The merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Groupe PSA is still in the works, but the first achievement is already known. FCA’s future compact cars will be on PSA’s (e) CMP platform.
With its modular platform for compact models, Groupe PSA has a strong foundation for both combustion engine and electric vehicles. Fiat Chrysler sees this as the ideal basis for its own smaller models, according to a door Automotive News intercepted letter from FCA to suppliers. In it, the group explains that it is no longer working on the development of its own compact platform. The (e) CMP base of PSA will become the cornerstone of new compact models from Fiat, Alfa Romeo and possibly also Chrysler. We already know that platform from the Peugeot (e-) 208, Opel Corsa (-e) and also larger cars such as the Peugeot (e-) 2008 and DS 3 Crossback.
The fact that this will happen is a considerable, but expected first step for Stellantis, the group that emerged from the merger. It is also a big boost for Fiat and certainly Alfa Romeo. Obsolete models have been struggling quite a bit in the B segment for these brands and with this already existing and proven foundation, it could probably catch up in the coming years. The ‘FCA’ models coming on the CMP base will roll off the production line in Tychy, Poland, where Fiat has been building the 500 for years. Fiat Chrysler aims to produce 400,000 cars per year on that basis.
Expected models
There are not really detailed statements about Fiats and Alfa Romeo’s future in the compact segment yet. However, a few things have come out recently about what we can expect globally. For example, Fiat speaks of a ‘Tipo model line’ with more of a focus on crossovers. A new Punto is also planned. Given these new plans, the Punto will therefore be placed on the aforementioned PSA basis and we can also expect an electric version. The Tipo is of course a bit higher in the range and will probably be developed on the new (e) VMP platform from PSA. The self-developed new Fiat 500 continues to exist as a legacy from the pre-Stellantis era. For the rest, Fiat is leaving the A-segment.
About Alfa Romeo it shimmered recently that there will indeed be a model on a CMP basis. It is said to be a compact crossover, a smaller version of the car where we have already been given a distant preview in the form of the Tonale Concept. The Tonale Concept is expected to culminate in a crossover on the VMP base.