Last weekend I tested Peugeots 508 four-door fastback sedan – as I said, at $59,840, a French car with real panache and sports flair, a great driver with a classy interior.

Peugeot Australia recently added a 508 plug-in Hybrid model suggesting it is “the company’s first steps on the journey towards electrification.”    In short, the 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine is combined with a 81kW electric motor powered by a 11.8kw’hour lithium ion battery, drive to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic.

Pure electric range quoted at 55kms.  So what are the 508 Hybrid benefits over the impressive pure petrol model. Few unfortunately. You pay $76,990, a staggering $17,150 more, charging capacity is a max 3.7kW, little more than a home power point, fast charging is out and with a max stated pure electric range of 55km, it takes 7 hours to charge.

The battery under the floor weighs 300 kilos so in effect you’re always carrying the equivalent of 4 passengers with you.  Given the added cost and minimal distance benefits of this plug-in hybrid it offers little over the pure petrol 508 – yes, it retains the smart styling and impressive interior but with technology moving fast to full electrification in the next few years its re-sale value would be very questionable.

I’m David Berthon.

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