A World First: Diesel Hybrids in the Lineup

First, the 508 RXH, equipped with the "Hybrid4" system found in the 3008 Hybrid4 launched in the European market last year, demands attention. This system, the world's first to combine a diesel engine and an electric motor, features a 4WD system that drives the front and rear wheels with different power units. It's a parallel hybrid where a 2.0-liter HDi FAP turbo diesel engine powers the front wheels, and an electric motor drives the rear. The system output, with acceleration boost from the motor's assistance, reaches 147kW (200ps). While maximum torque figures were not announced, it's presumed to be the same unit as the 3008 Hybrid4, estimated at around 500Nm (300Nm from the engine + 200Nm from the motor).

508 RXH

Debut in Spring 2012

Fuel economy is an impressive 4.0 L/100km (25.0 km/L) and CO2 emissions are 99g/km in the European combined cycle mode, demonstrating excellent environmental performance. Driving modes include ZEV mode (zero-emission mode) with the engine off, as well as Automatic, Sport, and 4WD. Considering European road conditions, it's highly likely that its real-world fuel efficiency will surpass that of hybrids using gasoline engines.

The 508 RXH is scheduled for release in spring 2012, and according to Peugeot, it will be positioned as a distinct model from the regular 508 range. It aims to be a flagship for Peugeot, embodying advanced diesel-hybrid technology. With a luxurious trim, an aggressive front-end design, a new body color exclusive to this model, and increased ride height compared to the base 508, it boasts a more distinctive design. While pricing has not been revealed, the incorporation of an advanced and costly system suggests it will be the most expensive model in Peugeot's current lineup.

Additionally, Peugeot will exhibit a limited edition of the 508 RXH at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This "Carrion Brown" model, featuring an Alcantara leather interior, will be limited to 300 units, each individually numbered. Pre-orders for driving experiences will be available online from the show's opening. The concept of V2H (Vehicle-to-Home), where batteries in EVs and PHVs supply electricity to homes as storage, is gaining attention. At OPENERS, we refer to such vehicles asSocial Network Vehicles (SNVs). We hope that Peugeot's diesel hybrid will also be equipped with such functionality.

A Futuristic Minivan with French Flair: HX1

Another concept car worth noting is the HX1. It's a futuristic minivan, a sportier interpretation of the recently announced Citroën DS5, capable of seating six people.

"HX1"

According to Peugeot, "numerous aerodynamic movable parts are designed with speed in mind," resulting in a very low vehicle height for its 4.93-meter length and an excellent drag coefficient (CD) of 0.28. Opening the four doors, which swing upward and outward like butterfly wings, reveals an interior that blends natural materials with high-tech features. The seating is a modular "4+2" configuration, allowing the driver to adjust the driving position according to conditions.

A 2.2-liter HDi engine powers the front wheels, combined with an electric motor integrated into the rear axle, delivering a system output of 220kW (299ps). Environmental performance is exceptional, with fuel economy at 3.2 L/100km (31.25 km/L) and CO2 emissions at 83g/km. Furthermore, the ZEV mode, operating solely on electric power, offers a range of 30km.

Three More Electric Drive Models

In addition to these two vehicles, Peugeot will also showcase the 3008 Hybrid4 with its Hybrid4 system and the simpler e-HDi at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The e-HDi system combines a 1.6-liter HDi engine with a reversible alternator that provides an idling stop function. It also features a regenerative braking system to supplement the idling stop and a hybrid battery to supply additional power during startup. Adopted in the 508 and the new 308 since early 2011, this next-generation idling stop system improves fuel economy by nearly 15% in the Urban Drive Cycle. It is scheduled for installation in the 3008, 5008, and Partner later this year.

Also on display will be the iOn, Peugeot's latest generation of all-electric city cars designed for businesses and individuals. Powered by a 48kW (65ps) electric motor using a lithium-ion battery, it achieves a top speed of 130km/h and a range of 150km. Having garnered numerous awards in Europe, it has attracted significant attention, with over 2,000 orders recorded by the end of June 2011. Furthermore, Peugeot will showcase a variety of electric motor-driven vehicles, including the EX1, a two-seater roadster boasting a system output of 254kW (345ps) from two electric motors, and the e-Vivacity electric scooter.

iOn

With Peugeot achieving record global sales of 1,091,000 units in the first half of 2011, we can expect to see continued aggressive strategies from the company.