Isn't it too sexy for my car?
Yup, keep on singin'. Peugeot says the HX1 concept car is merely designed to help envisage future solutions in numerous fields like architecture, aerodynamics, modularity, equipment, interior materials and powerplants.
The basic package itself is a six-seat MPV whose proportions are even chunkier than today's 5008 people-carrier. The overall length, for instance, stands at five metres _ just about as long as luxury saloons like the Mercedes-Benz S-class.
The HX1, which has an Aston-like face similar to earlier concept cars like the SR1 and HR1, will be the highlight of Peugeot's stand at the Frankfurt motor show this month. Its world premiere is accompanied by the 508 RXH crossover _ a jacked-up 508 estate.
- What's propelling the HX1?
It is the first time Peugeot has shown a preview of a plug-in hybrid which has a drivetrain layout very similar to the market-ready 3008 Hybrid.
Driving the front wheels is a 204hp 2.2-litre diesel-turbo via a six-speed automatic; spinning the rear ones is a 95hp electric motor.
This effectively brings maximum power to 299hp, while all-wheel-drive guarantees driving security on slippery roads.
Peugeot says the HX1 can drive on pure electricity for 30km while gaining on a 31kpl theoretical touring range.
The HX1 is a plug-in hybrid vehicle.
- So it isn't too sexy for my engine?
Yup, there's a good chance of this plug-in hybrid making it to production (Citroen would help boost economies of scale _ just like it shared the 3008 HYbrid's diesel-electric combo with the DS5).
Just when Peugeot is going to make it available in showrooms is another thing.
Let's not forget that other brands have already started their foray into plug-ins like the Chevrolet Volt/Opel Ampera from General Motors and Toyota's Prius Plug-in (in limited numbers in selected cities around the world).
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
No comments:
Post a Comment