Chinese automaker BYD Co. has inquired about taking over an idle Stellantis NV plant in the Toronto suburbs, according to Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, who said BYD approached him about six months ago to discuss making buses at the factory. The plant, which has not produced vehicles since late 2023, was being retooled for the Jeep Compass until Stellantis halted that plan amid US tariffs on foreign autos. Brown also received inquiries from Leapmotor International, a joint venture between Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co. and Stellantis, and from an Italian automaker. Unifor, the union representing workers, said Stellantis is considering selling the plant, and Brown noted that global companies want Canadian manpower if the US trade stance persists. The future of the 40-year-old factory remains uncertain as President Donald Trump's 25% tariffs on foreign cars and trucks, with a possible increase to 50% in January, cloud the outlook for Canadian auto exports.
Stellantis NVStellantis halted retooling due to US tariffs and may sell the plant
Zhejiang Leapmotor Tech CoLeapmotor International, a JV with Stellantis, is interested in the plant
Boyd Gaming Corporation
BYD Co Ltd Class ABYD is exploring taking over the plant to make buses
