Peugeot is rapidly embracing an electric future, writes Trish Whelan.
The new Peugeot 508 Hybrid range will go on sale here from December when prices and specifications will be announced, with first units arriving in early 2020.
The 508 Hybrid range has passed stringent certification tests under the new WLTP protocol. Peugeot say the results are impressive achieving 29g C02/km (1.3L/100kms) and 54 km in 100 per cent electric mode for the 508 fastback and 30g C02/km (1.3 L/100kms) and 52 km in 100 electric mode for the SW estate, under Ireland’s Budget 2020 announcements, the range will qualify for the newly calculated grant thresholds now applicable.
Under new rules, plug-in hybrids must now emit less than 50g/km C02 and travel more than 50km in all-electric mode to qualify for the €5,000 SEAI grant and €2,500 VRT relief.
The new 508 Hybrid and 508 SW Hybrid combine a 180bhp (132kW) Pure Tech petrol engine with a 110bhp (80kW) electric motor for a maximum combined power of 225bhp (165kW). The battery has a capacity of 11.8kWh and recharging takes less than 1hr45 with a Wallbox (optional 6.6 kW charger, 32A).
Built on the brand’s EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform), spaciousness is maintained and the boot volumes are the same as the combustion versions which are 487 litres for the 508 and 530 litres for the SW.
New driving modes are: a Zero Emission 100 per cent electric mode; a Sport mode; a Hybrid mode; a Comfort mode.
Peugeot say with the introduction of both the 508 and 508 SW Hybrid, their primary aim was to successfully deliver ownership and running costs, dependant on local taxes, equivalent to that of a traditional BlueHDi diesel 130bhp EAT8, 8-speed automatic engine.
For business to business company use, this cost is calculated based on 30,000km per year with a driving rate of 65 per cent in hybrid mode and 35 per cent in 100 per cent electric. For private individuals, the calculation is based on an assumption of 15,000 km per year with a 50/50 split between hybrid and 100 per cent electric driving.
Both versions are available in Allure (level 3), Allure Business, GT Line (level 4) and a top of the range GT trim.
Des Cannon, Managing Director at Gowan Distributors, Peugeot Importer in Ireland, said: "The all-new 508 Hybrid and 508 SW hybrid will join our growing line-up of plug-in electric hybrid and fully electric models, including the soon-to-arrive and all-new 3008 SUV GT Hybrid4, the e-208 and e-2008 SUV." He said customers can choose their Peugeot model, their powertrain where they can choose between conventional petrol and diesel models as well as electrified variants.
"By 2023, 100 per cent of the Peugeot range will be electrified," he added.
