"2008 Hybrid Air" Runs on Compressed Air

As previously reported, the HYbrid Air"HYbrid Air" uses a pressure motor that generates rotational force from compressed air, combined with a gasoline engine. This hybrid powertrain is now being showcased in the SUV model based on the 208, 2008"2008".

The internal combustion engine is a lightweight and compact 1.2-liter inline 3-cylinder gasoline engine. It's a state-of-the-art unit featuring a diamond carbon coating on the cylinder interiors to reduce internal friction by 30 percent, along with mechanisms to enhance efficiency such as thermal management and rapid warm-up.

This engine and the pressure motor are connected to an EGC (Electrically Gearbox Control) transmission using planetary gears to transmit power.

The compressed air, one of the power sources, can be filled in two ways. One is by decelerating using the resistance of the compressor instead of the brake pads during braking, and compressing air with that force. This is a replacement of the electric motor's brake energy recovery system with a compressor. The other method is to operate the compressor with the engine to compress air. In either case, the filling is completed in just 10 seconds.

The HYbrid Air system can be adopted without modifying the existing modular platform, and can be implemented without reducing cabin space or the fuel tank. Furthermore, while EVs and electric motor hybrids require highly specialized technology, pressure motors and compressors are widely used industrial products globally, allowing for the application of general engineering techniques for troubleshooting and maintenance. This makes it suitable for global deployment, including in emerging markets.

"208 HYbrid FE" Developed in Cooperation with TOTAL

The "208 HYbrid FE" is a concept model created in collaboration with TOTAL, a French oil and energy company with which Peugeot has had a partnership since 1995. As the name suggests, it is a hybrid, developed with the goal of maximizing environmental consideration without compromising driving pleasure.

The objective was to achieve high environmental performance, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 8.0 seconds while emitting only 49g/km of CO2. To achieve this, the "208"208", equipped with a 1.0-liter engine producing a maximum output of 68ps, has been further refined in terms of aerodynamics, lowering its Cd value compared to the existing 208. Additionally, a reduction of 200kg in vehicle weight, crucial for improving fuel efficiency, was targeted, utilizing composite fiber materials developed by TOTAL's affiliated companies.

The transmission is an EGC (Electronic Gearbox Controlled), and the engine features dedicated thermal management, combustion cycles, reduced friction, and a lightweight cylinder head. It is also equipped with special tires and wheels offering high rolling resistance coefficients.

The name "FE" is said to be an abbreviation for "Fuel Economy," signifying efficient energy use, or "Fun & Emotion," representing driving pleasure.

For both concept cars, only outlines have been provided so far, with details including their exterior appearance yet to be revealed. They will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.