Until his resignation, Mr. Tavares was one of the most influential people in the global automotive industry.
He had a reputation as a ruthless cost-cutter, first at France’s PSA group and then, after its merger with Fiat Chrysler in 2021, at Stellantis.
He has often made headlines in the UK by questioning the future of Vauxhall’s UK operations, linking it to issues such as Brexit and government plans to force carmakers to build more electric cars.
It is not yet clear whether his departure will affect the planned closure of the Stellantis plant in Luton.
Recently, Mr. Tavares’ position has been undermined by a sharp drop in the company’s sales and profits.
The price of Stellantis shares has fallen by 40% since the beginning of this year.
The company said in September it had begun a search for Mr. Tavares’ successor, but he was expected to remain in his role until at least 2026.
Stellantis said it expects to appoint a new chief executive by the middle of next year.
In the meantime, a new interim executive committee led by the firm’s chairman, John Elkann, will be formed.
