Peugeot to Showcase RC Hybrid Concept at Paris Motor Show
Peugeot has announced plans to debut an all-new performance hybrid concept at the Paris motor show in October. According to the French manufacturer, the car, known for now as the RC Clubs, (but whose final name will be confirmed at the show), will be a four-door, four seat GT Coupe with “highly innovative hybrid architecture.”
Peugeot claim that the car boasts 313bhp, with combined CO2 emissions of 109g/km. If true, this would make the RC Clubs easily the most powerful model in production by the French outfit, yet also one of the greenest. Moreover, when running at low speeds, the RC will be powered solely by an electric motor, meaning zero emissions at source, much the same as the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic Hybrid.
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Such green credentials would ensure that the RC could compete for a slice of the growing hybrid market, currently dominated by Japanese car-makers. However, at around 115 bhp, (around 200bhp less than the RC Clubs), the Japanese models won’t come close to rivalling the Peugeot’s performance.
According to Peugeot, the RC is “an exciting, eco-efficient vehicle which has all the characteristics that also ensures great driving enjoyment; a synthesis of ideas which demonstrates that respect for the environment and driving pleasure can be compatible.”
At the moment, Peugeot has not revealed whether or not the RC Clubs will make it to full commercial production. Realistically, it’s more likely that similar technology will form the basis for the 408, Peugeot’s planned follow up to its 407 saloon. As and when the company’s next generation hybrid does appear, it is likely to appeal to drivers looking for fuel-efficiency and environmental credentials, but also for a car that packs more of a punch in the performance stakes. If they get it right, it’s just possible that the French company could offer Tesla Roadster type thrills at a price rather closer to the Toyota Prius.
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Image Credits - Peugeot (PSA)
A beautiful concept, but I can’t help thinking ‘Audi A5′ when looking at it.