New 308: 70% of Peugeot models electric this year

THE new Peugeot 308 (pix, left) will offer two rechargeable hybrid engines on its saloon and SW estate versions right from launch.

This year, these new products will increase the Peugeot range’s electrification rate to 70%, including both passenger cars and commercial vehicles (pix, right).

By 2023, 85% of the brand’s models will be electrified and 100% by 2025 in Europe.

From its launch, the 308 will offer two plug-in hybrid engines, adding to an already comprehensive range of electrified vehicles.

The 308 Hybrid 225 e-EAT8 delivers up to 225bhp by combining a 180bhp PureTech engine and an 81kW electric engine coupled with the eight-speed e-EAT8 gearbox (up to 59 km of 100% electric range, according to the WLTP protocol, currently undergoing approval).

The Hybrid 180 eEAT8 version, meanwhile, is powered by a 150hp PureTech engine coupled with the same 81kW electric engine and eEAT8 gearbox (up to 60km of 100% electric range according to the WLTP protocol, currently undergoing approval).

The electrification of the Peugeot range began three years ago with the launch of the e-208 and since then, 100% electric models (e-208, e-2008, Traveller and Expert) and plug-in hybrids (3008 and 508) stamped with the Lion have made their mark on the market.

In the first five months of 2021, Peugeot is the second best-selling generalist brand in Europe in terms of overall sales and is already the third best-selling generalist brand for electrified vehicles.

The e-208 and e-2008 are in second place in their respective BEV segments, gaining segment share month after month.

“Electrification is at the heart of our ‘Power of Choice’ strategy, which gives our customers the possibility of choosing the engine, whether conventional or electrified that best suits their needs,” says Peugeot CEO Linda Jackson.

“The excellent sales results of our electrified models show that in Europe, this strategy is bearing fruit.

“Internationally, even in markets where electrification is emerging, we will use our portfolio of electrified models to stand out as an inventive, premium generalist brand.

“Wherever we are, we want to be real drivers of progress.

“The ‘Power of Choice’ strategy is made possible by the group’s multienergy platforms, which allow us to set up the technology that best suits customers’ needs in a given model: electric, plug-in hybrid or combustion.”