Electric Cars: The Basics
For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles:
Different Type Of Electric Vehicles (EVs): An Introduction
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
Electric Cars: Benefits Of Electric Driving: Top 5
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
What Is Regenerative Braking: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
Benefits Of Green Energy: A Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
EV Charging Cables: A Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
How Much Does It Cost To Charge An Electric Car At Home: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read MoreSign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter
The Peugeot 408 PHEV Fastback
Peugeot is part of the Netherlands based Stellantis N.V., which was formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (Italian/ American) and Groupe PSA (French). You may not be familiar with these names, but the automotive brands in the portfolio would be well known to most consumers. These include: Maserati, Opel, Vauxhall, Jeep, FIAT, Alfa Romeo etc.
Peugeot was founded in 1810 in Eastern France (Sochaux), and has a rich heritage in motor racing and the broader automotive sector. Peugeot has won many awards for its passenger cars, to include, six European Car of the Year awards. As part of the broader Groupe PSA, Peugeot is very committed to the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The company’s portfolio of electric vehicles (EVs), include:
- The all-electric Peugeot e-2008
- The all-electric Peugeot e-208
- Peugeot 308 PHEV
- Peugeot 308 SW PHEV
- Peugeot 408 PHEV
- Peugeot 3008 PHEV
- Peugeot 508 PHEV
- Peugeot 508 SW PHEV
- The all-electric Peugeot e-Rifter
- Peugeot e-Traveller PHEV
The new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) from Peugeot, the 408 PHEV, does beg the question, what body type is it? The electric vehicle (EV) is a blend of a coupé-SUV, crossover and an estate, with an attractive fastback exterior sloping roofline. A ‘Fastback’ or a ‘Sportback’ or any other similar exterior styling continues to gain in popularity, with both automotive manufacturers and consumers, and we do expect this momentum to continue.
For those with a keen eye on electric cars, the Peugeot 408 may look familiar. In fact, it is! The 408 PHEV shares much in common with the Citroën C5 X plug-in hybrid. Citroën is also owned by the same parent company, Stellantis N.V. It is now common for automotive manufactures to leverage the economies of scope, by sharing an underlying development platform across brands and models.
End result, lower production costs, which translates to lower retail prices. The 408 also has elements from the Peugeot 308. The Peugeot 408 uses the EMP2 V3 platform, which is used to develop both petrol and electrified powertrains.
Peugeot is keen for the 408 to standout and it certainly does. In fact, the design team at Peugeot took seven years to complete this project. The vehicle is available as a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) and a PHEV. Though Peugeot has not confirmed as yet, it is expected to also be available in due course as a battery-electric vehicle (BEV). For those new to electric cars, a BEV is a pure electric car and only runs on battery power!
The 408 PHEV has a 12.4 kWh onboard EV battery. It is an average EV battery size, that we have come to expect from manufacturers for plug-in hybrids, however, some of the newest PHEVs offer an onboard EV battery size closer to 20 kWh. Therefore, a little disappointing, in that, Peugeot does not offer the EV with a larger onboard EV battery. In general, the larger the EV battery capacity, the longer the pure electric range.
Peugeot claims the 408 plug-in hybrid has a zero-tailpipe emission electric range up to 64 km (WLTP) on a full charge. However, the real-world electric range will depend on a number of factors, and will certainly be less than the claimed range. For those new to electric driving, these factors include: driving profile, weather conditions, road surface, wheel size, onboard services used, passenger load and more.
Expect a real-world EV range between 50 and 55 km for the 408 plug-in hybrid. For those that drive short distances and can take advantage of the lower costs of electric driving, then the PHEV does make sense. However, if you are driving long distances on a regular basis, it will certainly be worth considering a pure electric car instead. The latest generation of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) have a zero-emission electric range between 300 km to 500 km. In some cases, even more!
We encourage driving a PHEV on the e-mode, to leverage the benefits of driving a plug-in hybrid. Apart from zero-tailpipe emissions, when driven on the electric mode, a PHEV offers the opportunity to lower the cost of motoring. Depending on where an EV is charged, the driving cost per km can be below 10 cents i.e. far lower than using a conventional petrol or diesel vehicle.
We recommend charging at home and overnight, when the electricity tariff prices are lower. We also encourage taking advantage of on-site solar generation and battery storage, to further reduce the cost of charging and lowering emissions.
The Peugeot PHEV does not offer DC charging capability. Most plug-in hybrids do not, given the smaller size of the onboard EV battery. The plug-in hybrid incorporates a 3.7 kW AC onboard charger as standard, with an option to upgrade to a 7.4 kW AC onboard charger.
Charging via a smart residential EV charger like myenergi zappi, the 3.7 kW AC option can achieve full charge in 3 hours and 25 minutes. With the upgraded 7.4 kW AC onboard charger, the EV can be fully charger in 1 hour and 40 minutes. We at e-zoomed recommend upgrading to the 7.4 kW AC onboard charger, as it will also help reduce the charging time at public charging stations.
Though the PHEV can be charged via a standard 3-PIN domestic plug, we at e-zoomed discourage the use of a domestic plug for charging an electric car. Those still keen to use one, the EV will take up to 5 hours and 30 minutes to achieve a full charge.
Though the interior of the EV is not as radical as the exterior, the PHEV does offer practicality and style. Given the length of the EV (4.6 metres), there is ample legroom for rear seat passengers. However, due to the Fastback roofline, the headroom can be tight for taller adults. The electric car offers a boot size up to 471 litres and a hands-free smart electric tailgate.
In terms of technology, the PHEV incorporates the latest-generation PEUGEOT i-Cockpit with a 10” digital display and 10” HD central touch-screen. The manufacturer offers a host of driver assistance aids, either as standard or as an option. Some of these include: active safety brake system, lane keeping assist, long range blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, lane positioning assist, night vision and more!
The plug-in electric car is available in two drivetrain options: HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 and HYBRID 225 e-EAT8. The HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 pairs a 1.6-litre PureTech 150 hp petrol engine with an electric motor (81 kW), powered by an onboard EV battery. The HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 pairs the PureTech 179 hp with the 81 kW electric motor.
In terms of performance, the front-wheel drive HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 delivers 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds, with a 225 km/h top speed (maximum power: 180 hp/ torque: 360 Nm). The HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 delivers 0-100 km/h in 7.8 seconds, with a 233 km/h top speed (maximum power: 225 hp/ torque: 360 Nm). In electric mode, the top speed is up to 135 km/h.
The electric car also benefits from instant torque. The EV incorporates 3 driving modes: Hybrid, Electric and Sport. We recommend driving as often as possible on the electric mode. The PHEV also incorporates regenerative braking to increase the efficiency and electric range.
Bottom-line, electric driving is good for the environment and the wallet!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Attractive exterior styling | Average sized onboard EV battery and unexceptional electric range |
| Decent interior cabin quality | 7.4 kW AC onboard charger not standard |
| Good vehicle efficiency | Headroom for rear-seat passengers impacted by roofline |
Gallery
The Peugeot 408 PHEV Fastback (credit: Peugeot)
| At A Glance | |
|---|---|
| EV Type: | Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) |
| Body Type: | Fastback |
| Engine: | Petrol-Electric |
| Available In Ireland: | Yes |
| Variants (3 Options) |
|---|
| Peugeot 408 Allure (from € 45,745): HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 |
| Peugeot 408 Allure Pack (from € 47,745): HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 |
| Peugeot 408 GT (from € 50,745): HYBRID 180 e-EAT8/ 225 e-EAT8 |
| EV Battery & Emissions | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Type: | Lithium-ion |
| EV Battery Capacity: | Available in one battery size: 12.4 kWh |
| Charging: | DC charging not available. Onboard charger 3.7 kW AC (0%-100%: 3 hrs 25 mins) |
| Charge Port: | Type 2 |
| EV Cable Type: | Type 2 |
| Tailpipe Emissions: | 24 – 30g (CO2/km) |
| Warranty: | 8 years or 160,000 km |
| Average Cost Of Residential Charging | |
|---|---|
| Battery net capacity : 8.8 kWh | € 2.10 |
| Battery net capacity : 11.6 kWh | € 2.78 |
| Battery net capacity : 12.0 kWh | € 2.87 |
| Battery net capacity : 13.10 kWh | € 3.14 |
| Battery net capacity : 14.10 kWh | € 3.37 |
- Note 1: The average cost of residential electricity in Ireland varies depending on the region, supplier and type of energy used. An average for Ireland is 23.97 cents/kWh.
- Note 2: Not all EV manufactures make available the data on net EV battery capacity, and in a number of instances the EV battery capacity advertised, does not state if it is gross or net capacity. In general, usable EV battery capacity is between 85% to 95% of the gross available capacity.
| Charging Times (Overview) | |
|---|---|
| Slow charging AC (3 kW – 3.6 kW): | 6 – 12 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SOC) |
| Fast charging AC (7 kW – 22 kW): | 3 – 8 hours (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
| Rapid charging AC (43 kW): | 0-80%: 20 mins to 60 mins (dependent on size of EV battery & SoC) |
- Note 1: SoC: state of charge
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Height (mm): | 1478 |
| Width (mm): | 2062 |
| Length (mm): | 4687 |
| Wheelbase (mm): | 2787 |
| Turning Circle (m): | 11.18 |
| Boot Space (L): | 471 |
| HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 12.4 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 64 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (Wh/km): | N/A |
| Fuel Consumption (l/100km): | 1.2 – 1.3 |
| Charging: | DC charging not available. Onboard charger 3.7 kW AC (0%-100%: 3 hrs 25 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 225 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive: | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 81 |
| Max Power (HP): | 180 |
| Torque (Nm): | 360 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Kerb Weight (kg): | 1,455 |
| Colours: | 6 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
| HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 | |
|---|---|
| EV Battery Capacity: | 12.4 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP): | 64 km |
| Electric Energy Consumption (Wh/km): | N/A |
| Fuel Consumption (l/100km): | 1.2 – 1.3 |
| Charging: | DC charging not available. Onboard charger 3.7 kW AC (0%-100%: 3 hrs 25 mins) |
| Top Speed: | 233 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h: | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive: | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Electric Motor (kW): | 81 |
| Max Power (HP): | 225 |
| Torque (Nm): | 360 |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Kerb Weight (kg): | 1,455 |
| Colours: | 6 |
| NCAP Safety Rating: | N/A |
Longest Range Plug-In Hybrid Electric Cars: Top 5
The continued improvement in the development of electric cars is not limited to only pure electric cars, also known as battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). In fact, we have also witnessed improvements for the latest-generation of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). In particular, increased range and lower emissions.
In the list below of longest-range PHEVs, all EVs have a claimed WLTP e-range over 100 km. Leading the pack is the Range Rover Sport Plug-In Hybrid with an emission-free electric range up to 114 km. In regards to tailpipe emissions, Mercedes PHEVs top the list with tailpipe emissions as low as 13g (CO2/km), significantly lower compared to the conventional petrol or diesel variants!
Though historically, plug-in hybrids have played an important role in the migration from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) petrol and diesel vehicles to all-electric cars, given the significant improvement in the e-range of pure electric cars, the role of PHEVs has reduced in importance. We can expect this trend to continue, as automotive manufacturers focus on developing and delivering pure electric cars. We at e-zoomed expect plug-in hybrid cars to become redundant in due course.
In general, we recommend buying a pure electric car, however, with those with very limited access to EV charging infrastructure and need to drive long distance on a regular basis, to consider a PHEV. Do keep in mind, for most families, day-to-day driving needs are limited to short journeys i.e. school runs, grocery store, gym, work, high street etc. Most of the latest-generation of pure electric cars can meet this need!
| Brand/ Model | Battery Size (kWh) | Electric Range (WLTP) | Tailpipe Emissions (CO2/km) | Body Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz C Class Plug-In Hybrid | 25.4 kWh | 104 km | 13g (CO2/km) | Estate |
| Mercedes-Benz C Class Plug-In Hybrid | 25.4 kWh | 110 km | 13g (CO2/km) | Saloon |
| Mercedes-Benz S Class Plug-In Hybrid | 28.6 kWh | 101 km | 19g (CO2/km) | Saloon |
| Range Rover Sport Plug-In Hybrid | 38.2 kWh | 114 km | 20 – 18g (CO2/km) | SUV |
| Range Rover Plug-In Hybrid | 38.2 kWh | 112 km | 21 – 18g (CO2/km) | SUV |
While e-zoomed uses reasonable efforts to provide accurate and up-to-date information, some of the information provided is gathered from third parties and has not been independently verified by e-zoomed. While the information from the third party sources is believed to be reliable, no warranty, express or implied, is made by e-zoomed regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. This disclaimer applies to both isolated and aggregate uses of this information.
Featured Articles
The Audi Q8 TFSIe Plug-In Hybrid SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
The Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
The All-Electric Volkswagen ID.5 SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
Volkswagen Golf Plug-In Hybrid Hatchback: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
The All-Electric Tesla Model X SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read More
The All-Electric MG ZS EV SUV: The Complete Guide For Ireland
Electric Cars: The Basics For those of you new to zero-emission electric driving, we recommend a read of the following articles: Sign up to the e-zoomed Electric Living newsletter…
Read MoreFeatured Products
-
Best-In-Class Home Solar Bundle Offer (440W Trina Solar 8 Panels + Sungrow Hybrid Inverter 3.0 kW): price includes product supply only – free delivery
Original price was: €3,155.95.€3,075.95Current price is: €3,075.95. (Including VAT)Brand:SungrowTrinaSolarCategory:Solar -
Best-In-Class Home Solar Bundle Offer (440W Trina Solar 8 Panels + Sungrow Battery Storage 6.4 kWh + Sungrow Hybrid Inverter 3.0 kW): price includes product supply only – free delivery
Original price was: €6,115.95.€5,999.95Current price is: €5,999.95. (Including VAT)Brand:SungrowTrinaSolarCategory:Solar -
Bundle Offer: Sungrow Home Battery Storage (6.4 kWh) + Sungrow Hybrid Inverter (5 KW/ Single-Phase): price includes product only – Free delivery
Original price was: €4,549.95.€4,050.95Current price is: €4,050.95. (Including VAT)Brand:SungrowCategory:Battery Storage -
Untethered Ohme Home EV Charger (7kW): price includes product only – free delivery
Original price was: €780.95.€685.95Current price is: €685.95. (Including VAT)Brand:OhmeCategory:EV Charging PointsCable:Untethered -
Custom-Made 1-Phase EV Charging Cable Type 2 to Type 2 (2m to 45m, 7.4 kW) – Made In Europe – Free Delivery
€219.95 – €645.95 (Including VAT)Category:EV Charging CablesType:Type 2Length (m):5 m10 m6 m15 m20 m2 m25 m30 m35 m40 m45 m3 m7 m8 m12 m18 m22 mCurrent (amp):32 ampPhase:Single Phase (7.4kW)This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
