Stellantis will put its first E-Car compact electric vehicle into production within the next 18 months, according to company officials. The parent group of Citroen, Fiat, Peugeot and Vauxhall says it’s responding to growing demand for small, affordable EVs.
The new model will meet the European Commission’s planned E-Car framework – a new vehicle class designed to bridge the gap between standard passenger cars and quadricycles.
This framework takes inspiration from Japan’s kei car regulations. It creates a city-focused class of vehicles that sits between current M1 passenger cars and L7 quadricycles, now called the M1E class.
The system promotes European manufacturing by offering super credits toward corporate CO2 targets for automakers who build vehicles in Europe.
Production Details
Stellantis will build its first E-Car at the Pomigliano d’Arco plant in Italy, where the hybrid Panda currently rolls off the production line.
The company describes the vehicle as an “innovative, affordable” EV developed in the “true tradition of European people’s mobility.” It’s designed to address the rapid contraction of the affordable small car market in recent years.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa said the E-Car concept matches the company’s European heritage in small vehicles.
“Our customers are calling for a revival of small, stylish vehicles, proudly produced in Europe, which are also affordable and environmentally friendly. Stellantis is answering their call with exciting new models for multiple brands.”
Brand Strategy
Details about specific brand models remain under wraps. However, industry sources suggest Citroen may revive the 2CV name for a cheaper A-segment model that would sit below the E-C3.
Fiat has also left room for a “baby” Panda to sit beneath the Grande Panda as part of a planned five-car Panda family.
The new car will sit above quadricycles such as the Fiat Topolino but below traditional compact EVs.
Market Competition
Competition in the electric A-segment will intensify over the coming year. New arrivals include:
- Renault Twingo
- Nissan Pixo
- Volkswagen ID.1
- Smart #2
E-Car class vehicles are expected to sit below these models with smaller batteries, less powerful motors, and restricted physical dimensions. These limitations keep costs down while making them suitable for crowded urban environments.
Dacia has previously hinted at its own E-Car design with the Hipster concept.
The European Commission hasn’t finalized full specifications for the M1E class yet. Officials say they’re aiming to set requirements for a 10-year period to give manufacturers certainty for product planning.
The framework represents Europe’s attempt to create a distinct category of urban-focused electric vehicles that balance affordability with environmental goals.
