Jeep Is Cutting Down Gladiator Production
Stellantis is cutting 1,139 jobs at its Toledo Assembly Complex in a move to scale back production of the Jeep Gladiator.
Starting January 5, the plant will shift from two shifts to one, leaving many workers indefinitely laid off as the automaker navigates declining sales and inventory challenges.
The decision primarily impacts the South plant of the facility, which produces the Jeep Gladiator alongside the Wrangler. Jeep sales have fallen sharply, with a 34% decline last year from peak levels, and Stellantis is now focused on realigning its U.S. operations to address high inventory levels and restore competitiveness.
Affected employees will receive one year of supplemental unemployment benefits, totaling 74% of their regular pay, in addition to eligible state unemployment benefits. Stellantis is also providing one year of transition assistance and two years of healthcare coverage.
“This was a difficult decision, but necessary for Stellantis to manage production and regain its competitive edge,” the company said in a statement. Despite the layoffs, Stellantis hinted at the possibility of resuming higher production levels once market conditions improve.
The layoffs follow a challenging year for Jeep, with declining sales and production halts for models like the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler. Stellantis had previously paused operations at several plants in September to reduce inventory, signaling the growing pressures on the automaker.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the cut-throat world of IndyCar.
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