World premiere: first prototype vehicle equipped with cutting-edge “Intelligent Battery Integrated System” begins real-world testing

A new era in electric powertrain design

The first fully operational battery electric vehicle (BEV) equipped with IBIS is a new Peugeot E-3008, built on the STLA Medium platform. This prototype is the result of several years of design, modelling, and simulation by Stellantis and Saft, with the support of E2-CAD, Sherpa Engineering, and leading French research institutions, including the CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay and the Institut Lafayette.

Since mid-2022, an initial IBIS demonstrator for stationary applications has been operational, validating key technical concepts and generating numerous patents. The transition to a mobile prototype represents a major leap forward in the system’s development.

The concept: integration that simplifies everything

IBIS reimagines the electric powertrain by integrating the inverter and charger functions directly into the battery, regardless of its chemistry or intended application. This architecture supports both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) generation, enabling direct control of the electric machine or the exchange of electrical energy with the grid, while simultaneously powering the vehicle’s 12V network and auxiliary systems.

Key benefits

• Efficiency and performance: Up to a 10% improvement in energy efficiency (WLTC cycle) and a 15% power increase (172 kW versus 150 kW) with the same battery size.

• Weight and space savings: Reduces vehicle weight by approximately 40 kg and frees up to 17 litres of volume, enhancing aerodynamics and design flexibility.

• Faster charging: Initial results indicate a 15% reduction in charging time (e.g. from 7 to 6 hours on a 7 kW AC charger), along with 10% energy savings.

• Simplified maintenance: Facilitates servicing and increases opportunities for second-life battery reuse in both automotive and stationary applications.

IBIS also streamlines maintenance and reduces the need for extensive reconditioning, thereby supporting sustainable second-life use of batteries.

Leadership outlook

Ned Curic, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, Stellantis:

“This project reflects our belief that simplification drives innovation. By rethinking and streamlining the electric powertrain architecture, we make it lighter, more efficient, and more cost-effective. It is precisely this kind of innovation that enables us to deliver higher-quality, more affordable electric vehicles for our customers.”

Hervé Amossé, Executive Vice-President, Energy Storage Systems, Saft:

“The IBIS project is a strong testament to Saft’s leadership in innovation. By integrating IBIS technology into our next-generation applications, we are ushering in a new era of intelligent, flexible, and sustainable energy solutions. Saft continues to lead the way in advanced research, offering long-term, cost-effective solutions tailored to evolving market needs.”

Next steps

Phase 2 of the project was launched in June 2025 with continued support from the French government through the France 2030 programme. The focus is now on real-world trials, which could pave the way for the integration of IBIS technology into Stellantis production vehicles by the end of the decade.

Beyond automotive applications, the IBIS architecture holds strong potential across a wide range of sectors, including rail, aerospace, marine, and data centres, underscoring Stellantis and Saft’s commitment to scalable, sustainable electrification.