Stellantis Readies Grande Panda Local Production in Oran
The introduction of the Fiat Grande Panda to the Algerian market is anticipated following its local production at the Stellantis factory in Tafraoui, Oran. While a commercial launch date has not yet been announced, an Italian private agency, Agenzia Nova, suggests its arrival is expected in the coming months. This new model represents a significant step for Algeria's automotive sector, being the first vehicle produced in the country using the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) system. This method allows for more extensive local industrial processes, including body welding and painting, distinguishing it from previously utilized assembly techniques.
The Tafraoui plant, inaugurated in December 2023, is steadily increasing its production capacity. Stellantis aims to raise the local integration rate from its current 20% to over 30% through the development of Algerian suppliers. Production figures indicate growth from approximately 17,000 vehicles in 2024 to 53,000 in 2025, with a target of 90,000 in 2026 and 135,000 units annually by 2028. To support this expansion, Stellantis announced a new investment in April, which includes extending welding and assembly lines and constructing new paint workshops, ultimately creating over a thousand direct and indirect jobs. The Grande Panda will join the Fiat Doblò in the Tafraoui production line-up.
These developments align with the Algerian authorities' commitment to reinforcing local industrial production and gradually reducing reliance on imports. For Stellantis, Algeria is recognized as a crucial market in North Africa and an industrial base for its continental growth. This strategic importance was highlighted during a visit by Italian Ambassador Alessandra Schiavo to the Tafraoui plant on October 7, where discussions with plant officials and the Wali of Oran focused on strengthening economic and cultural cooperation with Italy.
