Strategic Expansion of Kénitra Plant Marks a New Era for Moroccan Automotive Industry
The collaboration between Stellantis and the Moroccan government has reached a significant milestone with the expansion of the Kénitra plant. This development highlights the deepening industrial partnership that started in 2016 and underscores Morocco’s growing influence in the global automotive sector. The project is part of broader strategic initiatives aimed at making the country a key player in the industry, with plans to exceed one million vehicles in annual production.
During the inauguration ceremony, the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, commended the partnership as an example of successful collaboration. He emphasized the strong mutual commitment between the two parties and noted it reflects Morocco’s industrial vision under King Mohammed VI’s leadership. The alliance, he added, demonstrates the confidence of international investors in Morocco as a strategic regional hub.
Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour highlighted the importance of the plant’s new capabilities, stating that its production capacity now exceeds one million vehicles per year. He described the investment as more than just a boost in capacity but as a shared ambition. Mezzour also pointed out that increased local integration and job creation reflect the success of “Made in Morocco” manufacturing.
Milestones Surpassed, Ambitions Raised
Samir Cherfan, Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East and Africa at Stellantis, praised the strength of the relationship between the company and Morocco. He stated that since the beginning, Stellantis has exceeded its initial commitments, focusing on delivering value for the country.
The Kénitra plant, established through an ambitious framework agreement, has surpassed expectations at every stage:
- Phase 1: Construction and launch of the plant, inaugurated by King Mohammed VI in June 2019.
- Phase 2: Planned capacity doubling achieved by 2020—three years ahead of schedule, reaching 200,000 vehicles annually.
Stellantis is now expanding the partnership through several high-impact initiatives:
- Engine Production: 350,000 units per year, including a new generation of mild hybrid (MHEV) engines to begin assembly in May 2025. Machining will follow in November 2026.
- Micromobility: Production of the Citroën Ami, Opel Rocks-e, and Fiat Topolino has scaled up from 20,000 to 70,000 units annually as of January 2025.
- Electric Mobility: Starting July 2025, Stellantis will launch a new line of fully electric three-wheelers—designed by Moroccan engineers at the Casablanca Technical Center (ATC)—with an annual capacity of 65,000 units. The ATC team includes over 4,000 direct and indirect professionals.
Combined, the micromobility output now totals 135,000 units per year.
Morocco’s Global Automotive Ambitions by 2030
Stellantis has also begun producing electric charging stations at the Kénitra site, with a planned annual capacity of 204,000 units. This effort supports the group’s Dare Forward 2030 strategy and aligns with Morocco’s push toward sustainable mobility.
The economic impact is expected to be substantial. By 2030, Stellantis anticipates purchasing over €6 billion in components from Moroccan suppliers, with local integration projected to reach 75%. This will further solidify Morocco’s position as a major automotive manufacturing hub.
Another key milestone will come in February 2026 with the launch of vehicles built on Stellantis’ Smart Car platform, which will double the plant’s core vehicle capacity from 200,000 to 400,000 units annually. Including micromobility, the site’s total capacity will reach 535,000 vehicles per year.
Social Impact and Workforce Development
The expansion also promises a significant social impact. The plant currently employs 3,500 people and is expected to add more than 3,000 new jobs in the coming years. This growth is part of a shared commitment between Stellantis and the Moroccan government to invest in workforce development and nurture local talent. The initiative reflects a broader vision of creating sustainable employment opportunities and fostering long-term industrial growth.
