Pininfarina mulls “skateboard” platform for newer EVs

Following the launch of the Pininfarina Battista (above), the famous Italian design powerhouse has revealed that it plans to expand its full electric model range by introducing an SUV and a sedan, both of which will sit on a brand new modular platform, Automotive News reports.

Company CEO Michael Perschke told the press that the company is having discussions with partners to develop a “skateboard” platform for the new super luxury cars, which are expected to be launched within the next three years.

A skateboard platform is generally defined by three key points; having a low flat battery that is the structural belly of the car, compact motors at either ends or corners of the platform, and having drive-by-wire accelerator, brakes, and steering (removes the need for mounting points). However, Perschke said cooperation with the VW Group is “out of the question” because its PPE platform (also a skateboard type) does not have the right height for the SUV planned by Pininfarina.

The company also revealed that the decision to develop the platform with partners is to keep development costs low, though it could later be offered to other manufacturers as well. The modular platform can accommodate battery sizes from 100 kWh to 125 kWh, which allow up to 600 km of driving range.

“It’s our clear strategic intent to become a significant player in the hypercar and super-luxury segment. We have a very clear intent to not remain a one-hit-wonder,” Perschke said. The target price for the new cars will be between 200,000 to 400,000 euros (RM937k to RM1.87 million).

As for which car will be completed first, Pininfarina said it depends – potential customers will decide which body shape will be implemented first, and they would be shown various designs based on earlier Pininfarina concepts. Which would you like to see first, the SUV or the sedan?