Peugeot has expanded its electric line-up with the new e-308, which will go on sale in the UK next year in both hatchback and estate forms.
The petrol-powered and plug-in hybrid 308 and 308 SW were launched last year, and the BEV versions will sit between the Peugeot e-208 hatch and forthcoming Peugeot e-408 saloon in the French firm’s full electric line-up.
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While the e-308 hatch will be a rival for the likes of the Volkswagen ID 3 and Cupra Born, the e-308 SW will be one of a small handful of electric estate cars on the market. The closest rival will be the MG 5 – although it will likely be positioned at a more premium market. The estate is slightly longer than the hatch.
The e-308 and e-308 SW will both use the proven EMP2 architecture used for a range of EVs from parent firm Stellantis, but feature what is described as a “brand-new” electric powertrain.
It will be built around a 115kW (156bhp) motor that will drive the front wheels. It offers 192lb ft of torque and a 0-62mph time of around eight seconds is expected.
Energy will be drawn from a 54kWh battery, which offers an official range of 248 miles. The battery uses a new chemical composition that is made up of 80% nickel, 10% manganese and 10% cobalt, which the firm says offers improved energy efficiency.
The machine will use an 11kW on-board charger as standard, and can be rapid charged at speeds of up to 100kW, allowing for a 20-80 per cent charged in less than 25 minutes.
As with Peugeot’s other electric models such as the e-208 and e-2008 crossover, the e-308 will offer three driving modes – Eco, Normal and Sport – and a Brake mode that will activate an energy recovery system that can add range under braking.
Peugeot also says that both cars will offer a range of driver assistance features and the firm’s i-Cockpit dashboard layout, which features a small steering wheel with the main driver info display positioned higher up on the dashboard. The interior will also feature a 10in infotainment touchscreen and a number of “configurable i-toggles”.
The machines will feature special 18in aluminium wheels that have been honed for aerodynamic efficiency, and will also be the first electric Peugeot models to feature the firm’s new retro-styled badge. Both the e-308 and e-308 SW will be offered in Allure and GT trim levels.
The e-308 and e-308 SW will be available in the UK from the second half of 2023. Peugeot has yet to give pricing details, but it is expected to start from around £35,000.
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