Peugeot has extended its diesel hybrid technology programme, applying it to the popular, stylish and versatile 307 CC Hybride HDi, unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in February. This diesel hybrid technological demonstrator highlights the company’s commitment to protecting the environment by reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, while operating with the practicalities of real world use.

By combining a 1.6-litre HDi diesel engine with a DPFS (Diesel Particle Filter System) and an electric power train, this technological demonstrator is effectively a new step on the path to reducing fuel consumption. The 307 CC Hybride HDi joins the 307 hatchback, announced in January, to lead diesel hybrid development in readiness for possible introduction in 2010.

In use, the hybrid electric/diesel powertrain heralds a genuine new benchmark in terms of fuel consumption, since it combines the exceptional efficiency of the 1.6-litre Hdi engine, running in its optimal operating range, with that of the electric motor designed mainly for use in town. A mixed-cycle fuel consumption of nearly 70mpg means a gain of some 30% compared to the standard HDi model.

The combination of a hybrid power train and a HDi diesel engine signals a real breakthrough in terms of low fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The gain, compared to a similar vehicle with a petrol hybrid power train, is around 25%.