• Names and logos of constituent brands like Fiat, Jeep, Citroen, Peugeot to remain unaffected
• Merger proceedings to be completed by 2021

The company formed by the planned merger of the PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles will be named Stellantis.

PSA Group and FCA agreed to a 50-50 merger last year that will create one of the world’s largest car groups, and the current aim is for the process to be completed by the first quarter of 2021.

Why Stellantis?

When the merger is completed, the firm will be known as Stellantis, which the firms say has its roots in the Latin word ‘stello’, meaning “to brighten with stars.”

In a release, the firms added, “The name’s Latin origins pay tribute to the rich history of its founding companies, while the evocation of astronomy captures the true spirit of optimism, energy and renewal driving this industry-changing merger.”

What are the implications for the individual car brands?

The Stellantis name will be used purely as a corporate brand name, and work is currently underway on a new logo for the brand. The names and logos of the merged group’s various brands, which include Citroen, DS, Peugeot, Vauxhall/Opel, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Lancia, Jeep, Chrysler, Ram and Dodge, will remain unchanged.

However, the proposed merger is currently being investigated by the European Union over the possibility of a breach of compettion norms. Among the concerne is that the merged entity would have a 34 percent share of Europe's van market.

What does this mean for the Indian market?

FCA already has a presence in India through the Jeep, Fiat and Maserati brands, while PSA will enter our market with the debut of its Citroen brand next year. It remains to be seen how the corporate proceedings of the merged companies pan out in India, though the car brands are expected to maintain their individual identities.

Jeep is currently working on a facelift for the Compass, in addition to a 7-seat version of the SUV. Citroen India will be launching its first product – the C5 Aircross – next year, followed by a compact SUV with high levels of localisation.