Asia Tech Wire (May 21) -- Jeep maker Stellantis N.V. is ready to launch electric vehicles in South America that it is co-developing with Chinese partner Leapmotor (9863.HK).

Emanuele Cappellano, Stellantis' chief operating officer for South America, said in a recent interview that the company will expand its engine plant in Betim, Brazil, increasing production to about 1.1 million units a year from the current 750,000 units to coincide with the increase in production of cars in the region.

Cappellano said, "South America is interested in both things, in the Leapmotor brand and also in expanding the menu of available technologies, leveraging an experience that Leapmotor has in China and other parts of the world."

Stellantis and Leapmoto last week announced the formalization of their joint venture, Leapmotor International, in which they hold 51% and 49% of the shares, respectively.

The joint venture's management team is currently preparing for the European launch of the two electric models, the T03 and C10.

Meanwhile, Leapmotor International is also planning to launch the models in India and Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), the Middle East and Africa, and South America from the fourth quarter of 2024.