12 June 2013

SEAT develops plug-in hybrid Leon for research

SEAT has completed a prototype plug-in hybrid version of the Leon with a rated fuel consumption in excess of 176mpg equivalent and CO2 emissions of 36g/km, writes Brian Byrne.

The Leon Verde is powered by a 1.4 TSI petrol engine and electric motor with a combined output of 170hp.

It can travel 50km on electric power alone and its smart charging system can avail of cheap off-peak electricity automatically.

A smartphone app can manage many functions of the car, which was developed in a private-public partnership between SEAT and the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness.

There are no immediate plans for production of the Leon Verde, which was developed for research purposes.