Belmondo’s Chase Scene from Le Professionnel (1981)

Georges Lautner’s 1981 action-thriller Le Professionnel is about a French Secret Service agent betrayed by his employers and left to rot in an African prison camp. After breaking out and returning to his native France, the agent (played by Jean-Paul Belmondo) begins plotting his revenge against the people who set him up. In this scene, Belmondo is attempting to outfox the French Secret Service agents following him.

Belmodono’s car is the red Fiat 131 Supermirafiori while his rivals are driving a black Peugeot 504. There are a couple of 180 degree turns, a handful of nice pit manoeuvres and the prerequisite shot of the Eiffel Tower for the non-Gallic viewers. The chase eventually moves to the grounds of the Palais de Chaillot, where we discover just how overused that, “driving a car down some stairs,” thing was before Jason Bourne got around to it.

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Video: Peugeot EX-1’s Record Breaking Run on the Nurburgring

On April 27, 2011, for the first time in the Peugeot’s history, the French car maker set an official lap record on the Nordschleife race track in Germany. And this was no ordinary feat as Peugeot established an electric speed record with a concept model, the EX1 design study, which we first laid eyes upon at last year’s Paris Motor Show.

With Stéphane Caillet, driver and tuner-technician from Peugeot’s Research & Development Centre, behind the wheel, the futuristic looking EX1 completed a lap around the Nurburgring in 9 minutes and 1.338 seconds (9:01.338) at an average speed of 138.324 km/h (85.951 mph).

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Peugeot's EX1 Concept Breaks the Electric Car Record on the Nurburgring

It's not very often we hear about an electric car taking on the fearsome Nurburgring-Nordschleife track. A concept version of an EV is an even rarer sight on the “Green Hell”, but that's exactly what Peugeot did as it put the EX1 design study at work on the world's toughest circuit.

It wasn't just a pleasure ride, however, since Peugeot visited the ‘Ring to break the lap record for electric cars. And it did, with driver Stéphane Caillet lapping the 20.8-kilometer (12.92-mile) long track in 9 minutes and 1.338 seconds, at an average speed of 138,324 km/h (85.95 mph), in “very unfavorable weather conditions”, according to the French automaker. The previous lap record set by an electric car belonged to the Mini E racer, which lapped the German track last year in 9 minutes and 51.45 seconds.

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Peugeot Unveils China-Designed SXC Crossover Study

Peugeot has a very good reason to unveil the SXC concept at the Shanghai Motor Show, as the crossover model has been designed and developed by the Peugeot Style Studios of China Tech Center. In addition, the SXC name stands for “Shanghai Cross Concept”, with Peugeot claiming that the crossover study was build to suit the tastes of Chinese buyers.

At 4,870mm long, 1,610mm tall and 2,035mm wide, the sleek crossover is a large vehicle. To put it in perspective, the BMW X6 measures 4,877mm long. The SXC features several styling cues seen in recent Peugeot concept cars, such as the SR1, HR1 and the EX1. The French firm said the study combines elements from both SUVs and saloon models.

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Peugeot to Premiere China Market 508 Sedan and New SUV Concept at Shanghai Auto Show

As China’s auto market continues to grow in numbers and significance, carmakers from both sides of the Atlantic and beyond are flocking to the world’s most populous country to reap the benefits. For its part, French automaker Peugeot plans to reinforce its presence in China by launching at least one new model per year into the market starting with the new local market 508 saloon that will be introduced alongside a brand new concept model at next week’s Shanghai Auto Show. Read more »

Toyota, PSA and BMW Closest to Achieving EU’s New CO2 Targets

Toyota, PSA/Peugeot-Citroen and BMW are the carmakers closest to reaching their CO2 targets next year, according to a report by market research firm JATO Dynamics. The targets are imposed by the European Union, whose objective for 2015 is to enforce a fleet average CO2 level of 130 g/km for manufacturers selling cars in Europe.

In order to reach that objective, CO2 targets are lowered progressively each year. In 2009 the average was 145.9 g/km and in 2010 it went down to 140.9 g/km. Emissions regulations will be imposed starting next year, with significant fines to be enforced to automakers that will not comply with the new emissions limits.

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VIDEO : 2011 Peugeot 308 Facelift Commercial is the Next Best Thing to a Wet T-Shirt Contest...

You can never get it wrong when casting attractive women in commercials, right? That's what the people from Peugeot must have thought when they commissioned this TV ad for the restyled Peugeot 308. The car plays a very marginal part in the commercial, with the 30-second long footage being dominated by the Peugeot's owner, an attractive young lady who walks with no umbrella in the pouring rain just to get to her beloved 308. Not the most creative of ads, but at least the people from the casting department did their job.

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Internet Sales, the Next Big Thing for Renault's Dacia and PSA’s Rumored Simca Budget Brands

A low-cost company has to find low-cost ways not only to produce, but also to market and sell its products. This is why Renault devised a strategy to sell Dacia models online, through an Internet sales program that will be implemented in Europe.

“Internet sales will quickly become a reality. Many of our customers know what they want before they step into our showrooms, so an online sales channel makes sense,” said Gerard Detourbet, head of Renault's low-cost program.

But that isn't the only reason. Renault will be soon facing the threat of a low-cost rival coming from the French group PSA Peugeot-Citroen. Rumored to receive the abandoned Simca name, the new make could sell its vehicles exclusively through the Internet, as sales chief Jean-Marc Gales hinted at the Geneva Motor Show.

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2011 Peugeot 308 Facelift

Peugeot has just released the images and details of the revised 308 hatchback. which will make its first appearance at the Geneva motor show in March.

The new Peugeot 308 will be available as Hatchback, CC and SW and comes in Access, SR, Active and Allure trim levels. There’ll also be a new Eco model – the Peugeot 308 e-HDi microhybrid diesel. The USP of the e-HDi is its CO2 emissions which dip to 98g/km, meaning free VED and congestion charge.

LED driving lights are the other big difference seen on the nose, and overall changes to the front bumper mean an amazing 25kg average weight saving. The new front end will grace the 308 hatch, SW estate and CC coupé-cabriolet, but at the back, each variant stays the same. The revamped range also gets a new model: the e-HDi microhybrid diesel. 

The Peugeot 308 range is divided into 8 engines: the 1.4 petrol 98 hp 4.1 VTI, 1.6 VTI 120 hp, 156 hp and 200 hp diesel and 92 hp 1.6 HDI, 2.0 HDI 112 hp and 150 hp and 163 with manual transmission or 5 6-speed automatic and on some setups.

The new Peugeot 308 will be available in three body styles; Hatchback, CC and SW, and four multi-model trim levels; Access, SR, Active and Allure. A range topping hatchback and CC THP 200 model will also be available in a single GT trim level.

The interior has been updated with new combinations of materials and accessories of the features included, among which confirmed the GTi, characterized by red stitching, GTi logo on the steering wheel and aluminum alloy in Storm Gray color.




Press Release

NEW PEUGEOT 308 – ELEGANT, EFFICIENT AND FULL OF NEW TECHNOLOGY

• New micro-hybrid e-HDi reduces CO2 emissions to 98 g/km*
• Latest generation Euro 5 VTi, THP petrol and HDi diesel engines
• Four model range – Access, SR, Active and Allure – all with high-level specification
• Two range topping GT THP 200 models – Hatchback & CC
• Range starts at £15,245 O.T.R
• On sale in May

The New Peugeot 308 will be launched in the UK in May with a new look, a range of innovative technology and CO2 emissions from just 98 g/km.

Since launch in September 2007 over 900,000 308 models have been sold worldwide. In the UK over 84,000 vehicles have been sold, making it the second most popular Peugeot model.
The New Peugeot 308 is being launched onto the UK market integrating all the latest Peugeot styling elements already seen on the Peugeot 508 and the SR1 Concept Car. The new Peugeot 308 will be available in three body styles; Hatchback, CC and SW, and four multi-model trim levels; Access, SR, Active and Allure. A range topping hatchback and CC THP 200 model will also be available in a single GT trim level.

A new look at the front with the latest LED headlamps and running lights gives the New Peugeot 308 an elegant and modern look. All the dynamic and emotional strengths of the original Peugeot 308 have been retained and strengthened further with the introduction of more efficient engines and Peugeot’s innovative micro-hybrid
e-HDi Stop & Start technology.

Peugeot’s micro-hybrid e-HDi Stop & Start technology is the latest generation technology and combined with Peugeot’s class leading 1.6 litre HDi FAP 112 Euro 5 diesel engine reduces CO2emissions to 98 g/km. This engine option will also be available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox (EGC). This will give the New Peugeot 308 the lowest emissions in its segment.

All models feature air conditioning, ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), ABS, EBFD, EBA, front and rear electric windows with child security, remote control central door locking with deadlocks and six SMART safety airbags.

To ensure the New Peugeot 308 is as environmentally efficient as possible all factors affecting CO2emissions have been optimised;

• Overall weight reduced by 25 kg on average on all models
• Fitment of new 16” ultra low rolling resistance tyres
• Optimisation of all engine options (VTi, THP petrol and HDi diesel engines to Euro5)
• Cx of 0.28 for the low consumption models – Record for this segment

This also enables the New Peugeot 308 HDi FAP 92 model, fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox, to emit CO2 emissions of only 110 g/km.

At launch four petrol and four diesel engines will be available.

Euro 5 Petrol Engines
1.4 litre VTi 98 ■5-Speed Manual Gearbox

1.6 litre VTi 120 ■5-Speed Manual Gearbox
■Automatic Gearbox

1.6 litre THP 156 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox
■Automatic Gearbox

1.6 litre THP 200 (GT Hatchback & CC models only) ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox

Euro 5 HDi Diesel Engines ■

1.6 litre HDi FAP 92 ■5-Speed Manual Gearbox

1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox
■6-Speed Electronically Controlled Manual Gearbox

2.0 litre HDi FAP 150 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox

2.0 litre HDi FAP 163 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox (CC)
■Automatic Gearbox

The New Peugeot 308 will be launched at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and go on sale in the UK in May. The new range will start from £15,245 on-the-road with an improved standard specification to the current model.

*The 98 g/km CO2 308 1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 model will be class leading in its segment and is pending approval, and will be available from summer 2011

Technologically efficient and elegant

The new Peugeot 308 comes with a new look, features innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology and optimises fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, which start from just 98 g/km.

With its new lines, the Peugeot 308 subtly incorporates the Marque’s latest stylistic codes. The car’s body follows the contours of the mechanical assembly underneath. The appeal of the three body shapes (Saloon, CC and SW) thus acquires a more technological elegance, illustrated by the presence of LED front lights with light guide. Dynamism and emotion are present as ever in the genes of the 308, particularly with its more assertive look thanks to new Xenon headlamps with titanium coloured mask and the hatchback in its exclusive GTi finish.

Determined to consolidate its leadership in terms of road holding and driving pleasure, the Peugeot 308 seeks to become a reference in terms of environmental efficiency. Indeed, following in the footsteps of the 508, the new Peugeot 308 features innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology, the latest generation STOP & START, on the 1.6 litre HDi FAP 112 bhp Euro 5 engine. This offer, on the “entry level” engine, is available with a semi-automatic manual gearbox and, for the first time, with a full manual gearbox, for optimal driveability.

In addition to micro-hybrid technology, all factors impacting the level of CO2 emissions have been optimised:

• weight reduced by 25 kg on average per car;
• launch of 16” tyres with Very Low Rolling Resistance;
• optimisation of the latest generation engines (VTi, THP, HDi Euro 5);
• Cx of 0.28 for versions with a low fuel consumption – A record in the segment.

Fuel consumption sets the standard:

• 98 g/km of CO2* for the 308 saloon 1.6 litre e-HDi

FAP 112 bhp BMP6 – A record in the segment
(* pending approval, available in the summer of 2011

• 104 g/km CO2 at launch);
• available power trains, comprising 4 petrol engines ranging from 98 bhp to 200 bhp for the exclusive GTi version and 4 diesel engines from 92 bhp to 163 bhp, have also been optimised to ensure a comprehensive range of engines guaranteeing environmental efficiency. As a result, the basic version – the 308

saloon 1.6 litre HDi FAP 92 bhp with manual gearbox – is well positioned, with CO2 emissions reduced to only 110 g/km.
The dimensions and quality of equipment on the new 308 remain unchanged, regardless of body shape, guaranteeing a spacious and comfortable passenger compartment. The same is true of primary, secondary and tertiary safety, which remain at the highest level. The 308 facelift will receive its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and will go on sale from April 2011 in Europe. Its mission is to continue the success story of the 308 family, with nearly 900,000 models sold since its launch in September 2007.

ELEGANT LINES ENHANCED BY ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

The design of the 308 facelift subtly incorporates the new stylistic codes of the Peugeot Marque. While the dimensions are unchanged, the new lines marry as closely as possible the car’s mechanical assembly to accentuate its athletic poise, while the front aspect gives a fresh look to the “floating” front grille concept. Greater importance accorded to unbroken surfaces marks a determination to present an elegant and luxurious style. The central protective capping, available in a black lacquer finish, has been made thinner to give greater prominence to the sheer metal. This is also true of the single air intake which is now smaller in size. Styling elements enhance the natural elegance which emanates from the 308 facelift. A satin chrome bead enhances the new front grille, as do horizontal bars, available in lustrous black or chrome according to body shape (saloon, CC or SW).

The bottom section of the lower front panel, which helps visually to broaden the car and “plant” it on the road, incorporates new dual-function lights (daytime and sidelights) shaped like a boomerang, available according to versions. With their meticulous finish, they blend perfectly and are harmoniously positioned on the upper surround of the fog light housing. Composed of variable intensity LEDs and a light guide, they guarantee a unique visual signature by day and by night while illustrating the high level of technology featured on the 308 facelift.

In the upper section, the V-shaped nose of the bonnet is one of the main expressive features of the 308. It has been redesigned to fit the car’s mechanical assembly as closely as possible and provides a new link with the floating front grille, in line with Peugeot’s new stylistic codes. The Marque badge, in its new dual material construction, is proudly positioned at the tip of the bonnet on a new black lacquer base set with a chrome bead, also in the shape of a V.

The outline of this nose, fluid and characteristic, is more curvaceous, particularly at the junction of the lights and the bonnet. The new smooth glass front headlamps, closely fitting the three cylinders, suggest a look that is both refined and assertive. And when the 308 is equipped with dynamic bi-directional Xenon headlamps complete with titanium coloured base, this look becomes even more profound, displaying all the strength of character of the 308 facelift.

The dynamism of the front aspect is echoed on the sides of the car. A styling line, running from the front wheel arches, crosses the side of the body and the rear lights before dropping towards the lower rear panel and coming to an end in the lower section.

The fluidity of the style is enhanced by the lateral glazed surface which follows a plunging waistline, and also by the panoramic rear window, which overlaps the rear quarter panel pillars.

Lastly, to establish the general appearance of the 308, a lower waistline starting from the lower front panel extends as far as the rear bumper. The car therefore seems well poised on the road, ready to exploit its dynamic qualities to the full . New diamanté effect 16 or 17 inch alloy wheels or Storm Grey 18 inch wheels for the GTi version underline this dynamic appeal.

The sense of dynamism is enhanced further by the car’s rear style.

On the saloon, the wraparound lower rear panel adds a note of robustness and perceived quality as well as a sporty touch thanks to the presence of a styling element in the shape of a spoiler and two inserts, which can have a chrome finish, suggesting exhaust nozzles.

The new Lion takes its place in the centre of the tailgate, while a satin chrome bead emphasizes the horizontal waistline, bringing a new balance to the rear of the 308.

On the SW, the contours of the robust lower panel and the rear lights have been designed to allow a wide boot aperture. The low load sill resulting from this design promises easy loading and a large internal capacity. From an aesthetic point of view, a horizontal waistline runs around the rear tailgate in its central section to “stretch” the car. This sensation is amplified by the body-coloured number plate insert surmounted by the new Lion badge.

On the CC the strength of the rear style is repeated, with a sense of horizontality given to the rear aspect that reinforces the impression of width. Numerous details add to this overall effect: the concave movement crossing the tailgate under the spoiler, the chrome bead framing the number plate and the presence of an air diffuser in the lower section. On either side and extending over the wings, the ruby-coloured LED rear lights with light curtain effect broaden the silhouette and give the 308 CC a unique and spectacular visual signature.

A FLUID AND LUXURIOUS INTERIOR

Stylists worked hard to exploit to the full the interior volumes freed up by the semi-tall architecture of the 308. They therefore designed a particularly inclined fascia panel, almost symmetrical to the front windscreen pillars, to offer unimpeded exterior visibility.

In addition, there was a marked determination to give the interior a very upmarket feel and an enhanced sense of perceived quality. The result is a fluid, pure and elegant fascia panel where pride of place is given to superior materials, according to finish: soft covering, leather trim, chrome, black lacquered materials... The care given to the finish and the emphasis on interior comfort are evident in every detail. According to the level in the range, new motifs decorate the door panel strips, panel trim, thumb rests on the steering wheel, etc. Similarly, the special seats on the GTi version have red visible stitching with specific marking on top of the seat back and an aluminium steering wheel ring showing the word “GTi”. Dark-tinted rear windows combined with dark wheel trims (Storm Grey) and the titanium mask of the discharge lamps, give this version a sporty and assertive identity, perfectly in keeping with the dynamic potential of its 1.6 litre THP 200 bhp engine.

Inside the 308 CC, the eye is caught also by the elegance of the 4 seats with integral head restraints and the possibility of full leather trim on the fascia panel, in different shades, which convey a touring car image. This distinctive design makes for even more comfortable seats with an Airwave warm air diffuser behind the necks of the front passengers. The pleasure of open-top driving is thus enhanced.

Interior comfort and convenience

A SPACIOUS AND BRIGHT PASSENGER CO MPARTMENT

The passenger compartment has been designed to ensure that a sense of space and brightness predominates, making occupants feel they don’t want their journey to end.

The interior dimensions and efforts by the designers to free up as much space as possible for passenger comfort make the 308 one of the most spacious cars in its segment.

Elbow width at the front is 1464 mm for the saloon and SW body shapes, and rises to 1492 mm for the Coupé Cabriolet version. At the rear, these dimensions are respectively 1471 mm and 1321 mm for the CC. The feeling of space is even more noticeable on account of the many clever storage spaces available inside the 308. Total storage capacity is 42 litres, making life inside the car easier and preserving space for the occupants.

All of the 7 passengers that can be seated in the 308 SW thanks to the optional additional 2 rear seats can benefit from these fitted spaces. They can also modulate and adjust the car’s interior as necessary by opting for individual seats in row 2. Nor has the boot volume been ignored, with a capacity under the parcel shelf of 674 litres for the SW and 430 litres for the saloon. With the load potential exploited to the full, the capacities are 2149 and 1398 litres respectively.

On the CC, all four passengers can benefit from the availability of a large boot capacity (465 litres) in the coupé configuration. On the cabriolet, with the retractable roof stored in the boot, the boot still offers a capacity of 266 litres. What’s more, it only takes 20 seconds to convert the 308 CC into a dynamic coupé or an elegant cabriolet.

Passengers in the 308 saloon and SW will also be able to benefit from a “sunny” passenger compartment thanks to the panoramic roofs available for these body shapes. They increase the total glazed surface area to 4.86 m² on the saloon and 5.58 m² on the SW. The light level inside the car can be regulated by means of an electrically-operated roller blind associated with this equipment.

To make the journey even more pleasant, automatic dual-zone air conditioning is available. With its active charcoal filter, it also reduces hydrocarbon odours inside the passenger compartment.

Finally, passengers will be able to benefit from a high quality audio and telematics system: WIP Sound audio system, Bluetooth hands-free kit, WIP Nav satellite navigation and WIP Com 3D with a retractable 7” 16/9 colour display. A JBL hi-fi system is also available and may be combined with laminated side windows for optimal acoustic performance. Regardless of body shape, the 308 facelift offers a high level of comfort and convenience.

REDUCTION OF CO 2

The reduction of CO2 emissions was one of the main objectives of this project. This resulted in a search for environmental efficiency at all levels. All factors influencing fuel consumption were optimised:

• weight reduced by 25 kg on average per car;
• launch of 16” tyres with Very Low Rolling Resistance;
• use of a piloted oil pump on 1.6 litre HDi engines;
• optimisation of operation of the alternator on some engines;
• improvement of power steering control (electropump unit);
• Cx of 0.28 for versions with a low fuel consumption – A record in the segment;
• e-HDi micro-hybrid technology;
• 98 g/km of CO2* for the 1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 bhp BMP6 version – A record in the segment (* pending approval, available in the summer of 2011 – 104 g/ km CO2 at launch).-

e-HDi MICRO-HYBRID TECHNOLOGY

After the 508, the new Peugeot 308 is the second of the Marque’s cars to introduce the innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology, a new generation STOP & START.

This innovation is based on the combination of a 1.6 litre HDi Euro 5 diesel engine and a reversible alternator ensuring the STOP & START function. Relying on an alternator control system (Volt Control) to recover energy during deceleration and a hybrid battery to store and deliver additional energy on startup (e-booster), the HDi unit allows:

• a 15% reduction in fuel consumption in urban traffic;

• a 5 g/km reduction in CO2 emissions for approved cycle fuel consumption;

• 40% faster restarting (400 ms) than with an enhanced starter STOP & START;

• activation of engine cut-out from 20 km/h with a manual gearbox (8 km/h for the electronicallycontrolled gearbox);

• increased driveability of t

he STOP & START (silent operation, no vibrations). The second-generation reversible alternator used here has a power of 2.2 kW and allows up to 600,000 restarts. However the STOP & START function can be de-activated by the driver if preferred by means of a button on the fascia panel.

1.6 LITRE e-HDI FA P 112 BHP ENGINE

To deploy this technology on a large scale, the new 308 proposes e-HDi technology with a “basic” engine, the 1.6 litre HDi FAP 112 bhp, which can be coupled with two gearboxes (manual or electronicallycontrolled). This is a first, since hitherto e-HDi technology was available only with the BVMP6 electronically-controlled gearbox. This new offer maximises driving enjoyment by increasing the phases of driving “in silence”. When coupled with a manual gearbox, engine cut-out is possible from a speed of 20 km/h.

A CO MPREHENSIVE RANGE OF LATEST-GENERATION ENGINES

To reduce CO2 emissions as much as possible, the 308 facelift is uniquely equipped with the very latestgeneration engines for both petrol (VTi or THP engines) and diesel versions (new HDi Euro 5 engines). On the saloon, all 8 available engines, as well as different possible gearbox combinations (manual, electronically-controlled manual or automatic), will allow every customer to find the version that suits them best.

PEUGEOT KNOW-HOW

True to the Marque’s values in terms of driving pleasure, the 308 facelift seeks also to preserve its leadership in terms of road holding. The features that make the 308 a reference are maintained:

• rigid body structure;
• McPherson type front suspension;
• rear suspension with torsion beam;
• hydraulic dampers with valves;
• power steering with variable assistance piloted by an electro-pump unit;
• large disc brakes (ventilated at the front) – up to 302 x 26 mm;
• ABS, electronic brake force distribution, emergency brake assist and automatic switching on of hazard warning lights as standard;
• Bosch 8.1 ESP according to versions.

HIGH LEVEL SAFETY ON ALL CO UNTS

Whether in terms of primary, secondary or tertiary safety, the 308 facelift is positioned at the highest level. Firstly, the excellent rigidity of the structure ensures optimal operation of the wheels and suspension ensuring a high level of primary safety. In terms of secondary safety, the structure itself has been rigorously designed to withstand even the most severe impact, thanks in particular to a triple force channel at the front. The use of high-strength steel and “multilayer” reinforcements in specific areas has made it possible to raise the level of safety of occupants while reducing the overall weight of the car.

In addition to the performance of the structure, efficient means of restraint are proposed:

• up to 8 air bags on the saloon and SW;
• up to 6 air bags on the CC, including 2 head air bags at the front;
• extractible safety hoops on the CC in the event of rollover;
• 3-point seat belts with belt not fastened or unfastened acoustic warnings;
• Isofix fixtures.

Lastly, with regard to tertiary safety, the 308 facelift benefits from Peugeot Connect services. Occupants are put through to an assistance helpline when an emergency call is made (Peugeot Connect SOS) or a breakdown service in the case of a mechanical incident (Peugeot Connect Assistance). These services are available via a Peugeot Connect unit or with the top-of-the-range WIP Com 3D telematics offer.

NEW COLO URS AVAILABLE

The 308 facelift range offers a total of 11 colours, three of which are new:

• Bourrasque Blue
• Philaea Blue
• Umber (already available on the 308 CC)
• Bianca White
• Hurricane Grey
• Vapor Grey
• Aluminium
• Shark Grey
• Black Pearl
• Babylon Red
• Pearlescent White (only on the 308 CC).

2010 Paris Auto Show: Peugeot HR1 Concept

Peugeot has unveiled new HR1 urban concept car which will debut at the 2010 Paris Auto Show opens on 2 Oct 2010. It's a small crossover, mixing the best bits of coupe, city runaround and SUV. Sound familiar? Yep, it's sort of like a shrunken Range Rover Evoque.

The car isn't as attractive as the EX1 -- it's tall, chunky and ever so slightly odd-looking. But it does have some interesting tech additions. The most notable of these is an Archos 9 PC Tablet mounted in a tray on the passenger side of the vehicle.

The three-cylinder 1.2-liter gasoline engine is a version of Peugeot's future family of efficient three-cylinder engines that is now in development, the automaker says. It's teamed with a rear-positioned electric motor with all-wheel drive and a combined 147 horsepower. The 19-inch wheels are fitted with Michelin tires.

The car’s instrumentation suggests total command of the vehicle by the driver, with ergonomically placed controls, a small steering wheel, and a Head-Up display allowing information to be seen without the driver taking their eyes off the road.
The ingenuity of the HR1 resides also in its modularity. Its load area is practical and accommodating thanks to its flat floor and sides, offers a load space of 25.9 sq ft.

Total output for the hybrid powertrain on the Peugeot HR1 is 147 bhp, and power is sent to the wheels through an electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox. The driver can also choose between two modes of operation, sequential or automatic. In a combined cycle the Peugeot HR1 can return 81 mpg (2.90 l/100km), while CO2 emissions are of 80 g/km.




Press Release

PEUGEOT HR1 – TOTALLY URBAN AND CONNECTED
29/09/10

• New three-cylinder THP 110 petrol engine
• 81 mpg and just 80 g/km
• Uses Peugeot's HYbrid4 technology
• Innovative rear "stowaway seat" system
• Clever "hands-free" onboard system control
• Provides enjoyable urban motoring and genuine environmental efficiency

The HR1 is an exclusive and innovative urban concept car that blends together a number of genres (city run-around, coupé and SUV). It is targeted at active young city dwellers smitten with design and innovation who are in search of a vehicle that matches their profile.

Peugeot is always exploring new motoring ideas and this inventiveness has already given rise to many production vehicles and concept cars, including a number of genuine commercial and design successes (Coupé/Cabriolet, the 3008... and more recently the BB1 concept vehicle).

The HR1 is based on several different body designs: city run-around, coupé, SUV... and, in doing so, is creating its own identity and new and original benefits.

The HR1 has been created to appeal to young city dwellers; individuals and couples, who lead an active outgoing life and who seek out new lifestyle experiences in relation to their leisure activities and their mobility.

It is designed to make urban travel easy and pleasurable even in the busiest or most confined urban areas. It is helped by its particularly compact dimensions (a length of 3.67 m and very short front and rear overhangs) but also an original system for getting into and out of the vehicle. Based on the Marque's experience in this field, the HR1 has two electric "scissor" doors to facilitate access under all circumstances (restricted parking, small garage, etc...). To improve visibility and manoeuvrability and provide a dominant driving position, the ride height of the vehicle has been raised, also improving ground clearance.

The HR1 contains all the genes of the Peugeot Marque, whose new stylistic design codes were first unveiled on the SR1 Concept car. The HR1 shares the same expressive headlamps with their finely chiselled design and the single "floating" front grille which seems to be detached from the rest of the body, as the SR1.

The overall styling is athletic, powerful and dynamic and is strengthened further by the flowing wheel arches, large wheels and the raised sections above the rear windscreen, reminiscent of the "double bubble" roof design of the RCZ Coupé. The finesse of the superstructure, the two-tone interplay of polished and chrome materials, every component expresses the high level of build quality, a sign of the meticulous attention paid to every detail. This is true also of the headlamps and "full LED" rear lights, finished in the style of hi-tech jewels which give the car a unique signature by day and by night.

Innovation is a strong feature of all Peugeot models and especially the HR1. At the rear, the roof bars serve as an ingenious hinge for the opening one-piece, dark tinted glass tailgate.

In keeping with the recent design trends of the Marque's latest vehicles, the interior of the HR1 has a structured design, with a "High-Tech Coupé" driving position, providing a special ambiance through the combination of style, quality of finish, equipment and ergonomics.

The driver and passenger are both provided with a "privileged area" within the vehicle, separated by a centre console which adds to the futuristic design and helps increase light levels due to the use of electroluminescent diodes. The fitment of the two glazed roof sections, dedicated to the right and left occupants, with an electro-chrome finish, also help to diffuse more light on request.

The car's instrumentation suggests total command of the vehicle by the driver, with ergonomically placed controls, a small steering wheel, and a "Head-Up" display allowing information to be seen without the driver taking their eyes off the road.

The passenger compartment of the HR1 has a very "authentic" feel, dynamic, technological and protective, able to shield its occupants from the stress of the outside world.

The HR1 is equipped with particularly innovative controls which operate what is known as the "man-machine interface". The concept car thus has a "movement recognition" system. Simple and intuitive, this allows the driver to scroll through functions and select available settings with a simple movement of the hand. For example, by rotating the hand the user can scroll menus, displayed in the manner of a carousel. The driver can also choose to switch control of the menus to the front passenger, with a sweep of the hand from left to right.

The technology controlled by this method includes the audio, satellite navigation and air conditioning systems. The driver can also select, at his discretion, the preferred type of information to be displayed in the instrument panel: rev counter, water and oil temperature during "dynamic driving", or tourist information when "cruising". The front passenger, meanwhile, benefits from a mobile PC tablet which allows data to be shared and exchanged with the driver's display.

The ingenuity of the HR1 resides also in its modularity. It has been designed primarily for young city dwellers without children, in search of a fun vehicle that is fashionable and roomy enough to carry their leisure equipment (bicycle, diving equipment, etc...) or be loaded up with shopping. Its load area, practical and accommodating thanks to its flat floor and sides, offers a load space of 734 litres.

The passenger compartment can be very quickly configured to accommodate either three or four full size seats, thanks to the clever "stowaway seat" system. With this system the rear seats fold down flat and then fit snugly behind the front seats creating a flat load area floor. As on the RCZ, the special shape of the rear tailgate glass with its raised "double bubble" sections, allows the rear headroom to be optimised. When both rear seats are raised, the boot capacity is reduced, but it still offers a substantial 180 litres of space.

One of Peugeot's key priorities is to retain its environmental leadership over the coming years. In this respect, the HR1 Concept, which is most at home in the city, needed to meet this brief by being particularly efficient and innovative.

The HR1, therefore, incorporates Peugeot's innovative HYbrid4 technology with all its associated benefits. With an internal combustion engine at the front and an electric motor at the rear it can be driven as often as possible in "zero emissions" mode in town at low speed, or with both "engines" together, providing four-wheel drive capability where challenging surfaces warrant it.

Under the bonnet, the internal combustion engine which drives the front wheels is a new three cylinder petrol unit. It has a capacity of 1.2 litres and, using Peugeot's THP technology, produces 110 bhp. It is one of the members of the future family of three cylinder engines currently under development. As part of Peugeot's downsizing strategy, the engine has been developed using the most advanced technologies, combining both a high level of performance with environmental efficiency.

It is linked to a 37 bhp electric motor and, therefore, has a maximum potential power output of 147 bhp, with a combined fuel consumption of 81 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 80 g/km.

The electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox (with control paddles on the steering wheel and a centrally mounted gear lever) coupled with this power train is designed to offer maximum control. The driver can also opt between two modes of operation, sequential or automatic.

The HR1 has a pseudo McPherson front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. Steering is provided by an electric power steering system which offers excellent handling characteristics at low speed, astonishing agility during manoeuvres and maximum accuracy at higher speeds, for good all-round performance.

With its high-performance suspension, efficient steering and new power train, the HR1 provides a unique driving experience, combining the emotion of real driving enjoyment with the rigour of genuine environmental efficiency.

Technical Data – Peugeot HR1 Concept Car

Petrol Engine	Capacity	1,197 cc
	Maximum power	110 bhp
	Maximum torque	195 Nm
Rear Electric Motor	Type	Synchronous with permanent magnets
	Continuous / peak power	27 bhp / 37 bhp
	Continuous / peak torque	100 Nm / 200 Nm
Total	Maximum potential power	147 bhp
Tyres	Type	Michelin
	Size	225 45 R19
Transmission	Type	Electronically-controlled six-speed manual gearbox
Fuel tank	Capacity	41 litres
Fuel Consumption	Combined cycle	81 mpg
	CO2 (g/km)	80 g
ZEV	Combined cycle	0
Zero Emission Vehicle	CO2 (g/km)	0
	Maximum range at constant speed	1.55 miles
Dimensions	Overall length	3694 mm
	Overall body width	1755 mm
	Overall height – with full tanks	1492 mm
	Wheelbase	2311 mm
	Front / rear overhang	703 mm / 680 mm
	Front / rear track	1534 mm / 1512 mm
Interior	Load area volume in 2 seat configuration	734 litres
	Load area volume in 3 seat configuration	457 litres
	Load area volume in 4 seat configuration	180 litres
Weight	Kerb weight with full tanks	1130 kg