Leapmotor International and Grimaldi Group Solidify Strategic Partnership to Scale Advanced Logistics Across Europe
Leapmotor International (LPMI), the strategic joint venture between Stellantis and Leapmotor, is proud to announce the continued expansion of its logistics partnership with the Grimaldi Group.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in automotive supply chain orchestration, having successfully delivered nearly 100,000 vehicles from China to Europe in the last 18 months, including more than 20,000 units to the Italian market in the Jan-Mar 2026 period.
The operation was executed through a structured program of 15 sailings over the first quarter of 2026, connecting China with multiple European ports of entry (Antwerp, Portbury, Valencia, Vigo, Setubal, Livorno, Civitavecchia and Gioia Tauro). This initiative highlights Leapmotor International’s capability to design and manage complex, large-scale supply chains, delivering fully integrated end-to-end logistics solutions in partnership with the Grimaldi Group.
A Future-Proof Fleet for Sustainable Growth
The program utilizes the Grimaldi Group’s next-generation fleet of Pure Car & Truck Carriers (PCTC), including the Grande Svezia, Grande Michigan, Grande Istanbul, and Grande Tianjin. These vessels represent a portion of a major investment in 17 new PCTCs, each boasting capacities exceeding 9.000 CEU (Car Equivalent Units).
In alignment with the maritime sector’s 2050 net-zero ambitions, these vessels are ammonia-ready, combining massive scale with a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of global vehicle distribution.
A key enabler of the program is the Grimaldi Group’s integrated logistics platform, underpinned by significant infrastructure investments across major European ports.
Integrated Port Infrastructure and Value-Added Services
Beyond maritime transit, the partnership relies on Grimaldi’s integrated logistics platform and significant infrastructure investments. These facilities, including key hubs in Italy and additional strategic locations across Europe, play a central role in supporting the operation. Spanning nearly six million square meters of equipped port areas, they enable highly efficient and streamlined vehicle handling processes, including preparation, maintenance, and battery charging.
A Strategic Vision Built on Three Pillars
At the core of the initiative lies LPMI’s advanced logistics design and orchestration capability, enabling the company to manage increasing volumes and operational complexity. The program is structured around three main pillars:
- End-to-end supply chain planning and synchronization: Leapmotor production in China is closely aligned with maritime capacity and terminal availability, often requiring tailored, case-specific solutions. This approach enables LPMI to effectively respond to strong market demand while strengthening its position within the Stellantis ecosystem.
- Integrated supply chain coordination: Close alignment of maritime and inland operations ensures rapid vehicle flows through European ports, handling peak volumes exceeding 5.400 units per vessel call. Continuous coordination among all stakeholders – shipping carriers, terminal operators, road transport providers, and customs authorities – is critical to maintaining efficiency and reliability.
- Operational discipline and continuous improvement: Detailed planning and ongoing optimization of processes ensure consistent performance and secure activities on the ground, enhancing operational efficiency and robust execution across the entire logistics chain.
Executive Perspectives
“Logistics is a key differentiator and a strategic lever for competitiveness in the modern automotive sector,” added Alessandro Furnò, LPMI VP of Global Supply Chain & Purchasing. “Our ability to lead such a complex ecosystem – supported by a trusted partner like the Grimaldi Group – is a cornerstone of our commercial success. This partnership ensures that our logistics capabilities evolve as fast as our technology, securing our momentum in the European market.”.
“We are proud to support Leapmotor International during this transformative phase of their European expansion” said Luigi Pacella Grimaldi, Automotive Intercontinental Director of the Grimaldi Group. “This is more than a service agreement; it is a long-term partnership built on trust and shared execution. We remain committed to providing the scalable, tailored logistics solutions necessary as LPMI’s volumes continue to reach new heights.”.
About Leapmotor International
Leapmotor International is a 51/49 Stellantis-led joint venture dedicated to distributing and manufacturing Leapmotor’s high-tech, cost-efficient electric vehicles outside of Greater China. The partnership leverages Stellantis’ global resources to accelerate Leapmotor’s international presence.
About the Grimaldi Group
Headquartered in Naples, the Grimaldi Group is a world leader in the transport of cars and Ro/Ro cargo. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the Group operates one of the most modern fleets in the world, providing comprehensive logistics solutions across a network of more than 150 ports on five continents.
