Stellantis is reportedly considering extending the life of its diesel engines by adapting them to future Euro7 standards, despite the forced march towards electrification. The decision comes as the European Union pushes manufacturers to electrify their ranges to meet increasingly stringent emissions quotas. Demand for diesel vehicles, although much lower than in the past, remains strong, particularly for commercial vehicles and those with high mileage. This situation has led Stellantis to reassess its strategy and consider extending the production of certain diesel engines and even introducing hybrid versions.
The European Union and energy transition
The European Union is committed to an ambitious energy transition, aiming to reduce CO₂ emissions and promote cleaner technologies. Car manufacturers are therefore being encouraged to electrify their product ranges, with increasingly stringent CO However, sales of electric cars are not growing as fast as expected. There are several reasons for this: the high cost of electric vehicles, the lack of charging infrastructure in certain regions and concerns about battery life.
At the same time, demand for diesel vehicles remains strong, especially among professionals and high-mileage drivers. Diesel engines offer better energy efficiency over long distances and lower running costs than petrol engines. In view of this continuing demand, still estimated at 1.3 million vehicles per year, Stellantis has decided to re-establish half a team in Rennes to assemble diesel C5 Aircrosses, for which demand is growing strongly. This decision illustrates the Group's desire to respond to current market needs while preparing for the future.
An upgrade to Euro 7 standards?
As a result of these findings, Stellantis is considering extending the life of its diesel engines by upgrading them to meet future Euro 7 standards. The group notes that there is still a demand for this type of engine, despite the trend towards electrification. The 1.5 BlueHDi and 2.2 MultiJet diesel engines, which were originally scheduled to be phased out, would have their production extended until 2030. This decision will allow Stellantis to comply with legal requirements while maintaining a range in line with market needs.
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine, produced at Stellantis' Metz-Trémery plant in France, was launched in 2017 and was initially scheduled to be phased out in 2025. However, a technical update is expected to allow it to remain in production until 2030, subject to Euro 7 compliance. This standard, which will come into force on 29 November 2026 for all new homologated models, will impose stricter emission limits. Stellantis will use this update to improve the reliability of these engines and address issues experienced by some users.
Meanwhile, the 2.2 MultiJet engine is being produced at the Pratola Serra plant in Italy, initially for commercial vehicles. Its production is also expected to be extended until the end of the decade, with an update planned for 2027. This extension will affect vehicles such as the Citroën Jumper, Peugeot Boxer and Opel Vivaro, which will benefit from a facelift at that time. Stellantis is even considering offering a new variant of this engine for cars, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a competitive diesel range.
Towards hybrid diesel engines?
Stellantis could go even further by offering hybrid diesel engines. According to some rumours, the group is considering equipping these engines with the eDCT6 transmission currently used for petrol engines. This solution would reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions while offering better performance. If this option is implemented, it could mean the return of diesel engines to models such as the Berlingo and Citroën Spacetourer, which currently offer only electric powertrains.
Hybrid diesel engines combine a diesel combustion engine with an electric motor. This technology reduces CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption, while offering increased range compared to 100% electric vehicles. Several German manufacturers, such as BMW, Audi and Mercedes, have already successfully launched hybrid diesel models, particularly in SUVs and high-end cars. By exploring this avenue, Stellantis could offer an interesting alternative to high mileage drivers looking for a greener solution without sacrificing the range offered by diesel engines.
In addition, Stellantis has reportedly signed an agreement with Tesla to purchase CO₂ credits, which could also facilitate the return of diesel. This strategy demonstrates the Group's ability to adapt to market conditions and customer expectations while pursuing its electrification objective. By purchasing CO₂ credits, Stellantis can offset the emissions of its thermal vehicles and thus comply with European regulations. This flexibility allows it to maintain a diversified offer to meet the different needs of its customers.
Since the departure of Carlos Tavares, Stellantis has been in the midst of a transformation. The possible return of diesel engines is another example. While remaining committed to electrification, the group is adapting to customer needs and the pace of the market. This flexibility allows it to avoid losing sales while pragmatically preparing for the future. By extending the life of its diesel engines and considering hybrid versions, Stellantis is demonstrating its ability to adapt to changing market conditions while pursuing its environmental goals. This balanced approach may well be the key to success in a rapidly changing automotive sector.
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