As the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike against Detroit automakers enters its second month, Stellantis has announced its withdrawal from CES 2024 in Las Vegas, citing the ongoing strikes as the primary reason for this decision. In a press release issued by Stellantis, the company emphasized the mounting costs associated with the UAW strikes and the need to take action to mitigate financial impacts and preserve capital.
Stellantis stated that it is “executing comprehensive countermeasures” to address the financial challenges arising from the UAW strikes. However, the press release did not provide specific details regarding these countermeasures. As a result, it remains uncertain whether Stellantis will also withdraw from other automotive events, such as the SEMA Show and the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Stellantis had been listed as a featured exhibitor for the 2024 CES event on the CES website as of October 17. When questioned about the cancellation, a CES representative declined to offer additional comments and directed inquiries to Stellantis’ official press release.
While Stellantis has pulled out of CES, it appears that the SEMA Show remains on the schedule for brands under the Stellantis umbrella. Teasers announcing the presence of classic Dodge Charger and adventure-focused Ram HD Rebel vehicles from the in-house parts brand Mopar continue to circulate. Despite strikes affecting 20 Mopar parts distribution centers, the brand is poised to maintain a strong presence at the 2023 SEMA Show, set to kick off on October 31.
The Los Angeles Auto Show, opening to the general public on November 17, currently lists Stellantis brands, including Ram, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat, and Chrysler, as participants. While there haven’t been significant rumors circulating about debuts at the show, there is a possibility that the refreshed Ram pickup could be unveiled.
Camouflaged prototypes of the updated Ram have been spotted throughout the summer, and it was confirmed that the launch is slated for the first quarter of 2024, although it remains unclear whether this refers to a debut or the start of production. Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis provided this timeframe in August 2023.
In light of the ongoing UAW strike and its impact on automakers, Stellantis’ decision to withdraw from CES 2024 underscores the significant challenges that labor disputes present to the industry. The company’s focus on preserving capital and managing financial impacts reflects the complex dynamics at play in the automotive sector as it navigates labor negotiations and supply chain disruptions.