Stellantis, the multinational automotive manufacturing corporation, has initiated the production of the Peugeot e-208 on a small scale at its facility near Zaragoza, as reported by Spanish media sources. The e-208 model was previously manufactured at the Trnava plant in Slovakia but has now been relocated to Zaragoza, where the Opel Corsa is also assembled.
In Spain, the production of the e-208 will commence in limited numbers, with plans for full-scale production expected to begin in September or October. Reports suggest that the relocation was necessitated by the allocation of new models to the Trnava plant, leaving no room for the e-208. While the combustion engine version continues to be produced in Kenitra, Morocco, Stellantis chose Zaragoza as the new production site for the electric version. It is worth noting that the Opel Corsa Electric, which shares similar technology, is already being manufactured there. This strategic move coincides with the upcoming facelift for both models.
The e-208, which made its debut in 2019, has already undergone an initial update by Stellantis in 2021, increasing its range. The latest update, which includes a transition to a new drive generation, mirrors similar changes made across numerous Stellantis models. The previous 100 kW electric motor from Vitesco Technologies will be replaced by a 115 kW electric motor from the Stellantis-Nidec joint venture. Additionally, the battery capacity will be enhanced from 50 kWh to 54 kWh using the latest cell technology. The new e-208 model equipped with the 115 kW variant boasts a range of up to 400 kilometers in the WLTP cycle.
In addition to the model relocation, there are reports that the Spanish government is currently engaged in negotiations with Stellantis regarding the allocation of the STLA Small electric platform for the company’s Spanish plants located in Madrid, Vigo, and Zaragoza. Local media sources have covered these discussions. It is worth noting that the second generation of the e-CMP platform will serve as a transitional solution until 2025 for passenger cars in the A, B, and C segments. Subsequently, the new STLA Small platform, set to enable electric vehicles (BEVs) with ranges of at least 500 kilometers, will be implemented from 2026 onwards.
Simultaneously, French automotive portal L’Argus has reported that the forthcoming Lancia Ypsilon, including its all-electric variant, will also be produced in Zaragoza. Stellantis has announced the market launch of the Lancia Ypsilon electric version in June 2024, incorporating several design elements from the Pu+Ra HPE concept.
