Currently, Peugeot has two electric models in its range: the e-208 and the e-2008, both based on the Stellantis group’s ICMP modular platform. These vehicles share a power unit (a 136 hp, 260 Nm engine of Continental origin) and batteries (a 50 kWh gross liquid-cooled pack).
The e-208 certifies a range of 340 km under the WLTP cycle, while the e-2008 is satisfied with 310 km. Therefore, they are below direct rivals such as the Renault ZOE (395 km WLTP) or the Hyundai Kona Electric (484 km WLTP); However, this has not prevented the lion’s signature proposals from becoming two of the best-selling electric cars on the European market.
It is expected that by 2023 both will receive a deep restyling that will include, among other things, a more efficient Nidec origin engine and somewhat more capable batteries (probably around 60 kWh capacity). In addition, the e-208 could win an accessible version of 80 hp and 40 kWh. Both will also benefit from an aesthetic update, new technological equipment, etc.
However, before the arrival of this update, Peugeot will subject them to a series of modifications that will allow them to improve their autonomy. Thus, the e-208 will gain 22 km, staying at a maximum of 362 km WLTP, while in the e-2008 the gain will be 25 km. How will these improvements be achieved?
The Citroën ë-C4 will also benefit from this update
To begin with, Peugeot has reviewed the transmission ratio; in addition, new tires with lower rolling resistance have been adopted. On the other hand, thanks to the incorporation of a humidity sensor, the software of the air conditioning system have been optimized, making it more efficient. According to the French brand, this will be especially noticeable in cold climates. These improvements will initially be introduced next month.
All this is in addition to the recent software update that improved the charging times of both models: although the peak is still 100 kW in direct current, a higher average power is now maintained throughout the charging process. In addition, B mode has also been optimized.
It is expected that the rest of the Stellantis group models based on the eCMP platform (Citroën ë-C4, DS 3 Crossback E-TENSE, Opel Corsa-e, and Mokka-e…) will also benefit from this update; in fact, rumors indicate that the Citroën, which currently homologates 351 km WLTP, will reach 375 km WLTP thanks to the new improvements.
