Words NZ Autocar | Images Peugeot
Published 3 October 2024
Peugeot has revealed its new electric range topper, the e-408. This part saloon, part crossover is set to rival Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2.
It’s another in Peugeot’s line-up that offers the choice of petrol, hybrid and electric powertrains.
Underneath the glitz is the EMP2 platform like e-308 and Astra use. However, this has the larger 58.2kWh NMC battery pack, unique within the Stellantis group. The bigger battery was evidently possible because of the fastback’s extended wheelbase.
The 408’s breezy design has a Cd of 0.28, up there with its rivals, and helps the EV to achieve a range of 450km. Energy use is rated at 13.6kWh/100km and it can accommodate charging speeds of up to 120kW. While the vehicle can apparently fit the 98kWh battery pack of the e-3008/e-5008 (range 675km), this is not yet an e-408 option. Peugeot said that the average customer drives about 45km per day so the smaller battery offers plenty of range. Its rivals however do offer long-range battery options.
The e-408 utilises the same synchronous motor as the e-3008, which outputs 154kW and 332Nm of torque (345 in Sport mode). No acceleration claims are made as yet.
The e-408 is differentiated from its ICE siblings simply by an ‘e’ badge at the rear. And they’re similar inside too; all models share the i-Cockpit, 10-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an i-Toggle shortcut touchscreen. Wheel-mounted paddles adjust three regen levels. A heat pump is standard fit. Standard items include 19-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, and LED headlights (Matrix in upper models).
Deliveries will kick off next year. Based on European pricing the top model will start with an eight in New Zealand.
