Peugeot Hybrid3 Evolution Concept

Peugeot has peeled the top off their Hybrid3 concept which debuted at the 2008 Paris Auto Show to reveal an open-air scooter with three wheels and three separate motors to power them. While previous concepts from have included a minimal roof, the Peugeot's Hybrid3 Evolution just show at the 2009 International Cycle and Motorbike Show (EIMCA) is the first design that mimics the successful formula of the MP3 models already on the market from Piaggio and to a lesser extent Gilera. It represents the automakers latest attempt at bridging the gap between cars and scooters for the benefit of urban motorists and the most likely to make it to production.

Peugeot's three-wheeler has a supercharged 300cc petrol engine that offers 41bhp a the rear wheel, but makes use of additional electric motors on each front wheel, delivering a extra 8bhp.100kph is achieved in under 10sec and the motor, which includes a stop-start function, is as clean as a Toyota Prius emitting just 48g/km of CO2. Best of all, it can run in various modes employing petrol, electric or combined power and allowing for 10km of travel rolling solely on electric power.There’s no mechanical connection between the electric and gas drivetrains, and regenerative braking charges the lithium ion batteries. Estimated consumption is 2l per 100km. The drivetrain of the Hybrid3 was engineered by Peugeot Motorcycles, while Automobiles Peugeot was responsible for the exterior design.

Officially it’s just a concept, but since rival Piaggio has already confirmed production of its own plug-in hybrid three-wheeler, it seems inconceivable that the showroom ready-looking Peugeot won’t be available to the public before the end of 2010.

Source: Wired