The plan targets the Innocenti and Autobianchi brands, both of which ceased operations in the 1990s. Innocenti was known in the 1960s and 1970s for producing an Italian version of the British Mini before being acquired by Fiat, now part of Stellantis. Autobianchi, a former Fiat unit, produced upmarket city cars like the A112 and Y10.
Il Sole 24 Ore reported that Italy's industry minister has registered versions of these two brands with the national patents and brands office, using different graphics from those registered by Stellantis. The industry ministry did not comment on the report, and Stellantis stated that it was aware of the media reports but had not been informed by the government about any such plans.
The newspaper said the government's move would be enabled by a law passed in December and a draft decree under review by the Court of Auditors, concerning brands unused for at least five years. Under government control, these brands could be allocated to "companies, including foreign ones, that intend to invest in Italy or move to Italy manufacturing activities located abroad"
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's nationalist government has had ongoing disputes with Stellantis, accusing the automaker of neglecting its historical production bases in Italy. The government is in talks with Stellantis, Italy's sole major automaker, to boost domestic production to 1 million vehicles per year. It also aims to expand the domestic industry by attracting a Chinese automaker to Italy.
On Thursday, Fiat unveiled its Serbian-made Panda model at its historic Turin headquarters, celebrating its 125th anniversary. Industry Minister Adolfo Urso, who attended the event, reiterated the call for Stellantis to revitalize its manufacturing activities in Italy.
Source: Reuters