Peugeot 208 Hybrid FE concept unveiled

The Peugeot 208 Hybrid FE concept has been revealed ahead of its Frankfurt Motor Show debut, and it showcases the company’s fuel-saving hybrid technology.

With emissions of just 49g/km and the ability to drive for up to 12 miles on electric power alone, the 208 Hybrid FE concept will play a part in Peugeot’s aim to produce a car that can get 141mpg.

The car uses a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine from the standard car, but adds an electric motor to improve power and fuel efficiency. The motor adds 40bhp to the car’s power output, and there have been some aerodynamic improvements and weight-saving measures as well. These improvements to the 208 mean the Hybrid FE can go from 0-62mph in eight seconds.

Although the amount of drag through the air has been reduced by 25 per cent and 200kgs have been cut from the car’s weight, the 208 Hybrid FE concept has no air-conditioning, power steering or assisted brakes. Similarly the fuel tank can only hold 20 litres of petrol in this concept car.

Peugeot has mentioned that although the steering is unassisted, the 19-inch alloy wheels reduce resistance and are easier to steer with in the first place. Similarly the brakes have been improved, partly by using the electric motor to help reduce the speed of the car, to the point where assisted brakes aren’t necessarily needed.

A big change over the standard Peugeot 208 hatchback is a new suspension system. It uses a piece of fiberglass in place of the springs and other usual parts, meaning 20kg is cut from the weight of the car. This improves efficiency and fuel economy, as well as performance.

The Peugeot 208 Hybrid FE comes as part of the company’s strategy to improve its hybrid technology. The ‘Hybrid4’ range of diesel-electric vehicles is already on sale, and Peugeot is also looking to produce a system called ‘Hybrid Air’ that uses compressed air to drive the wheels at low speeds.

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