Peugeot is introducing its fully electric 208 compact hatchback in Australia, called the E-208, giving local buyers another option in the slowly-growing field of EVs in this market.
The latest Peugeot 208 hatch is not available in Australia, unfortunately. But soon the local arm will be launching the electric version. More specifically, it’s scheduled to arrive in 2024. That’ll be some five years after the E-208 was first unveiled overseas in 2019.
Local specifications are yet to be locked in, however, we can probably turn to the overseas model for a good indication. In Europe the E-208 originally used a 50kWh battery to provide energy to a 100kW front-mounted electric motor.
However, Peugeot’s parent company, Stellantis, announced an update for the model in 2021, introducing a 51kWh battery and boosted power up to 115kW and 260Nm. The updated system saw the WLTP range increase from 340km to 362km. Another update has since been announced taking the range up to 400km (subject to final approval).
Users can recharge at 11kW using a three-phase AC plug, or up to 100kW using a DC fast-charger. Peugeot says it is possible to go from 20-80 per cent charge in under 25 minutes.
Speaking of speed, the initial E-208 with 100kW offered a 0-100km/h claim of 8.1 seconds. With 15kW more power, we suspect this might drop to 8.0 or into the high 7s. We also suspect Australia will receive said updated version. Speaking about the confirmation, Kate Gillis, managing director at Peugeot Australia, said:
“As we continue to broaden our electrified offering, the new E-208 will strengthen our range as we re-enter the small hatch market in Australia. We are confident the E-208’s exciting electric performance and eye-catching design will appeal to that segment’s customer.”
Peugeot Australia says it will be announcing more details in the lead up to its arrival in 2024, however, potential customers can register their interest via the official 208 web page here to keep up to date.
