Stellantis ASEAN MD Isaac Yeo in a recent interview with Paultan.org confirmed the re-entry of Jeep and Alfa Romeo to the Malaysian market. However, he also added that both the brands will not be dealt with by Stellantis directly but by different entities.
The purpose of this is because, at the moment, Stellantis are focusing on the Chinese automaker Leapmotor. As a result, Jeep and Alfa Romeo will be managed under a “hybrid model system,” explained Yeo. This strategy will also adopt a “boutique-style” approach, as both brands are expected to operate in low volumes within the Malaysian market.
He further noted that this arrangement may only be temporary, as Stellantis could assume full control within the next two years. By then, the company’s next-generation products are expected to mature, offering a broader and more diverse range. In the meantime, the brands will continue to be managed under the current system, as despite their iconic status, there remains considerable scepticism surrounding them.
“I have a lot of brands to play with, but I need to be ready with every brand. For us now, Leapmotor is the focus, and boutique-style for Jeep and Alfa Romeo,” Yeo added. “That will keep me relevant. I don’t need to be up there, just to be relevant, but I will make a comeback.”
The specific models that may arrive from both brands have yet to be confirmed. However, with Malaysia accelerating its adoption of EVs and hybrids, there is potential to see models such as the sixth-generation Jeep Cherokee or the rugged Wrangler.
(Source: Paultan.org)
