Renault design chief predicts a resurgence of multi-passenger vehicles.
In a surprising turn of events, the people carrier or multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) market is set to make a significant comeback in the family car segment. This resurgence is largely driven by the transition to electrification and the pursuit of efficiency, as highlighted by Renault's design boss, Gilles Vidal.
For years, MPVs, once a significant player in the European market, have been overshadowed by the rise of SUVs. However, the advent of electric vehicle (EV) technology is changing the game. The new packaging opportunities offered by EV "skateboard" architectures allow for better space utilization and efficiency, making MPVs a practical and efficient family car choice once again.
The past decline of MPVs can be attributed to the allure of SUVs, which, despite similar engine and weight characteristics, were more desirable. However, electrification lifts many of these constraints, paving the way for a revival of MPVs.
In the luxury and all-electric MPV sector, models like the Zeekr 009 are gaining traction, demonstrating strong sales in markets such as Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. The Zeekr 009 combines luxury, advanced technology, and electric powertrains to redefine the people mover segment, indicating growing consumer interest in premium electric MPVs.
In emerging markets like India, while SUVs dominate the passenger vehicle market, there is growing demand for MPVs alongside SUVs. This suggests a diversified family car market where people carriers remain relevant. The expansion of MPV model line-ups contributes to rising sales, reinforcing the segment’s resilience and potential growth.
Renault is also jumping on the bandwagon with the unveiling of the Renault Emblème concept. This new vehicle, due in production as the first of a new-generation electric car line-up, is described as a "morphing" of SUV and MPV design with a raised ride height and sleeker profile compared to Renault's current SUVs. The Renault Emblème concept is expected to have equivalent habitability and roominess to current SUVs, offering the best of both worlds.
Car manufacturers are striving to make their vehicles as efficient as possible and are exploiting the packaging freedoms of EV 'skateboard' architecture. Gilles Vidal predicts that SUVs might become slightly lower and more aerodynamic in the future to improve efficiency, following suit with the trend already observed in the industry.
The comeback of MPVs, if it occurs, is predicted to be due to the advantages of electric vehicles in terms of efficiency and packaging. While SUVs may continue to dominate the market, the rise of electrification could bring about a renaissance for the MPV segment, offering families a spacious, efficient, and stylish alternative.
[Image: Renault Emblème concept]
Sources: [1] Autocar (2022) Renault Emblème concept: MPV-SUV crossover previews new electric car line-up [2] Electrek (2021) Zeekr 009 electric MPV shows strong sales in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia [3] Carscoops (2021) Zeekr 009: a luxury electric MPV with advanced technology and premium features [4] Financial Express (2021) MPV segment in India: growing demand and expanding model line-ups boost sales
The upcoming revival of MPVs could potentially be fueled by the advantages of electric vehicles, such as efficiency and packaging, as predicted by Renault's design boss, Gilles Vidal. Consequently, the luxury electric MPV market, like the Zeekr 009, demonstrates growing consumer interest and strong sales in various markets.
The renewed focus on efficiency in the automotive industry, as seen in the transition to electrification and the pursuit of aerodynamic designs, is expected to drive a renaissance for the MPV segment, offering families a spacious, efficient, and stylish alternative to SUVs.
