Peugeot 308 Hybrid The Next Generation

Today's post continues my earlier report (August 30th-Peugeot Putting On the Environmental Style).With the unveiling at next week's Frankfurt Motor Show of the
new 308 hybrid HDi, Peugeot signals its strategy and ambition for 2010-2015.The carmaker is determined to consolidate its leadership in the manufacture of environmentally fiendly cars by 2010.By 2015,it plans to be the most competitive carmaker in Europe.

In this way,Peugeot,like Toyota see the green route is the way to the top.Peugeot is determined to reverse its unsatisfactory profit margins and to improve quality and service.

Back to the 308,the demonstrator model to be unleashed at the Frankfurt Motor Show has impressive green credentials.A diesel,rather than a petrol engine,hybrid power train is used to squeeze out a combined cycle consumption of 83 mpg with emissions of only 90g/km of CO2.

The new 308 to be launched in 2010,has a 110 bhp 1.6 HDi DPFS diesel engine coupled with a 22 bhp electric motor . Its performance is 38% better than an equivalent 308 diesel HDi model. Now that is an improvement!

The engine is also designed to operate in Zero Emission Mode (ZEV) on urban roads.
This will meet a future Euro V directive.On open roads and motorways, diesel will power the car;at low speeds and when starting ,the electric motor alone will operate.

Another aspect I like with the new 308 is the use of Michelin's Energy Saver tyres to reduce rolling resistance.The promoting and continuing development of performance enhancing tyre technology is one of the crucial elements in the satisfactory achievement of low consumption driving.

Roll on the Frankfurt Motor Show!This runs from the 13th -23rd of this month.
I hope to bring you some news and pictures from this showcase event for new concepts and production cars.