The Peugeot 508 HYbrid4 at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

After the debut of its HYbrid4 diesel-electric hybrid technology with its 3008 HYbrid4 model, Peugeot unveiled the next vehicle to use the technology during the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. This event was chosen for the debut of the 508 HYbrid4 model, which takes the innovative hybrid system and puts it into a large family car.
The 508 HYbrid4 model boasts the same essential features as the diesel-electric 3008. It has four driving modes – Auto, ZEV, 4WD and Sport. These are used for, respectively; optimum balance of efficiency and performance; an all-electric driving experience that results in no CO2 emissions; four-wheel drive for difficult weather conditions; and an extra performance boost. These modes can be selected by the driver, making HYbrid4 vehicles extremely versatile – as well as offering incredible fuel efficiency.
Arguably, what Peugeot was aiming to prove with the unveiling at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show was that – despite its pioneering powertrain – it resembled a quality family car in every other way. So it boasts attractive external looks, with the most notable difference from the standard 508 model being the inclusion of LED headlights arranged in three columns. This unique visual signature is sure to make the 508 HYbrid4 stand out when it’s taken for a drive.
The appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show brought with it a few more surprises for those who came to see the vehicle’s debut. For example, the 508 HYbrid4 rides slightly higher than the standard 508 model – and it’s also a little wider. It’s also been fitted with a new floating front grille that gives it a really sleek appearance that’s sure to turn heads.
Another difference – but one that would have been apparent before it was shown at the Motor Show – is that the 508 HYbrid4 is only available in a four-wheel drive model. This is because Peugeot’s diesel-electric technology is inherently four-wheel drive – the diesel engine drives the front wheels whilst the electric motor drives the back, though they don’t have to be used simultaneously.
For those at the Motor Show, a glance inside the vehicle would have revealed a world of luxury. It features premium upholstery, power seats up front, a panoramic sunroof, and the ‘Open and Go’ keyless entry system. It also features a heads up display, and a top-quality audio system for those long, enjoyable drives that demand great music.
From its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2011, it looked likely that the 508 HYbrid4, with reported CO2 emissions of 109 grams per kilometre, and a fuel economy of 67.2 miles per gallon, would become a favourite of those who value efficiency and eco-friendliness in their cars. Peugeot also plans to include its diesel hybrid technology in cars beside the diesel-electric 3008 and the 508 HYbrid4, so it’s likely that other manufacturers will follow suit with diesel-electric cars of their own. Here’s looking forward to future Frankfurt Motor Shows, where more exciting developments in green car technology are certain to be unveiled.