Peugeot has officially unveiled the all-electric version of its 408 model, an innovative hatchback saloon featuring SUV-like elements. Previously available with combustion, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the new e-408 is now open for orders, with a starting price of âŹ46,600.
First introduced in 2022, the 408’s electrification process has seen the rollout of various hybrid models, with the electric variant finally making its debut. The e-408 is equipped with a 157 kW electric motor and a 58.2 kWh NMC battery, marking its introduction alongside the Stellantis brand lineup.
Peugeot describes the 408 as featuring a âfastback silhouette in the upper C segment,â blending saloon and SUV characteristics with an elevated stance and protective plastic cladding around the wheel arches.
In terms of design philosophy, Peugeot follows a similar approach to its sister brand Citroën, particularly with the C5 X, which has a slightly raised estate car profile. While the C5 X measures 4.80 meters, making it longer than the 408 at 4.69 meters, both vehicles share an identical wheelbase of 2.79 meters. The boot capacities are also comparable, with the 408 offering between 536 and 1,611 liters, while the C5 X provides between 545 and 1,640 liters.
Both models are built on the EMP2 platform, which also underpins the Peugeot e-308. However, the e-408 benefits from enhancements, including a more powerful 157 kW electric motor, akin to those found in the E-3008 and E-5008 models.
This synchronous electric motor, featuring permanent magnets, delivers 345 Nm of torque and is manufactured through a Stellantis-Nidec joint venture. The vehicle’s battery configuration includes 18 modules with a cell chemistry comprising 80% nickel, 10% manganese, and 10% cobalt, though the supplier for these batteries remains unspecified.
Charging capabilities for the e-408 include 11 kW AC and 120 kW DC, enabling a fast charge from 20 to 80 percent in just over 30 minutes, which may be seen as modest for a model launched in 2024. The full dimensions of the e-408 are 4.69 x 1.85 x 1.49 meters, with a wheelbase of 2.79 meters.
The boot capacity is rated at 471 liters, expanding to 1,545 liters when the rear seats are folded down. Additionally, the vehicle is designed with an aerodynamic underbody and includes a heat pump to enhance energy efficiency.
The e-408 features a sporty aesthetic characterized by its fastback silhouette, complemented by a robust black rear bumper and a cohesive design for the front radiator grille and bumper. The model is fitted with 19-inch wheels and offers five color options: Okenite White, Obsession Blue, Selenium Grey, Elixir Red, and Perla Nera Black.
Customers can choose between the Allure and GT equipment variants. The base Allure model includes LED headlights, 19-inch alloy wheels, the âPEUGEOT i-Cockpitâ operating system with a 10-inch instrument cluster, navigation, voice control, and an audio system with six speakers. Additionally, features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, a rear parking camera, and heated seats and steering wheel are standard.
The GT variant enhances the Allure features with Matrix LED headlights, front parking assistance, customizable ambient lighting, aluminum door sills, a sensor-controlled tailgate, and a Drive Assist Plus package for semi-autonomous driving support (Level 2).
The e-408 will be produced at Peugeot’s Mulhouse plant, and the manufacturer offers a warranty of up to 8 years or 160,000 kilometers. With the introduction of the e-408, Peugeotâs electric vehicle range expands to a total of twelve electric cars and light commercial vehicles, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to electric mobility in the automotive market.
