In a concerning trend mirroring challenges faced by Volkswagen, Stellantis, the European market leader, is experiencing a significant drop in Italian production, falling below 500,000 vehicles for the first time since 1958. The aging workforce at the Mirafiori plant in Turin reflects the dwindling interest of younger generations in the automotive industry.
Michela Sanfilippo, a factory worker, shared a disheartening encounter when a young tattoo artist was unaware of Stellantis and its products, highlighting the disconnect between the older workforce and the changing industry landscape.
The neglect of investment in new models by Stellantis has contributed to the decline in Italian car production, shifting away from Turin as a hub for innovation. Despite challenges, Stellantis remains hopeful for the future of Mirafiori, focusing on producing hybrid vehicles and exploring partnerships with other carmakers to revitalize the industry in Italy.
As the automotive sector undergoes transformation, the fate of Turin’s automotive legacy hangs in the balance, leaving workers like Davide Manago anxious about their children’s prospects in the industry.