Alfa Romeo Contemplates Switching Stelvio BEV to a Hybrid Version
In a strategic move to adapt to changing market conditions, Alfa Romeo has announced that it will be postponing the launch of its proposed new battery-electric Stelvio fullsize SUV and is considering converting it to a hybrid powertrain instead. The decision comes as the European market for battery-electric vehicles (BEV) experiences a slowdown, prompting automakers to reconsider their strategies.
The Italian automaker's latest product strategy emphasizes a flexible multi-energy approach that balances internal combustion engines (ICE) with hybrid technology. This shift away from an electric-only focus is reflected in Alfa Romeo's 2025-2029 product plan, which is currently undergoing a major revision with changed priorities and powertrain arbitrations affecting model launches.
The new Stelvio, originally expected to begin deliveries in Q1 2026, will not go on sale before autumn 2026. The hybrid version of the new Stelvio will be based on Stellantis' multi-powertrain STLA large platform. The vehicle is planned to be larger and more technologically advanced, aligning with Alfa Romeo’s global relaunch strategy that emphasizes hybridization and ICE.
The postponement and potential conversion of the Stelvio are due to a slowdown in BEV demand in Europe and the rising registrations of hybrid new vehicles. The European Union is also granting a three-year stay of punitive fines to automakers due to BEV demand not meeting current mandated sales percentages.
European automakers face other challenges as well. The influx of cheaper Chinese vehicles into European markets poses a significant challenge, and U.S. import tariffs add to their woes. Toyota's output has hit a record, possibly indicating a shift in focus or demand away from European automakers.
Consumer interest in switching to BEVs is not expected to drastically improve within the three-year timeframe. A severe lack of affordable BEV models, a poor public charging infrastructure, and the lack of government incentives to buy BEVs are chief hurdles currently facing consumers.
Despite these challenges, Alfa Romeo remains committed to its multi-energy strategy. The new Stelvio will be produced in Cassino, central Italy, and is expected to contribute significantly to the brand's global relaunch. The development of the hybrid version of the new Stelvio will take some time, but it marks a step towards a more sustainable future for Alfa Romeo.
[1] Alfa Romeo's 2025-2029 product plan undergoing major revision: [link to source] [2] Alfa Romeo shifts focus to ICE and hybrid powertrains: [link to source] [3] New Stelvio to feature hybrid powertrains: [link to source] [4] Alfa Romeo's new Stelvio: a global relaunch with emphasis on hybridization and ICE: [link to source]
- Alfa Romeo's 2025-2029 product plan has undergone a significant revision, prioritizing a multi-energy approach that encompasses both internal combustion engines (ICE) and hybrid technology. [link to source]
- As the European market for battery-electric vehicles (BEV) experiences a slowdown, Alfa Romeo is strategically adapting by emphasizing a flexible approach that includes science and technology in the development of hybrid powertrains. [link to source]
- The financial implications of the changing market conditions have influenced Alfa Romeo's decision to convert its proposed new battery-electric Stelvio fullsize SUV into a hybrid powertrain, demonstrating the automotive industry'sresponsiveness to market shifts. [link to source]
- In the field of environmental-science, Alfa Romeo's shift towards hybrid powertrains aligns with industry efforts to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future, particularly in the transportation sector. [link to source]
