Jeep could soon be producing some of its next-generation electrified SUVs in China as parent company Stellantis deepens its partnership with Chinese automaker Dongfeng Motor Corporation through a major new multibillion-dollar manufacturing agreement.
The two companies signed a strategic cooperation deal on May 15 that will see production of new-energy vehicles begin at Dongfeng’s Wuhan manufacturing facility starting in 2027. The project includes both Jeep- and Peugeot-branded vehicles, with Jeep’s upcoming electrified off-roaders specifically earmarked for export to global markets outside China.
The agreement marks a major transition for Jeep, a brand historically associated with American manufacturing and rugged off-road heritage. While Jeep already builds vehicles globally, the idea of future electrified models potentially engineered and assembled in China shows just how rapidly the automotive industry is changing.
At the center of the deal is a combined investment reportedly exceeding 8 billion yuan, or roughly $1.18 billion. Stellantis is expected to contribute approximately €130 million toward the project while both companies expand cooperation in vehicle development, manufacturing, and new-energy technology. The partnership also signals Stellantis’ return to localized Jeep production in China following the collapse of its previous joint venture with GAC Group in 2022.
Jeep’s New EVs Are Headed To Wuhan
According to reports from Chinese media outlets, the Wuhan facility will produce two new Jeep-branded off-road NEVs, or new-energy vehicles, alongside two new Peugeot models. While Stellantis has not revealed exactly which Jeep vehicles are involved, the project strongly suggests the brand’s next generation of electrified SUVs could rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing and technology.
The vehicles produced at Wuhan are expected to target international export markets, not just domestic Chinese sales. That distinction is important because it highlights how Chinese EV manufacturing is increasingly becoming a global supply hub rather than simply serving local demand.
Jeep’s future lineup is already moving toward electrification through products such as the Jeep Wagoneer S and the upcoming electric Recon off-roader. The new Wuhan-built models could expand that strategy further into more affordable or performance-focused electrified SUVs designed specifically for global growth.
The use of the term “off-road NEVs” also leaves room for a wide range of powertrain possibilities, including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, or extended-range systems.
Chinese Technology Is Becoming Hard To Ignore
The Stellantis-Dongfeng deal arrives as global automakers increasingly rely on Chinese EV expertise to accelerate development timelines and reduce costs. Chinese manufacturers now dominate large portions of the global EV supply chain, particularly in batteries, charging systems, software integration, and electric drivetrains.
Industry observers believe future Jeep models developed under the partnership could eventually incorporate Chinese-developed technologies or platforms. Reports earlier this year suggested Stellantis was already evaluating Dongfeng-based architectures for future products.
The timing also reflects broader competitive pressure coming from China’s rapidly evolving SUV market. Several Chinese automakers are now building electrified off-road vehicles producing well over 800 horsepower while offering advanced suspension systems, fast charging, and increasingly sophisticated software.
For Stellantis, partnering more deeply with Dongfeng provides faster access to technologies and manufacturing scale that would be difficult and expensive to replicate independently.
Antonio Filosa said the project would combine Stellantis’ global automotive brands with “cutting-edge EV technologies” developed through the new cooperation.
Peugeot Will Also Play A Major Role
The Wuhan project is not limited to Jeep. Peugeot is expected to launch two new NEVs under the Dongfeng Peugeot Citroën Automobile joint venture, commonly known as DPCA.
Unlike Jeep’s export-focused models, Peugeot’s upcoming vehicles are expected to target both Chinese domestic buyers and overseas markets. DPCA executives have repeatedly described the strategy as “China production, global sales,” positioning the Wuhan operation as a global export hub for future electrified vehicles.
Earlier this year, Peugeot showcased several new concept vehicles at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show that could preview future production models emerging from the partnership.
The expanded cooperation also comes as DPCA attempts to reverse years of declining sales. The joint venture once sold more than 700,000 vehicles annually in China but reportedly fell to roughly 51,500 units in 2025 as domestic competition intensified.
Jeep’s Global Identity May Be Changing
For Jeep enthusiasts, the announcement represents a potentially controversial evolution for one of America’s most recognizable automotive brands. Jeep has long marketed itself around rugged Americana, military heritage, and traditional off-road capability.
However, the automotive industry is increasingly globalized, especially in the EV era. Manufacturing locations, software partnerships, and battery sourcing are becoming less tied to national identity and more dependent on cost efficiency, technology access, and production speed.
Stellantis has already shown willingness to work closely with Chinese automakers. The company expanded its relationship with Leapmotor after acquiring a major stake in the EV startup, and additional collaborations could follow as global competition intensifies.
Whether buyers embrace Chinese-built electric Jeeps may ultimately depend less on where the vehicles are assembled and more on whether they still deliver the capability, design, and personality customers expect from the brand.
By 2027, Jeep’s next generation of electrified off-roaders could look very different from the SUVs that built the company’s reputation, and they may arrive from Wuhan rather than Toledo.