Toward the end of last year, there were reports of a new vehicle named the “Pandlina” poised to be introduced, with plans for global distribution and a range of customization options tailored for specific markets. Expected to be priced around 20,000 euros, these new electric vehicles are set to roll out from the production lines in Kragujevac.
While seen as promising news, experts urge caution in predicting the exact timeline for this venture, considering it’s still pioneering not just locally but globally.
Serbia is on the verge of joining the league of countries manufacturing electric cars, with the announcement that by the year’s end, Stellantis’ Kragujevac plant will commence production of a new electric vehicle model.
Though the media reports that the first electric car prototypes have been produced in Kragujevac for testing, the exact debut date and location remain undisclosed. However, it’s worth noting that this launch will mark the first electric car produced in the Balkans.
While various presentation dates are speculated, it’s likely to be unveiled during the summer. Initially rumored to be a revamped version of Fiat’s “Panda” model, the official name and details of the new model are yet to be confirmed by Stellantis.
In parallel with these developments, the Serbian government has initiated subsidies for electric vehicle purchases, earmarking 170 million dinars for this purpose. Subsidies are available for individuals, businesses, and entrepreneurs, aiming to enhance air quality and environmental sustainability.
However, despite the positive strides, challenges remain. The lack of charging infrastructure poses a significant hurdle for mass adoption of electric vehicles domestically. Moreover, while subsidies may incentivize purchases, electric cars still command relatively high prices, limiting their accessibility to the average consumer.
Given these factors, it’s anticipated that the majority of electric cars produced in Kragujevac will find their way to international markets where infrastructure and demand are more robust, potentially yielding greater returns for Stellantis.
Overall, while the production of electric cars in Serbia marks a significant milestone, its success hinges on addressing infrastructure gaps and making electric vehicles more affordable and accessible to the broader population.
