The PSA Group has revealed plans for a new electrified eVMP platform (Electric Vehicle Modular Platform) that will underpin its larger vehicles from 2020 onwards as it moves towards a fully electrified line-up.
Highlights
- PSA Group’s future hybrid and electric vehicles to be underpinned by eVMP architecture.
- eVMP platform to form the basis for C- and D-segment sedans and SUVs.
- eVMP-based EVs to have a driving range of up to 650km.
Which platforms currently underpin PSA Group vehicles?
The French giant, whose brands include Citroën, DS, Peugeot and Opel/Vauxhall, currently uses two ‘multi-energy’ platforms: CMP and EMP2. The CMP architecture, for small vehicles, can utilise combustion-engined and electric powertrains, while the EMP2 is designed for ICE-only and plug-in hybrid systems.
How will the upcoming eVMP platform be positioned?
By 2025, PSA says it will shift from these two platforms to two “100 percent electrified” platforms. The first of those will be the eVMP architecture, which will be used for “a wide basis” of C- and D-segment vehicles, including sedans and SUVs. The first vehicle built on the platform, due in 2023, will be a C-segment SUV.
The platform is designed for electric vehicles with a range of between 399-650km, depending on the body, thanks to "60-100kWh of embedded energy" within the wheelbase. PSA says that the platform can also support hybrid powertrains, which will be “offered in certain markets”.
What are the advantages of the new eVMP platform?
According to Groupe PSA, key to the efficiency of the eVMP platform is the optimisation of development and industrialisation costs. It says the eVMP has been developed with “extended carry-over” from the EMP2 platform and can be made on existing plants and production lines to limit investment.
Nicolas Morel, PSA’s head of research and development, said, “This global platform 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.”
PSA is currently in the process of merging with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. It didn't say whether the new eVMP platform would be utilised by FCA brands as part of the PSA-FCA merged group, Stellantis.
What does it mean for PSA Group’s India plans?
The company is yet to make any announcements about its electrification plans for our market. What we do know is that the PSA Group will be debuting its Citroën brand in India with the Citroën C5 Aircross SUV launch in 2021. The large SUV – which will be priced over the Rs 30 lakh mark and rival the Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace in the Indian market – is based on the group’s EMP2 architecture.
The next vehicle from the brand will be a made-for-India C21 compact SUV underpinned by the existing CMP architecture.
Also see:
India-bound Citroën C5 Aircross to get only 2.0 diesel engine
2019 Citroën C5 Aircross review, test drive