**Stellantis Aims for 2000 Monthly Citroën Sales in India**
Stellantis Managing Director Shailesh Hazela announced at the launch of the Citroën Basalt X that the company aims to boost Citroën sales to 2000 units per month. The Basalt X, which is based on the high-end variant of the coupe-styled crossover, features a new color scheme and several innovative features, including an AI digital assistant named “Cara.”
Currently, Citroën India sells fewer than 500 vehicles monthly, with only 494 units sold in July. Hazela expressed optimism that the recent changes in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure, which reduced the tax rate from 28% to 18% for Citroën’s C3 derivatives (excluding the Aircross), will lead to increased sales.
Stellantis India currently operates two brands: Jeep and Citroën, with plans to introduce a third brand, Leapmotor, by early 2026. Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, will enter the Indian market through a joint venture with Stellantis, which holds a majority stake in Leapmotor International. However, Hazela clarified that Stellantis does not plan to take advantage of the government’s EV incentives, which require significant investment in local manufacturing.
Hazela is hopeful about the potential India-Europe free trade agreement (FTA), stating, “It’s a matter of when and not if. An FTA is always beneficial for a company like Stellantis, which has manufacturing operations in 62 countries.”
When Leapmotor enters the Indian market, it will face stiff competition, particularly in the mid-size SUV and premium compact hatchback segments. Stellantis is cautious about investing in local production, adhering to a philosophy of ensuring sustainability rather than merely responding to policy changes. Hazela emphasized the importance of meeting local market expectations without compromising long-term viability.
Stellantis has already invested ₹11,000 crore in India, which includes a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu and R&D centers in Pune and Chennai.
**FAQ**
**What is Stellantis’ sales target for Citroën in India?**
Stellantis aims to increase Citroën sales to 2000 units per month in India.
