New PSA EV platforms could be used across 10 auto brands

The increasingly influential automotive conglomerate that includes Peugeot, Citroen, DS and Opel/Vauxhall has announced plans for two new-generation vehicle platforms for its car and SUV fleet that will support hybrid and battery electric powertrains.

The announcement takes on added significance because the PSA Group is in the process of merging with FCA, which includes Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, RAM and other European and US brands.

The new business will be named Stellantis and become the world’s number four automotive producer. This new electrified Vehicle Modular Platform (eVMP) could eventually underpin millions of vehicles from more than 10 brands across the group.

PSA says battery electric vehicles based on eVMP will have battery sizes ranging from 60kWh to 100kWh and driving ranges between recharges of at least 400km and up to 650km depending on the body and based on the WLTP test cycle.

eVMP will be a modular design that exploits the entire sub-floor for battery area and to save costs will use some existing production sub-assemblies and battery modules.

The new platform is expected to debut in 2023 as the basis for a small SUV.

eVMP replaces the EMP2 platform introduced in 2013, which is suitable for small and medium vehicles using ICE and plug-in hybrid tech only.

It has been employed by PSA for models such as the Peugeot 308 hatch, Citroen C5 Aircross SUV and even some Toyota vans.

Millions of vehicles have been built based on EMP2.

While PSA didn’t detail the other platform that will arrive by 2025 it is expected to replace CMP (Compact Modular Platform), which was launched in 2018.

Designed for mini and small vehicles, CMP already supports battery electric powertrains up to 50kWh.

The recently revealed Peugeot 2008, Citroen e-C4 and Opel Mokka battery electric vehicles are all based on CMP.

Both platforms will be designed to be used globally.

“This global platform [eVMP] will make it possible to offer a range of vehicles that are perfectly respectful of the environment, meeting the changing expectations of our customers and guaranteeing driving pleasure and safety on board, values that are the basis of the Group’s reputation today”, said Nicolas Morel, research and development director at Groupe PSA.

PSA recently distinguished itself by announcing a profit for the first half of 2020 despite the impact of the coronavirus. Many major auto businesses such as Daimler and General Motors have recorded losses within that period. Tesla also made a profit.