Stellantis prepares for all possibilities

Stellantis praises flexibility as one of the most important features of the new vehicle platform with the simple name "Stellantis Architecture" (STLA). The STLA frame is initially intended to propel large SUVs and light trucks with a range extender drive to long ranges. However, it is also suitable for pure battery-electric drive, use with fuel cells, later for hybrid drives and ultimately also for combustion engines.

At a press presentation today, Group CEO Carlos Tavares expressed his conviction that Stellantis offers "an uncompromising solution for buyers who may still be hesitant to try out their first electric car" with the STLA frame. The platform is likely to have preniers in Jeep or Ram.

The dimensions, which can be adapted to the different vehicle lengths of the models, also speak in favor of the entry into the large and larger vehicles. The length ranges from 5.50 to 5.94 meters, while the width is around 2.10 meters. This includes wheelbases between 3.14 and 3.69 meters. The ground clearance is between 17 and 26 centimetres; the maximum tire diameter is 32.8 inches to 33 inches. The towing capacity should be up to 6.35 tons and the payload up to 1250 kilograms. In addition, fording depths of 61 centimeters can be achieved.

In addition to the 1100 kilometers for the drive with range extender (REEV), Stellantis specifies a range of 800 kilometers for the battery electric vehicle (BEV). A liquid-cooled battery with a capacity of 159 kWh to 200 kWh is planned as the energy source. However, the concept is also designed for new storage systems. In the BEV constellation, an 800-volt DC fast charge with 350 kW can extend the range by 100 kilometers in ten minutes. With the range extender, fast charging with 400 volts and 175 kW is possible. A range of 80 kilometers can then be recharged in ten minutes.

Vehicles with STLA frames have a bidirectional charging function. This means that their batteries not only absorb electricity, they can also release it, for example to charge another vehicle or to supply a house.

The platform includes an electric drive unit with outputs of up to 250 kW (340 hp) each for the all-wheel drive. This should enable acceleration of 4.4 seconds for the sprint to 60 mph (just under 100 km/h). (aum)