Peugeot 408 goes all-electric

The Peugeot 408 has been available only as a hybrid since its last update two years ago. Now, an all-electric version has launched with a range of up to 453 km (281 miles). Preorders are already being processed.

The Peugeot e-408 comes equipped with just one electric motor tuned to deliver 210 PS (207 hp / 154 kW) and 345 Nm (254 lb-ft) of torque. The catch is, the car only outputs this much in Sport mode or when you push the pedal all the way down for rapid acceleration.

In Normal mode, the output stays capped at 190 PS (187 hp / 140 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). A mode called Eco drops the power consumption and further lowers the output to 170 PS (168 hp / 125 kW) and 270 Nm (200 lb-ft).

The range mentioned above is only attainable in the Eco mode, Peugeot admits. The battery on board consists of nickel-manganese-cobalt cells and can hold up to 58.2 kilowatt-hours. Charging it is possible from a 11kW home charger or a DC outlet rated up to 120kW. The latter lets you top up the charge from 20 to 80 percent in half an hour.

In its most basic trim version, the e-408 features LED headlights, 19-inch wheels, an infotainment system with a 10-inch screen and six speakers, heating options, a two-zone HVAC and lots of driving aids. Paying extra unlocks matrix LEDs, ambient lighting, air purification, Focal audio, power tailgate, aluminum accents and other niceties.