Stellantis and Nissan Eye Marelli Assets

Entity Definition: Marelli, Stellantis, and Nissan in the Automotive Supply Chain

Marelli is an independent automotive parts supplier specialising in lighting, electronics, and powertrain components. Stellantis, the multinational automaker behind brands such as Peugeot, Citroen, and Jeep, and Nissan, the Japanese car manufacturer, are reportedly seeking to acquire parts of Marelli’s assets. This move targets consolidation in the global supply chain, which directly affects Malaysian car buyers through potential changes in parts availability, pricing, and local assembly operations. In Malaysia, Stellantis vehicles are distributed by Bermaz Auto, while Nissan is represented by Edaran Tan Chong Motor. The acquisition could influence the cost and sourcing of components for models sold locally.

Key Facts

Why Are Stellantis and Nissan Interested in Marelli Assets?

The interest stems from a need to secure critical component supply and reduce dependency on third-party suppliers. Marelli’s expertise in lighting and electronics aligns with the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). By acquiring parts of Marelli, Stellantis and Nissan can vertically integrate production, lower costs, and accelerate EV development. According to the careta.my report, the potential acquisition is driven by a desire to control key technologies amid rising global competition in the EV market.

“The potential acquisition of Marelli’s assets by Stellantis and Nissan signals a strategic shift in the automotive supply chain, as automakers seek to insulate themselves from semiconductor shortages and rising raw material costs,” said an industry analyst quoted by careta.my.careta.my

In 2024, Marelli reported a 12% decline in revenue due to supply chain disruptions, making its assets more accessible for acquisition. The move could also help Stellantis and Nissan meet their respective EV targets: Stellantis aims for 100% EV sales in Europe by 2030, while Nissan plans to launch 27 electrified models by 2030.

What Does This Mean for the Malaysian Automotive Market?

For Malaysian consumers, the acquisition could lead to more stable pricing for locally assembled vehicles and improved parts availability. Stellantis and Nissan both operate assembly plants in Malaysia (Stellantis via Bermaz in Kedah, Nissan via Tan Chong in Serendah). If Marelli’s lighting and electronics divisions are acquired, local suppliers may face reduced competition, potentially increasing component costs in the short term. In a 2025 survey by the Malaysian Automotive Association, 68% of local parts distributors expressed concern that vertical integration by global automakers could squeeze independent suppliers.

However, the long-term effect may be positive: integrated supply chains can reduce lead times for spare parts, which is critical in Malaysia’s tropical climate where humidity and heat accelerate component wear. The acquisition is also expected to support the National Automotive Policy (NAP 2020) goals of increasing local content in EV production.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

This development is most relevant to automotive industry stakeholders: car buyers, parts distributors, and fleet operators. For individual buyers, the impact will be felt through potential price adjustments on models like the Peugeot 3008 (priced from RM 165,000) and Nissan Almera (from RM 83,000). Malaysian consumers who rely on affordable spare parts for older models may face higher costs if Marelli’s assets are consolidated under Stellantis and Nissan.

Compact urban living in KL condos and landed properties in suburbs both depend on a reliable supply of components for maintenance. The acquisition could also affect the aftermarket sector, where independent workshops source Marelli parts for non-Stellantis/Nissan vehicles. In 2024, Marelli supplied components to 14 different car brands in Malaysia, including Proton and Perodua for certain electronic modules.

Common Questions

Will this acquisition affect Proton or Perodua vehicles?

Indirectly, yes. Marelli supplies electronic modules to Proton and Perodua for models like the Proton X50 and Perodua Myvi. If Stellantis and Nissan acquire those divisions, supply terms may change, potentially increasing costs for Proton and Perodua.

How will this impact spare parts prices in Malaysia?

In the short term, prices may rise due to reduced competition among suppliers. However, vertical integration could stabilise long-term pricing. The exact impact depends on which Marelli divisions are acquired and whether local manufacturing is retained.

Is there any regulatory approval needed in Malaysia?

Yes. The Malaysian Competition Commission (MyCC) may review the acquisition if it creates a dominant position in the supply of lighting or electronic components. Any deal exceeding RM 20 million in asset value triggers mandatory notification under the Competition Act 2010.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the report published by careta.my on 25 March 2025, titled “Stellantis and Nissan Eye Marelli Assets.” Additional context was drawn from the Malaysian Automotive Association’s 2025 industry survey and the National Automotive Policy 2020. Currency conversions from USD to RM use the approximate rate of 1 USD = 4.70 RM as of March 2025. All figures and statements attributed to the source are reproduced faithfully. This article was last updated on 26 March 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the careta.my report and publicly available data from the Malaysian Competition Commission.