Opel has announced that its Rüsselsheim Engineering Centre has taken on the global responsibility of developing the next generation of four-cylinder petrol engines for all PSA Group brands – itself, Peugeot, Citroën, DS Automobiles and Vauxhall.
The German automaker says the next generation of four-cylinder engines will be “optimised for operation in combination with electric motors” and will be used in the drivetrain of hybrid systems. Market introduction is scheduled for 2022.
Its engineers are developing the new generation of engines using the current PSA Group 1,6-litre four-cylinder PureTech units are a starting point. The new engines will be developed to meet the future emission standards of three major markets: China, Europe and North America.
Opel promises that the new power units (which will feature direct-injection, turbocharging and variable valve control) will be highly efficient and deliver low fuel consumption and low CO2 values.
“Rüsselsheim already had global responsibility for engine development when we were still part of General Motors. With the development of the new generation of four-cylinder petrol engines, we can exploit one of our key competencies. The economic direct-injection, in combination with hybrid technology, will consolidate the strong position of Groupe PSA in lowering CO2 emissions,” said Christian Müller, Opel’s managing director engineering.
In addition, the engineering team in Rüsselsheim will also lead the development of light commercial vehicles for the entire group.