With the Groupe PSA LCV brands Peugeot, Citroën, now including Opel and Vauxhall, it is the confirmed leader from far (+9 pts vs the second one) in the Light Commercial Vehicle sector with ca. 25% market share; In the motorhome market, the Groupe PSA is in second position with a market share of more than 15% and it is developing its commitment to this sector and planning to continue to grow its market share. We visited the largest engines plant of the Groupe PSA near Metz in eastern France to see one of its latest engines in production, and to learn more about its latest developments for the motorhome sector.
Words John Rawlings
The Groupe PSA has achieved the strongest growth in the motorhome market for the last four years, and is very focused on developing what it offers the leisure vehicle sector, such as new, more efficient engines, an enhanced free Camping-Car Assistance service, an Alpine satellite navigation system as a factory option. In addition, with proactive marketing and PR campaigns, the Groupe PSA is actively pursuing greater awareness and growth in the motorhome sector. The Citroën Spacetourer/Jumper (Dispatch) is already proving a successful base vehicle for campervan conversions in Europe, with sales increasing by over 70% last year. This growth in popularity has been supported by its appearance at motorshows and events across Europe (including Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, Geneva Motor Show, IAA Frankfurt and others). Other Groupe PSA initiatives include a Rip Curl Concept based on the Citroën SpaceTourer Campster by Pössl, and a retro Citroën Jumper Type H WildCamp campervan, converted in Italy by Caselani Automobili.
New engines
Any Peugeot or Citroën campervan or motorhome you see in Europe, and beyond, is most likely to have an engine and gearbox that was produced at the PSA Group plants at Trémery and Metz in the east of France, close to Luxembourg and Germany.
The PSA engine factory in Trémery has 3,500 employees who produce 7,000 units a day – that’s nearly one every 26 seconds, and over 1.5 million a year. This currently consists of PureTech petrol engines and BlueHDi diesel engines. The Metz plant has a further 1,500 employees producing gearboxes.
A new engine has just started production at Trémery. To give it its full name, the new DW12 RU engine is a 2188 cm³, four-cylinder 2.2 BlueHDi diesel unit with the latest generation Euro 6d engine technology. It requires servicing every 50,000 km (30,000 miles) or two years, and all versions have a variable geometry turbo, 220A alternator and Start-Stop systems as standard for greater efficiency. The timing belt needs to be changed every 10 years, instead of 5 years for its direct competitor.
Power outputs have increased compared to the previous DW10 FU, 2.0 Blue HDi engine from 130 and 160 PS to 140 and 165 PS, respectively. The 140 PS version produces 340 Nm, while the 165 PS model increases its torque slightly from 350 to 370 Nm at only 2000 rpm.
It is initially being fitted to Groupe PSA premium cars and commercial vehicles, which will ensure there will always be good access to servicing and parts, and is expected to arrive in motorhomes very soon.
The other good news, particularly for the motorhome market, is that a 4×4 Dangel transmission is available for the 140 and 165 PS versions of the new engine. Unlike other competitors, the 4×4 is selectable, so is more efficient as it is not permanently in operation. A Poclain reinforced motricity is available as well for both engines.
Alpine navigation system dedicated to motorhomes as a factory option
To underline its commitment to the motorhome sector, and to streamline ordering, lead times and handling costs for manufacturers or dealers, the Groupe PSA is introducing a new, factory-fitted Alpine satellite navigation system that has been developped specifically for motorhomes. For example, it has been designed to calculate routes that avoid low bridges or roads that are too small or narrow. As you’d expect, its XXL 23cm colour screen with split display is fully integrated into the dashboard and can be used by the driver using OEM remote controls on the steering wheel. Its maps are updated for three years free of charge. It also includes a rear camera compatibility, millions of POIs and can connect two phones via Bluetooth. It is also compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for a convenient use of smartphone applications. It benefits from the OEM assistance and its warranty is covered by the Peugeot and Citroën repairer network all over Europe.
Major advantages for the motorhome dealers:
⁃ No order, no stock, no handling costs and no risk of theft
⁃ No extra lead time because of the installation for the final customer
The new enhanced Camping-Car Assistance from the Groupe PSA
The service still covers 55 countries (including Europe, Eurasia and North Africa), simply by calling an international toll free number. Its key features include roadside assistance from a qualified mobile workshop or towing to the nearest dealer (if required), a courtesy car, travel and hotel expenses, a cash advance (if required) and the choice of repatriation to their home address or an onward journey to their next destination. Owners of Peugeot or Citroën-based motorhomes now have even more peace of mind as Groupe PSA has improved its free Camping-Car Assistance roadside recovery package standard on all new vehicles. The 2 novelties from early 2019 are:
it will be renewed for 12 months free of charge, if the vehicle is serviced at any of over 13,000 repairers in the Peugeot (for the Boxer) and Citroën (for the Jumper) network in Europe
it now covers still free of charge the non-automotive part of the motorhome conversion: phone assistance for any question about the living part of the motorhome (e.g. kitchen, heating, …)
