Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 Offers 200 HP and On-Demand All-Wheel Drive

Peugeot is set to introduce its first hybrid this coming spring. The 3008 HYbrid4 crossover will feature innovative technology and several firsts, including its distinction as the first production light-duty diesel hybrid and the first using through-the-road (TtR) hybrid technology. Here, the engine and electric motor drive trains are not mechanically connected, only connected ‘by wire.’ The parallel TtR architecture is simpler than the conventional power-split system, which means a less expensive diesel hybrid as well as the ability to provide a completely flat floor for maximum interior space.

The front wheels of the HYbrid4 are driven by a 163 hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The Peugeot turbocharged HDi FAP clean diesel engine is mated to an electronically-controlled six-speed transmission that can be operated in manual or full automatic mode. Shifting is done either by a console shifter or steering wheel paddles.

A 37 hp peak (27 hp continuous) synchronous permanent magnet electric motor is integrated with the rear axle. An 8 kilowatt high-voltage integrated starter-generator on the engine provides automatic start-stop capability, plus also serves as a generator to charge the Sanyo nickel-metal-hydride battery pack located beneath the trunk. The motor-generator is powered by the diesel engine and also recovers energy through regenerative braking. Peugeot plans a plug-in version of the Hybrid4 with a lithium-ion battery.

Combined output of the two powerplants is 200 hp and 369 lb-ft torque, with the diesel providing 60 percent of the torque and the rear electric motor supplying 40 percent. The Hybrid4 is rated at 61.9 mpg with CO2 emissions of 99 gm/km.

The 3008 Hybrid4 can operate in four different driver-selectable modes chosen via a selector on the center console. With the high-performance battery supplying the electric motor, the vehicle operates silently in zero emission mode at lower speeds. When greater acceleration is required, the starter-generator starts the diesel engine to bring additional power on line. Use of both the diesel engine and electric motor provides on-demand all-wheel-drive.

In the ‘auto’ mode, both the diesel engine and electric motor are automatically controlled for optimal fuel consumption and dynamic performance. The 'sport' mode allows quicker gear changes at higher rpm’s and couples the diesel engine with the electric motor to provide even greater performance. Here, power is optimally distributed and transmitted to the road by all four wheels.

A seven-inch multi-function display shows energy flow, operating status of the hybrid system, and battery state-of-charge. The Hybrid4 features a heads-up display, a Distance Alert system to help ensure a safe distance from vehicles ahead, and Parallel Park Assist that determines the size of a space to assess the feasibility of parking in it. There is also ESP stability control with an improved traction control system for maximum all-weather driving capability.