PSA Peugeot Citroën has decided to conduct an in-depth overhaul of its small engine line-up, in a project that is just as important as its HDi diesel engine initiative. This new family of three-cylinder engines will be more efficient and cleaner, while maintaining performance in terms of power and torque.

More compact and delivering 68 to 82 horsepower (hp), the new three-cylinder engines will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 25% compared with today's four-cylinder engines. Drivers will see their energy consumption reduced by approximately 1.5ltr/100Km while maintaining optimal driving enjoyment. The new engines will be fitted on the future Peugeot 208, to be launched in first-quarter 2012, with CO2 emissions of just 104g/Km for its 1.2-litre VTI 82hp version and 99g/Km for its 1.0-litre VTi 68hp version.

The Group has invested EUR 717m* in the project, launched in early 2008, of which EUR 460m* for research and development. In all, 52 patents have been filed and 1,200 engineers and technicians have been involved. A total of EUR 257m* was allocated for capital spending projects in eastern France, mainly at the Trémery plant.

In the start-up phase since September 2011, the new EB engine will be produced at Trémery. The project has a potential annual production capacity of 640,000 engines and will create 500 jobs. Brought on stream in 1979, Trémery is arguably one of the world’s most prominent diesel engine production facilities with a total output of 35m* units. The plant currently has 3,720 employees.

In a second phase, the new engines designed in France will be produced in Latin America and China to meet local needs and will represent a key asset for the Group's international expansion.

The new three-cylinder petrol engine, which integrates the most advanced environmental technology, will enable PSA Peugeot Citroën to strengthen its commitment towards low-carbon-emission vehicles.