According to a July 10, 2013 report by La Tribune cited by Reuters, General Motors and Peugeot are in discussions about the potential sale of PSA Peugeot-Citroën commercial vans within the US, utilizing GM’s existing dealership network. While the specific models and branding strategies remain undisclosed, this potential partnership follows GM’s existing 7% ownership stake in the French automaker.
Peugeot and GM already collaborate through a joint venture, aimed at reducing costs linked to vehicle development and parts procurement. Despite the economic challenges in Europe, both companies are seeking to broaden their collaboration. Peugeot’s long-term outlook has been somewhat uncertain recently, partly due to the economic climate. On the other hand, GM could benefit from incorporating a contemporary commercial van lineup to sharpen its competitive edge within the North American market, where competition has recently intensified with modern, European-influenced options.
Mercedes-Benz started the high-roof van trend with its Sprinter, and for 2014, Ford has introduced its Transit van alongside the smaller Transit Connect. Meanwhile, Chrysler is leveraging its partnership with Fiat to rebrand the Ducato range of vans as Ram Promaster models. Peugeot already has a comprehensive range of commercial van solutions, including the compact Partner and Bipper models, along with the larger Expert and Boxer models. These are offered in various configurations to serve cargo and passenger transport needs.
In contrast, GM currently offers the older Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana models. However, they recently partnered with Nissan to offer the City Express, a Bowtie’d version of the Japanese automaker’s NV200 small cargo van.
