Stellantis: future interiors with Chinese technologies

DongFeng Peugeot Citroën has taken a bold decision, calling on the Chinese equipment supplier Ecarx to equip its future vehicles of next-generation smart cockpit technology. This decision marks a significant development in the Chinese automotive landscape, where technological innovation continues to make its way into all facets of the industry, along with the electric car.

The DongFeng Peugeot Citroën group (under the fold of Stellantis), operating as DPCA, has chosen the Ecarx E02 intelligent cockpit module for several of its flagship models. This strategic decision has been implemented on vehicles already sold in China, such as the Citroën Tianyi (also known as the C5 Aircross), the Peugeot 4008 SUV and the extended wheelbase version of the Peugeot 508. These models, which went into production in August 2023, are now equipped with technologies from Ecarx.

Stellantis (almost) partners with Geely

Ecarx, founded in 2017 by Ziyu Chen and Li Shufu, the auto magnate behind Chinese group Geely, has quickly made its mark in the auto parts industry. Geely, which owns several well-known car brands in China and has stakes in automakers including Volvo, Polestar, Lynk & Co, Smart and Lotus, played an essential role in the development and the rise of Ecarx.

Ecarx’s expertise spans a multitude of technological fields, with solutions ranging from SoCs (system-on-chips) associated with 4G to advanced electronic management. These various technological solutions include navigation, telematics, facial recognition and voice assistants. Currently, more than 5.2 million vehicles in circulation worldwide use the solutions developed by Ecarx.

Chinese equipment manufacturers to conquer Europe?

By opting for Ecarx to equip its future models, DongFeng Peugeot Citroën is positioning itself as a pioneer in the adoption of advanced automotive technologies in China. This collaboration also underlines the evolution of the Chinese industrial landscape, where equipment manufacturers are now carving out a prominent place alongside traditional manufacturers and battery suppliers.

As the Chinese automotive market continues to evolve rapidly, observers’ attention is turning to these new players, such as Ecarx. Advancements like these hold promise for the future of mobility, both in China and globally, and should undoubtedly be watched closely by automotive industry professionals. It remains to be seen whether these technologies will also arrive in the European models of Stellantis.

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