Peugeot continues its electrification program. After initial conclusive tests of the e-208, the three-color manufacturer offers us today the 100% electric version of its new 2008. Will it be at the level of its little sister?
With no less than two big innovations (new 208 and 2008) in the space of two months, we can not say that we are bored at Peugeot. On the contrary, all the more so since the brand has not simply renewed these models but has taken advantage of the arrival of these new generations to embark on the adventure of 100% electric.
So, after the e-208 already tried, here is now the e-2008. Peugeot applied the same policy: the customer fell for the model and then chose the type of engine. These two vehicles are available in thermal (petrol and diesel) and electric. The Sochalian firm therefore did not design a specific model unlike its direct competitor, Renault.
This policy has direct consequences on style. Thus, there is no difference between the thermal and electric versions, except for the presence of a dichroic lion (two-color) and “e” logos on the wings and the tailgate.
Same trend in the interior where the only distinction lies in the presence of a light gray alcantara. Aside from that, we find the dashboard of the 208 with its new generation of i-cockpit with its small steering wheel, its multimedia touch screen up to 10 inches and especially its 100% digital instrumentation integrating and it is unique on the market a 3D display.
Regarding practical aspects, the 2008 offers a boot capacity of 434 liters. As we have seen during the tests of the thermal versions, this volume is not the best in the category. But for electric, it is quite the opposite. Thus, the main rival of the e-2008, namely the electric Hyundai Kona, has to settle for only 332 liters. The e-Peugeot is therefore very well placed in this area. The same is true of the habitability similar to that of the 2008, that is to say in the good average of the category.
This e-2008 is available with the same finishes as the thermal versions, namely Active, Allure, GT Line and GT. However, it inherits some specificities. Thus, the entry level benefits in addition to the automatic parking brake, automatic air conditioning, keyless start, two S + USB sockets on the central console and automatic day and night braking. GT Line also benefit from the single-phase on-board charger and type 2 electric cable. Finally, our trial version, namely the high-end GT, is fitted with an exclusive Alcantara / TEP upholstery.
The same engine as the e-208
Developed from the e-CMP platform, namely that which was used for the e-208 and the DS3 Crossback E-Tense recently tested, the e-2008 logically uses the same mechanics. Under its hood, a 100 kW engine (equivalent to 136 hp) and 260 Nm powered by a 50 kWh battery allowing it to travel 310 km according to the WLTP standard, which is about 30 km less than the e-208 due to slightly less favorable weight and aerodynamics. In terms of performance, Peugeot has not yet approved its e-2008. However, we can estimate that the 0 to 100 km / h will be shot in a time close to 8.2 s, time of the DS3 Crossback E-Tense and we can hope even a little better given the dynamism claimed by Peugeot.
At the wheel, the sensations are very different from those of the DS3. The 2008 clearly affirms its difference from its cousin with a much higher dynamism. Its behavior is thus very close to that of the thermal version, which is logical because of the identical platform. The addition of batteries which lead to an increase in weight of around 300 kg hardly alters the behavior due to their location under the floor.
A great feat on the part of Peugeot engineers made possible thanks to the adoption of a specific rear axle (deformable with Panhard bar) and new shock absorbers. At the wheel, we discover a 2008 certainly firmer but not uncomfortable. It is only when you really increase the pace that you notice the slight appearance of understeer.
Driving pleasure is therefore there and we enjoy the wheel, which is very good news. But, beware, having fun with an electric vehicle can quickly pay cash and have consequences on consumption. Thus, driving normally (with air conditioning, radio) but tonically with an ambient temperature of around 10 °, we recorded an average of 22 kW / h. However, more poured, we can consider an average of 17 kW / h, close to that of the DS3 E-Tense seems more reasonable.
To improve this, it is possible to play with the two choices of regeneration: D leaving an almost complete freewheel when you lift your foot from the accelerator, and B with the more powerful engine brake allowing greater regeneration.
For charging, Peugeot announces a time similar to that of the DS3 Crossback e-Tense, namely 16 hours on a household outlet, 7:30 on a single-phase wallbox and 5 hours on a three-phase. 80% of the recharge can be recovered within 30 minutes.
