Carlos Tavares, an Industry Captain Who Loves Cars

Carlos Tavares did not arrive at the helm of the Stellantis Group by chance. His passion for automobiles is what drives him.

On August 29, 2013, Renault announced the somewhat forced departure of its number 2, Carlos Tavares. A reprimand for openly expressing the highest ambitions. “Anyone who is passionate about the automotive industry knows that there comes a point when the appetite and energy for a number 1 position are felt,” he stated in an interview with Bloomberg, discussing the possibility of moving to the United States and a company like General Motors or even Ford. A champion’s temperament aiming always for the top of the ladder rather than just honorary positions. This was enough to irritate Carlo Ghosn, then head of the diamond marque, as there has always been a major difference between the two. Ghosn’s lack of passion for automobiles contrasted with Tavares, who lives and breathes cars and didn’t hesitate to stake his future and credibility by reviving the Alpine brand against his superior’s advice.

Eleven years later, the former number 1 tries to remain out of sight with several indictments looming and a fantastical escape from Japan. The number 2 now leads the giant Stellantis. This demonstrates that passion and success are not contradictory. And to live every day with the pedal to the metal, Carlos Tavares never misses an opportunity to take the wheel, whether at the historic Monte Carlo, the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, or the Le Mans Classic.

This experienced and talented driver took the wheel of the new Alfa Romeo Junior 280 Veloce at the Caramulo Motorfestival 2024, one of Portugal’s most important automotive events. And what better way to prove a car’s worth than to push it to its limits, which he eagerly did by tackling the legendary “Michelin Historic Hill Climb.” The fully electric sports compact was adorned for the occasion with a special livery produced by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo to pay tribute to the brand’s heritage and to the Portuguese flag of its owner.

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