On February 11, it was reported that automaker Stellantis (STLA.N) is considering withdrawing from its US battery joint venture with South Korea's Samsung SDI. This follows Stellantis' announcement last week of over €22 billion (approximately $26 billion) in asset impairments, as it gradually scales back its electric vehicle (EV) layout (layout) and conserves cash. Exiting the joint venture would be costly and complex, so Stellantis may also choose to sell its stake to a third party. After the Trump administration weakened plug-in vehicle policies, EV and battery projects have put pressure on the company, and CEO Antonio Filosa is working to curb losses. Stellantis and Samsung established the Indiana joint venture in 2021, committing to invest $2.5 billion and create 1,400 jobs in Kokomo. The plant is Samsung's only battery factory in the US, which started production in 2024 and has begun manufacturing some energy storage battery cells.