said it maintains its position as a leading EV developer but will adjust the pace of its future electrification strategy based on demand. It also decided to sell a 49 percent stake in its Canadian battery joint venture NextStar Energy to LG Energy Solution.
The company said it expects a net loss in 2025. It plans to suspend its 2026 dividend and issue up to 5 billion euros of hybrid bonds to strengthen its financial structure. For 2026, it targets mid-single-digit revenue growth and a slight rise in operating margin.
Stellantis last year announced a plan to invest $13 billion in the United States over four years. Its U.S. market share rose to 7.9 percent in the second half, and it remains No. 2 in Europe.
Stellantis is scheduled to officially announce its full-year 2025 results on Feb. 26.