Peugeot likely to delay plug-in hybrid program to save money
Peugeot-Citroen HYmotion4 hybrid drive architecture
In yet another sign of the troubled economic times we live in, PSA is indicating that the introduction of a plug-in hybrid version of its new 3008 crossover will likely be delayed at least a year or two. Just as every other automaker is doing, the parent of Peugeot and Citroen (PSA) is cutting spending in order to try and keep costs in line with plummeting revenues. The plans for a 2011 launch of the HYbrid4 diesel hybrid are currently still on track, although Peugeot estimates sales of that version will likely be in only the tens of thousands annually rather than millions. The HYbrid4 is a through-the-road system with an electric motor driving the rear wheels and the conventional diesel powertrain moving the front wheels. Ladimir Prince, manager of PSA's hybrid innovations unit, told Automotive News Europe that research on PHEVs is ongoing, but battery costs remain a major obstacle. At this time, PSA has not even said when it might launch a plug-in hybrid.
Gallery: 2010 Peugeot 3008
Gallery: Peugeot Prologue HYmotion4
[Source: Automotive News - sub req'd]
