What's the news?
Peugeot has announced a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) drivetrain, which it will slot into its 3008 and 508/508 SW ranges.
The petrol-electric PHEVs are all of interest, of course, but the 3008 in particular is a high-performance model - it pairs a 200hp PureTech engine (likely the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol already used in the range) with two 80kW electric motors, one front and rear, delivering a combined maximum output of 300hp. This is sent to all corners via Hybrid4 all-wheel drive, meaning the 3008 PHEV will be capable of 0-100km/h in just 6.5 seconds - but it will have an all-electric range of 50km on the WLTP cycle, thanks to a 13.2kWh lithium-ion battery.
The 508 PHEVs, meanwhile, team the 180hp PureTech 1.6-litre engine with a single 80kW (110hp) electric motor, for a maximum quoted output of 225hp - the same as the range-topping GT model already possesses.
Peugeot says the new hybrid system is based on a 300-volt Li-ion battery system, with capacity of between 11.8- and 13.2kWh. New driving modes include full EV zero-emissions and four-wheel drive on the Hybrid4, as well as Sport, Comfort and Hybrid settings. Regenerative braking harvests otherwise-wasted kinetic energy and Peugeot is claiming charging times of less than two hours, using a 6.6kW/32-amp Wallbox.
All Peugeot PHEV models gain the e-EAT8 electric efficient eight-speed automatic transmission, which is unique to the hybrids, and their classy i-Cockpit infotainment systems will feature new screens that display crucial hybrid running gear information to the driver, such as electricity/fuel consumption, electric gauge level and available remaining full EV range.
While the 300hp 3008 will top the billing, it will only be available in full GT trim. A lesser 'plain' Hybrid model, with the same 225hp drivetrain as the 508 PHEV, will join the SUV's range soon after. All Peugeot PHEVs are due to go on sale this autumn.
Anything else?
Laurent Blanchet, Peugeot's product director, said: "The Peugeot Plug-in Hybrid engines are a unique opportunity for the brand to complement the powerful ranges of the 3008 SUV and the all-new 508 and 508 SW. They give our customers the opportunity to buy a powerful 3008 SUV AWD or a 508 (Fastback or SW) that is efficient and provides improved sensations."