The coming-out of the new Peugeot 408 has generated a lot of interest. The new Peugeot model stands out for its sporty exterior design. For this reason, many followers of the brand are eager to see a PSE version in the 408 range. But is there any chance that the Peugeot 408 PSE will see the light of day? We tell you the reasons why it will not reach the market.
The new peugeot 408 has experienced a debut in society that has not been overlooked. The new Peugeot model has generated a lot of interest, and not only because of the body format that has been chosen. The followers of the French brand highlight, among other issues, the sporty and dynamic design that the exterior of the new 408 looks like. That is why, from the beginning, there has been speculation about the possibility of a PSE version reaching the market. .
What real chances are there that the Peugeot 408 PSE sees the light of day? The truth is that we bring bad news for Peugeot fans who want a more radical and exclusive 408. The manufacturer has shelved the idea of introducing a PSE version in the 408 range. But, what are the reasons why this option has been ruled out? Let’s go into detail.
There will not be a Peugeot 408 PSE
Peugeot’s PSE program has been led by Jean Philippe Imparato. The former CEO of Peugeot is currently the top leader of the Italian brand Alfa Romeo. In January of last year, Imparato, before his departure from Peugeot, confirmed that the only project on the table was neither more nor less than the Peugeot e-208 PSE. The sports version of the popular electric utility vehicle would see the light in 2023 taking advantage of the launch of the “facelift”.
Time later, in October 2021, it was decided to put an end to the PSE program. Therefore, the e-208 PSE has been cancelled. Linda Jackson herself, CEO of Peugeot, has closed this project. Let us also remember that at the time Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, asked the heads of the brands that make up this huge automobile conglomerate to cut costs to give priority to electrification.
The Peugeot 408 will not have a PSE version but it will have a 100% electric one
Peugeot had not originally planned the development of a 100% electric variant of the new 408. However, and as the brand itself has confirmed, the Peugeot e-408 will be a reality and will end up arriving at dealerships. The 408 is known internally with the code P54 and the decision to give the green light to its fully electric variant was made at the end of the turbulent year 2020. Something similar happened with the new Peugeot 308 that we can find on the market.
The leading role of PHEV technology in the 408 range
Another reason why the idea of a 408 PSE has become popular has to do neither more nor less than with the Peugeot 508 PSE. The French sedan, in its most extreme configuration, resorts to plug-in hybrid technology (PHEV). And, although the 408 is technically compatible with the 360 hp plug-in hybrid engine, Peugeot plans to put it aside and adopt the renewed PHEV technology that Stellantis will introduce in 2024. In addition, the cost of facing its implementation is not viable in the process of transition to the electric car.
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