Stellantis & France's Qinomic Plan to Electric Retrofit Light Commercial Vehicles

Stellantis N.V. and Qinomic, a French high-tech company that specialises in sustainable solutions for mobility, are partnering to convert internal combustion engine light commercial vehicles (LCVs) to electric drivetrain, while ensuring OEM quality and specifications, such as safety, durability, and type approval, are maintained. Successful completion of this joint development in 2023 and positive customer feedback on the demo cars’ performance will lead to implementation and commercialisation starting in France in 2024.

The electric retrofit solution aims to create an affordable option that meets customer needs to extend the life of their vehicles and continue business activities while accessing low emissions zones (LEZ) in cities.

Stellantis says electric retrofitting is both a sustainable and affordable solution for customers willing to switch to zero emissions and to reduce their total cost of ownership, while keeping their vehicles.

Extending vehicle life and usage is at the heart of the Stellantis Circular Economy Business Unit, who is leading the initiative in collaboration with the Commercial Vehicle Business Unit and the Stellantis Ventures Studio.

Alison Jones, Stellantis Senior Vice President, Circular Economy Business Unit, says: “I am delighted that Stellantis is working with Qinomic on this development in retrofit technology. This innovation gives our professional customers the choice to convert their current vans to electric, extend their vehicle’s life and meet legislative and mobility requirements.”

“We are excited about this new strategic partnership with Stellantis,” comments Frédéric Strady, Co-founder and CEO of Qinomic. “It is an important step in Qinomic’s development, which will enable us to finalize and implement some of the innovative technical solutions we are developing for the retrofit industry.”

"Retrofitting technology will reinforce Stellantis’ leadership in zero emission mobility solutions for professional customers, complementing our full electrified van range,” adds Xavier Peugeot, Stellantis Senior Vice President, Commercial Vehicle Business Unit.

“In a market boosted by last-mile demand, city access restrictions will soon require recent LCV owners to look for a solution to convert to zero emissions,” states Eric Laforge, Stellantis Vice President, Enlarged Europe Light Commercial Vehicles. “Retrofitting technology like this will enable Stellantis to support this trend.”

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