PSA Group creates a lightweight electrified vehicle with a 300 km range

The vehicle features an architecture similar to that of a three-wheeler and incorporates a PHEV propulsion system.

The European consortium EU-LIVE “Efficient Urban Light Vehicle”, a grouping of 12 partners among which Groupe PSA is the only car manufacturer, has unveiled a new form of electrified mobility that sits halfway between two- and four-wheeled vehicles. The vehicle is equipped with a PHEV hybrid drivetrain, with two electric motors in the wheels and a combustion engine.

This hybrid vehicle is suitable for any public road and offers the following advantages:

-It can be used without restriction on main roads and motorways with a standard car licence.

-The tilting mechanism allows very manoeuvrable use and gives it a driving experience very similar to that of a three-wheeled scooter. This system is based on hydraulic components and a hydropneumatic suspension.

-The vehicle runs in “zero emissions” mode up to 70 km/h thanks to two electric motors housed in the rear wheels (In Wheel Motors) developed by two of the consortium partners, ELAPHE and BREMBO. The 48V electric battery developed by SAMSUNG SDI can be recharged and recovers energy during braking. The 31 kW single-cylinder PEUGEOT SCOOTER petrol engine takes over on peri-urban journeys at speeds between 70 and 130 km/h. The total range of the lightweight vehicle is 300 km and its top speed is 130 km/h.

-Its compact dimensions (2.4 m x 0.85 m) and its rotating-kinematics doors make it easy to park perpendicular to the pavement and take up little space on the road. The cabin is enclosed and heated, and the presence of a seat belt and an airbag means individual protective equipment (helmet, gloves, waterproof suit…) can be dispensed with.

“The PSA Group is committed to protecting individual freedom of movement. EU-LIVE is an example of this. This new lightweight electrified vehicle enables safe and responsible individual mobility thanks to its zero-emissions mode. We are proud to take part in this European project alongside our fellow partners,” declares Carla Gohin, Director of Development and Advanced Research.