by Stellantis Pro One announces autonomous concept and 11 new models
Commercial vans rarely attract attention, especially when sports cars with V8 engines and powerful SUVs are presented nearby. Because of this, the Stellantis commercial vehicle division remained somewhat on the sidelines during the company’s recent Investor Day.
Feeling underestimated, Stellantis Pro One decided to attract attention on its own by releasing a teaser of a future concept. The model will be officially shown at the IAA Hannover exhibition in September. The developers describe it as an autonomous “box on wheels.”
This is quite an apt description, as the concept looks like a futuristic transport module. As seen in the image, the body has an angular roof, and the wheels are shifted to the outer edges. The vehicle is likely built on a skateboard platform and equipped with a digital display.
There is not much detailed information yet, but the company stated that the concept will be completely silent and will rethink “last mile” delivery. They also promise to optimize logistics and significantly reduce operating costs thanks to full autonomy.
11 new models by 2030
In addition to the concept, Stellantis Pro One announced plans to launch 11 new models worldwide by 2030. Among them are new generation medium and large vans. They will receive “a full spectrum of powertrain options, including battery electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engines, with a special focus on hybrid solutions.” The manufacturer also promises best-in-class payload capacity, cargo volume, and upfit readiness.
Many of the other models are likely to be pickups, including the Dakota and the North American Rampage. Ram is also updating its truck lineup, as the company previously reported the arrival of new light and heavy-duty trucks.
Outside the US, an “update for the Fiat Strada and Fiat Toro” is planned in South America. The company also announced four product updates, including an updated small van, a major update of the global class-leading compact van, and the launch of two new electric variants. They will be equipped with LFP and NMC batteries to “further increase range and affordability.”
With new and updated models, Stellantis Pro One aims to become the world’s number one commercial vehicle company by 2030. It also plans to increase sales by 30%, to approximately 2,145,000 units per year.
Interestingly, Stellantis is betting not only on electrification but also on hybrid technologies, which may indicate a pragmatic approach to different markets where the infrastructure for electric vehicles is not yet developed. The autonomous “box on wheels” concept looks like a bold step into the future of logistics, but time will tell if it will be a commercial success. At the same time, the updates to popular models like the Fiat Strada and Toro indicate a desire to strengthen positions in key regions, particularly South America.
