PSA Peugeot Citroën and Mitsubishi Motors Start Feasibility Study on EV Cooperation

17 June 2008

PSA Peugeot Citroën and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) have agreed to start a feasibility study on an extended technical collaboration in the field of electric powertrains with an immediate focus on the development, manufacture and use of a powertrain for small urban electric vehicles. The likely advent of an EV partnership between the two was earlier reported by the Nikkei. (Earlier post.)

To step up the viability of electric vehicle projects and accelerate market introduction, the companies agreed that cooperation on electric vehicle development and production would be mutually beneficial. The feasibility study project will run over several months.

This new agreement reinforces the bonds between the two manufacturers who, a week ago, laid the first stone of their joint Russian factory in Kaluga (180 km south west of Moscow).

For PSA Peugeot Citroën, this agreement lies within the scope of its Strategy and Ambition plan covering 2010-2015. With an extensive knowledge of electric vehicles, PSA Peugeot Citroën is the largest global manufacturer of electric vehicles to date with more than 10,000 units sold. PSA Peugeot Citroën will bring to this project its expertise in the field of electric powertrains.

For MMC, this agreement is consistent with its electric vehicle strategy. MMC, aiming to become one of the leading car manufacturers of electric vehicles, has prioritized development of the i MiEV  electric vehicle for introduction to the market. MMC will launch the electric vehicle in the Japanese domestic market in 2009 and is considering a possible future introduction to Europe and the US.

In addition, MMC has set up Lithium Energy Japan, a Joint Venture founded in partnership with GS Yuasa and Mitsubishi Corporation, which is to supply large capacity and high performance lithium ion batteries for the i MiEV. (Earlier post.)