Peugeot, the French automaker, has announced that its midsize sedan, the 508, will undergo a full EV redesign in a bid to rival Tesla’s Model 3 and Volkswagen’s ID.7. Despite many competitors, such as the Ford Mondeo and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, discontinuing their midsize sedans, Peugeot remains committed to the segment. The new model, set to debut after 2025, will come in both fastback and SW bodystyle options and incorporate Peugeot’s new styling language, as well as the latest technologies from Stellantis’ parts bin.
The successor to the 508 will ride on the new STLA architecture, allowing for greater range, faster charging rates, increased power output, and compatibility with advanced autonomous driving systems. The most fitting scenario for the EV sedan/estate is the STLA Medium architecture, set to offer up to 700 km (440 miles) of range and between 168-241 hp (125-180 kW / 170-245 PS) of power from each electric motor.
See also: Peugeot Announces Five New Electric Vehicles by 2025 and Improved Mild-Hybrid Technology
Peugeot’s CEO Linda Jackson has pledged to retain all of the current model lines in the automaker’s future range, confirming a new generation of the 508 in both bodystyles. Jackson has also pledged to offer EV variants of its entire range by 2025 before becoming an EV-only automaker in Europe by 2030.
The interior of the EV 508 is expected to feature recycled materials for the upholstery, futuristic styling inspired by the concept, and an advanced infotainment system that will be highly upgradeable. Peugeot wants to extend the lifecycle of its next-gen EVs, which is why designers are looking for ways of refreshing some of their components, including the cabin, along the way.
While the pictured vehicle is still in the early stages of development, Peugeot has given a teaser that shows a sleek body and sexy proportions thanks to the low-slung silhouette, the premium look of the surfacing, and the large-diameter alloy wheels. The successor of the 508 could also get a higher-riding stance, making it more desirable to buyers who are obsessed with SUVs and crossovers. At the same time, the sedan bodystyle will make it more aerodynamic than conventional SUVs, making it more efficient.
See also: Peugeot Confirms E-3008 and E-5008 Electric SUVs with Exceptional Range Up to 434 Miles
The current second-generation Peugeot 508 was introduced in 2018 and features a low-slung five-door fastback coupe-saloon bodystyle and an estate derivative. The last ICE-powered sedan by Peugeot will be facelifted in 2023 with mild styling updates and a heavily electrified powertrain mix that will include mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
As Peugeot continues its transition to an EV-only automaker in Europe, it remains to be seen whether the upcoming EV 508 will be named the E-508 or if Peugeot will switch to a new naming strategy for its future EVs. Nonetheless, Peugeot’s commitment to the midsize sedan segment demonstrates a continued desire to provide a full range of vehicles for consumers, regardless of their preferred bodystyle or powertrain.
