Steigerung des Modellvolumens einer BEV Plattform durch eine zusätzliche alternative REX Antriebsform

An increasing number of Chinese vehicle manufacturers are currently developing and selling serial plug-in hybrids, also called range extended electric vehicles (REX), alongside pure battery electric (BEV) versions of the same vehicle. REX vehicles have significantly larger battery capacities than regular parallel plug-in hybrids (PHEV), enabling longer electric ranges and a higher electric driving share. Unlike BEV vehicles, REX vehicles have an ICE engine that enables unrestricted mobility even over long distances, eliminating range anxiety. REX vehicles also have potential in the European and American vehicle markets. Surveys show significant consumer interest in the REX concept, especially among consumers who would otherwise buy ICE vehicles. REX vehicles have significantly lower homologated CO2 emissions than ICE vehicles and can therefore aid vehicle manufacturers in meeting CO2 targets. When BEV demand is weak, REX vehicles can also help increase the model volume of a shared platform, as they appeal to a different consumer profile. However, due to strict CO2 targets in the US and the EU, the development of REX powertrains only makes sense for large vehicles, i.e., SUVs in the D and E segments and pickups with high fuel or energy consumption. A subsequent development of a REX variant from a BEV vehicle poses several challenges, in particular the integration of the ICE engine into the front of the vehicle and the exhaust system into the underbody, which leads to conflicts with structural battery concepts. REX vehicles offer a high total range and a high electric driving share in daily operation (about 65%). REX technology is therefore a legitimate transitional solution for large vehicles until battery technology and charging infrastructure are more advanced and BEV vehicles are fully accepted by consumers.