Stellantis Argentina President: 'Difficult to See Car Prices Falling Further'

Martín Zuppi, president of Stellantis Argentina, indicated that car prices are unlikely to fall further, citing current industry conditions. Speaking at the launch of updated Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner models, which will now be imported from Spain, Zuppi discussed the automotive industry's challenges and export prospects.

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I am not worried only about Palomar, I am worried about having an industry that allows us and gives us the means to export.

The company's plant in El Palomar currently operates with a single shift, producing the Peugeot 208 and 2008. Zuppi emphasized that the focus should be on creating a sustainable industry capable of exporting, rather than solely on individual plants. "I am not worried only about Palomar, I am worried about having an industry that allows us and gives us the means to export," he stated.

Zuppi welcomed recent government actions, such as the elimination of export taxes, which he believes enhance competitiveness. "A good piece of news was the removal of export duties. For all exporting industries and for us, it is very good news because it makes us more competitive for exporting," he said. He explained that these reductions can either help maintain prices while improving profitability or lower prices to increase sales volume in markets like Brazil.

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A good piece of news was the removal of export duties. For all exporting industries and for us, it is very good news because it makes us more competitive for exporting.

Stellantis is also looking to expand its export reach beyond Brazil, analyzing markets in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru for models like the Fiat Titano and RAM Dakota. Zuppi noted that export feasibility depends on pricing and production costs, a general industry challenge rather than a company-specific issue. While acknowledging progress in tax reforms, he suggested further improvements are needed to boost local production competitiveness.

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In either case, it makes my product more interesting for the Brazilian market.