SUVs could be on the brink of extinction, says Citroen CEO

The CEO seems convinced there will be some form of regulation or incentive to cut down weights and sizes in the future.

According to a media report, Citroen CEO Vincent Cobee has stated that the rapid transitions towards electrification will put an end to the conventional-shaped SUVs. Cobee said that car designers will increase emphasis on aerodynamics, and "anything high or squarish" will most likely not be considered. He added that the transition to EVs will give rise to what he calls a "post-SUV world".

Cobee further mentioned that aerodynamics isn't too important in ICE-powered vehicles, as brands can simply increase the fuel tank and offer more range. However, a similar high-stance or squarish EV will have an immediate penalty.

He even suggested new methods of vehicle taxation designed to penalise heavier and larger vehicles, further threatening the viability of SUVs. The CEO seems convinced there will be some form of regulation or incentive to cut down weights and sizes in the future. The SUV body style will greatly suffer once car makers decide to produce vehicles weighing less than 2 tonnes and have batteries smaller than 60-70 kWh.

While reducing weight on an EV does help extract more range, it is easier said than done. However, making a low-slung aerodynamic vehicle is relatively easier. Because of this, carmakers could soon start looking at designing cars which sit lower and are more aero-efficient, rather than just trying to reduce the weight on squarish SUVs. He added that improving the aerodynamics or powertrain efficiency of an EV has a far better impact on the range than just reducing its weight.

Source: Autocar UK