According to media reports, Stellantis will collaborate with Dongfeng Motor to launch a new Jeep model, with the vehicle potentially being released as early as the first quarter of 2027. According to plans, the new Jeep model will use the vehicle platform and core powertrain systems provided by Dongfeng, while Jeep may lead the design of the exterior and interior of the vehicle, combining the strengths of both parties. It is still uncertain whether the model will be limited to the Chinese market, but the Chinese market is almost certain to be a core focus.
The new Jeep model is expected to complete development within the next 18 months, and its core technology will heavily rely on Dongfeng’s existing new energy architecture, particularly in power systems, intelligent cabins, and advanced driver assistance systems. The model will directly adopt Dongfeng’s mature technology solutions. Referring to the current power configurations of the Dongfeng Warrior M817 and M917, the new model is likely to be equipped with a plug-in hybrid or range-extended electric system similar to those.
The Warrior M817 is equipped with a 1.5T turbocharged engine and a dual-motor plug-in hybrid system, delivering a maximum power output of 687 horsepower and a maximum torque of 848 Nm. The Warrior M917 uses a 1.5T range-extended platform, with an engine maximum power of 145 kW, a motor maximum power of 600 kW/800 kW, and a motor maximum torque of 1050 Nm.
This news about Jeep launching a new model based on Dongfeng’s platform follows Stellantis’ closer collaboration with Dongfeng. In late July this year, Stellantis’ new CEO, Antonio Filosa, visited Dongfeng Group just one month after taking office, accompanied by several executives, and specifically experienced key models from the Lantu and Warrior brands, expressing the intention to deepen cooperation. Subsequently, in August, Alain Favey, the global CEO of Peugeot under Stellantis, and Xavier Chardon, the global CEO of Citroën, also visited Wuhan and Shenlong Automotive to inspect China’s new energy vehicles, charging networks, and the full ecosystem.
Stellantis and Dongfeng have a long history of cooperation, having jointly established Shenlong Automotive, one of the earliest joint ventures to enter the Chinese market. It owns three major brands: Dongfeng Peugeot, Dongfeng Citroën, and Dongfeng Fukang. It was once a well-known joint venture in China, but with the intensifying competition in the Chinese automotive market, numerous domestic brands have gained larger market shares through enhanced technological capabilities, a diverse product lineup, and a precise understanding of local market needs. Meanwhile, other joint venture brands have increased their investments, causing Shenlong Automotive’s market share to be gradually eroded.
Now, Stellantis is shifting its focus to Dongfeng’s Warrior brand, and it plans to develop a new Jeep model within the next 18 months. The new model will feature an independently designed body but rely on Dongfeng’s powertrain system, intelligent cabin system, and driver assistance technology.
If the new Jeep model is successfully produced in China by 2027, it could have a significant impact on the market. For the Jeep brand, this is undoubtedly a great opportunity to make a comeback. Previously, Stellantis had partnered with GAC Group to produce Jeep models in China, but eventually withdrew from the domestic market. This time, with the new model based on Dongfeng’s platform, and leveraging Dongfeng’s advanced new energy and intelligent technologies, coupled with Jeep’s off-road DNA, the new model, if successfully launched and recognized in the market, could greatly boost the revival of the Jeep brand.
From Stellantis’ perspective, the Chinese market has always been a key strategic market. In recent years, Stellantis’ performance in China has not been ideal, with continued declines in sales and significant pressure on its performance. The collaboration with Dongfeng to create a new Jeep model represents an important strategic move for Stellantis in China. If the new model is successful in the Chinese market, it will not only boost Jeep’s sales and market share but also open up new opportunities for Stellantis in China, enhancing its competitiveness and further expanding in the Chinese market to achieve growth.
