Attack not only in the retro segment! Peugeot scooter of the future

Peugeot Motorcycles: "We are here in a beautiful Parisian townhouse for the static presentation of the New Django. Where is Peugeot Motorcycles headed?"

Laurent Lilti, Global Product, Marketing & Communications Director, Peugeot Motorcycles: "The Peugeot scooter lineup is expanding rapidly. Along with the acquisition of the iconic BSA brand, our new electric scooter brand DAB Motors and Peugeot Motorcycles, the renowned Django model will now stand on its own, without the Peugeot name. This allows us to distinguish our brands and cater to specific customer segments, while also broadening our product range."

Peugeot Scooter: "Let's talk about the next few years: Will the near future be electric or will the internal combustion engine still play a significant role in these plans?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "The combustion engine is not just important, it is essential for us. We believe that electric propulsion systems are currently most suitable for urban environments. However, the reality of life for many Peugeot scooter riders extends beyond that, as many individuals also reside on the outskirts of cities or in rural areas. While we are actively working on electrification, our main focus for the foreseeable future remains on combustion engines."

Peugeot Scooters: "The current Peugeot range includes scooters ranging from 50cc to 400cc. Which segment is the most important in Europe?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "In Europa ist der wichtigste Markt die A1-Klasse, auch wenn wir aggressiv in neue Märkte mit Produkten wie dem XP 400 vordringen wollen, und das hat eine gewisse Priorität."

Poky: "Peugeot Motorcycles produziert und verkauft Produkte in vielen asiatischen Ländern wie China, Vietnam und Indien. Wie unterscheidet sich die Situation in Asien?"

Meine Übersetzung: Poky: "Peugeot Roller produziert und vertreibt Produkte in vielen asiatischen Ländern wie China, Vietnam und Indien. Wie unterscheidet sich die Situation in Asien?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "There are not many differences. The scooters designed for the Asian market share the same platform as those for the European market, but are equipped with 150 cubic centimeters engines to suit the local conditions. However, the Big GT segment (models ranging between 300 and 400 cc) is also gaining significance in Asia."

Agile: "When it comes to scooter riding, Europe is divided into two camps. In the DACH region and further north, there is a season, while in the south, it is ridden all year round. Interestingly, three-wheeled vehicles like the Peugeot Metropolis are much more successful in the south than in northern Europe. Why is that?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "In Städten und Metropolregionen mit Verkehr wie Paris (lacht) haben viele Menschen das Autofahren aufgegeben, weil man einfach nicht vorankommt. Ich habe ein schönes Auto in der Garage, das ich höchstens 7 Mal im Jahr benutze. Viele Fahrer empfinden das genauso und weil (zumindest) in Frankreich dreirädrige Fahrzeuge mit einem Autoführerschein gefahren werden können, wenn sie mehr als 125 Kubikzentimeter haben, sind sie hier so beliebt."

Poky unterbrach: "In rechtlicher Hinsicht ist es in Deutschland und Österreich nicht anders."

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "The second reason for our success is that this offer appeals not only to car drivers, but also to ex-bikers who have left the motorcycle world due to safety concerns. The third bike inspires confidence and gets people back in the saddle."

Peugeot Scooters: "The second reason for our success is that this model attracts not only car drivers, but also former motorcyclists who have left the motorcycle world due to safety concerns. This scooter instills confidence and encourages people to get back on the road."

Peugeot Scooter: "Let's focus on the Django. With its TFT display and modern, more powerful liquid-cooled engine, the New Django is departing from the retro concept. Is this a farewell to the retro trend, and will the New Django eventually replace the current Django, or will retro style continue to be significant beyond 2024?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "Retro is of great importance, and the variety available in the market is only increasing. In the scooter segment, an Italian brand currently dominates, a position we aim to challenge. Peugeot, with its extensive history in two-wheelers dating back to 1898, is well-equipped for this task. The predecessor of the Django model dates back to 1955! The new Django model expands the Django range, while the Django (Classic) will also meet the Euro 5+ standards and is set to remain a key product in the segment for the foreseeable future."

Peugeot Roller: "Today, alongside the different Django models, we had the opportunity to get a glimpse into the future. The SPx concept pays homage to a classic in Peugeot's history: the 103, which can be seen as the French counterpart to the Austrian Puch Maxi. This concept is rumored to be nearing series production and will be powered by electricity. Could urban transportation soon be dominated by e-scooters?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "As you approach the heart of the city, the likelihood of only electric vehicles being permitted to enter increases. In these urban areas, compact vehicles with swappable batteries and shorter ranges will suffice. However, if you plan to venture beyond the city limits, a scooter with fixed batteries is essential. For an adequate range, the battery capacity should be a minimum of 10, preferably 14 kWh. Batteries of this size are costly and heavy, making vehicles equipped with them unlikely to be priced below 10,000 euros.

We are in the process of developing such a product. While some competitors, like BMW with the CE04, are already offering similar options, realistically they only achieve around 100 km, which may not meet customer expectations. We are focusing on technological advancements that are more likely to align with customer needs, but it will take another 4-5 years before they are market-ready."

Peugeot Roller XP400GT: "The top model in the Peugeot scooter lineup is currently the XP400 or XP400GT. While I had the opportunity to observe the vehicle, I did not have the chance to test ride it. I was surprised by its weight of 231 kg when fully equipped. In comparison, competitors like the Honda ADV 350 are nearly 50 kg lighter. Why is that?"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "The Peugeot Roller has been designed to be the most durable and user-friendly vehicle in its class. Peugeot engineers have put in a lot of effort and time to create an incredibly robust vehicle with advanced technology. The frame can withstand a one-meter drop without any issues, as we have tested. Just hop on and ride away.

However, the higher weight serves another purpose: if you take a look at the rear suspension, you'll notice an innovative system that provides 40 mm more suspension travel than the standard scooter. The Peugeot Roller's twin-sided swingarm is connected to a cross strut via a U-shaped linkage that acts on the shock absorber. Most of this mechanism is hidden behind the right side panel, but the results speak for themselves - the Peugeot Roller is stable on the track without feeling heavy. It also boasts genuine off-road capabilities.

I only consider the ADV 350 as partial competition, as it still shows its Forza roots, even with its adventure-oriented appearance. It also lacks 50 cubic meters and over 7 hp of power. In contrast, the Peugeot Roller is a true blend of motorcycle and scooter."

Peugeot Scooter: "I am looking forward to the opportunity to test ride the XP400 soon. We are eagerly awaiting the test! Thank you for the interview!"

Laurent Lilti, Peugeot Motorcycles: "Immer gerne bereit zu helfen! Vielen Dank auch!"