Stellantis unveiled STLA Large, their new, versatile, BEV-native platform meant for a wide range of upcoming D- and E-segment vehicles. The platform enables capabilities including embedded energy, charging efficiency, high-performance vehicle dynamics, and off-road driving. It will first be used in the North American market for Dodge and Jeep vehicles, followed by other brands including Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, and Maserati. There will be eight vehicles launched from 2024-2026.
Stellantis say the platform is engineered with ‘unparalleled’ flexibility to enable vehicle diversity, quality, and customer satisfaction from a base set of componentry, along with robust and cost-efficient manufacturing processes that can be duplicated in multiple assembly plants. Upcoming products will cover a full spectrum of vehicle types—cars, crossovers, and SUVs. Brand-specific product announcements will begin this year.
CEO Carlos Tavares says, “The flexibility and agility of this platform is its hallmark and will be a driving force for our success in the shift to electrification in North America”. That flexibility includes the unibody platform’s propulsion systems, with an option for 400- or 800-volt electric architectures. Three-in-one electric drive modules (motor, power inverter, and gear reduction) can be configured for front-, rear-, or all-wheel-drive. The power inverter uses silicon carbide semiconductor technology to minimize power losses. Propulsion system performance is said to be upgradeable during the vehicle’s lifespan via over-the-air software updates.
STLA Large also supports hybrid and combustion-engine propulsion systems without compromising key vehicle capabilities. The flexibility provides a bridge for customers around the world during the transition to electric propulsion and the development of a robust and widely-available charging network. Design flexibility includes transverse and longitudinal engine mounting configurations to allow for front-, rear-, or all-wheel-drive powertrains.
