During a recent speech at the Stellantis’ Freedom of Mobility Forum, Carlos Tavares, the chief executive of the automotive group, pointed out that current electric vehicles with a range of about 400 km (250 miles) require an additional 500 kg (1,000 lbs) of raw materials compared to conventional internal combustion-powered vehicles. However, Tavares expressed optimism that advancements will reduce the weight of EV battery packs.
“From an environmental standpoint … I don’t think it makes sense [to have such heavy battery packs],” Tavares said, reports Reuters. “ I think over the next decade we’ll be able to reduce the battery pack weight by 50%, hence reducing by 50% the use of additional raw materials against a conventional vehicle.”
Although Tavares did not specify how Stellantis plans to reduce battery pack weight, the conglomerate is making a significant move towards electrification. The company aims to have all-electric vehicles account for 100% of its sales in Europe by the end of the decade, while it expects BEVs to make up 50% of its sales in the United States. Additionally, the company plans to sell 5 million BEVs annually by 2030 and will introduce over 75 BEVs by the end of the decade.
The brand's BEVs will be built on four vehicle platforms: STLA Small, Medium, Large, and Frame. The Frame platform will feature a body-on-frame design. Stellantis is developing three different electric drive modules, two battery cell chemistries, and front, rear, and all-wheel drive configurations. They will also offer EVs with ranges between 500-800 km (300-500 miles).
Source: Reuters
