Peugeot 308 SW, Hybrid HDi

Motoring Channel Staff - 30/August/2007

Paris, France — Peugeot has launched a number of new models at 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, including the two we're looking at here - both based on the new 308. The first model is Peugeot's new 308-based wagon, which can be optioned with seven seats, and the second new model is the 308 Hybrid HDi, expected to be on sale by 2010.

Peugeot 308 SW Prologue

The first model is 308 SW Prologue concept car, which will evolve into the 308 SW, or 308 station wagon. This new model marks the arrival of a panoramic glass roof onto production vehicles, and is claimed to be more flexible than its precursor, the 308 SW.

It will feature three rows of seating, and all individual rear seats can be folded or removed, allowing for increased cargo space. In total, the new 308 SW will seat up to 7 people. Even the front passenger seat can be folded flat into a 'desk'. 

The 308 SW Prologue also updates the 307's design with a new look. Similar to the 308 hatchback models, the new 308 SW features the protruding "nose" of the engine hood and the advanced looking bi-xenon directional headlamp designs. The rear of the car is also new.

The French car maker has packaged the 308 SW Prologue concept car with its 2.0-litre HDi DPFS engine. This diesel mill develops 100kW (136hp) of power, and with HDi DPFS technology that helps reduce CO2 emissions. The 308 SW measures 4.5 metres long and 1.81 metres wide.

Peugeot 308 Hybrid HDi

Peugeot has a good chance of being the first car maker in the world to deliver a hybrid diesel engine, launching the 308 Hybrid HDi at the Frankfurt Motor show. The European car maker released a statement saying: "This new 308 Hybrid HDi demonstrator represents another step on the path towards the planned commercialisation of the technology in 2010".

The propulsion system combines a tradtional diesel engine, in this instance a 1.6-litre motor, with an electric motor. The diesel engine outputs 81kW (110hp) and but combined with the electric motor's power boosts overall output to 98kW (132hp).

Peugeot claims the new concept car emits just 90g/km of CO2 and reduces fuel consumption by 58% in the urban drive cycle compared to a standard 308 HDi. Together with a 3.4L/100km fuel consumption, this would make Toyota's Prius look thirsty.

The Peugeot release also states: "...the engine has been designed to meet the future Euro V directive which comes into force in 2009 and offers the possibility of driving exclusively in electric or "ZEV" (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode for journeys in regulated urban centres".

Peugeot's frugal HDi hybrid makes use of Michelin's new Energy Saver tyres that reduce rolling resistance and therefore improve fuel economy slightly.

This new hybird model is started by a customary ignition key but, explains Peugeot, but unlike a conventional vehicle this will not start the diesel engine. Instead it intitiates the 6-speed automatic and the electric motor to begin with. The diesel engine only operates when required and is controlled by a stop and start system.

A new battery system that has a 200 volt output is housed in the spare wheel well, which doesn't impact boot space. The batteries are of the Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) type.Recharging the battery system is taken care of by regenerative braking.

To ensure a competitive purchase price, Peugeot says that priority has been given to using as many components as possible from current Peugeot vehicles. 

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