subject: New BMW-Peugeot combination is electric [print this page] New BMW-Peugeot combination is electric New BMW-Peugeot combination is electric
What do you get when you combine fine German engineering with French ingenuity and an environmental conscience? Car aficionados everywhere should be happy to learn about the recent marriage of German auto manufacturer BMW and French car company PSA Peugeot Citroen on a mission to capitalize on the growing market for hybrid and electric cars. According to a recent joint statement, the companies announced that they will be working together to design and manufacture hybrid components. These components will be used by both companies as well as third party auto makers.
The venture, which has been named the BMW Peugeot Citroen Electrification, seeks to bring forth "an open European platform" for the manufacture of various auto components. These components are varied, seeks to bring forth "an open European platform" for the manufacture of various auto components. These components are varied, and include e-machines, generators, battery packs and power electronics. The companies will also be developing the software that is used to run hybrid systems.
The goal of the venture is to structure the European auto industry in the field of hybridization. The two companies hope that manufacturers will outsource to the BMW Peugeot Citroen Electrification, which may help to integrate the supply chain. Both BMW and Peugeot are attempting to match more stringent emission guidelines as well the increased customer demand for efficient cars. Citroen and Peugeot had launched electric cars as recently as last year, however, these vehicles were based on Mitsubishi Motors' Mi-EV platform. The Japanese automaker is a leader in the field of electric vehicles. Other companies in the industry are also making some consolidating moves to create a better front toward manufacturing electric cars. Daimler of Germany recently teamed up with Renault/Nissan in order to develop electric cars and a range of new technologies.
The movement towards hybridization is a popular one. Hybrid electric vehicles, or HEVs, combine a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This results in energy savings, lower emissions, and radically higher gas mileage. The recent "green" movement supports hybridization, as does the everyday wise consumer. BMW and Peugeot Citroen have recognized the positive results of the implementation of hybrid and electric auto manufacturing in today's economy. (Note: if you are interested in BMW Insurance rates in general or for a specific model, why not get a customised quote from Your Cover for your BMW Car Insurance).
The BMW Peugeot Citroen Electrification project, headed up by BMW's current head of purchasing strategy, is set to open operation in the second quarter of this year, although commercial production is not set to start until 2014. The venture will tap into the talents of the current staff of the companies as well as draw in new ideas from outside sources. The companies have not yet released details of the investment and capital structures.
