Peugeot’s diesel hybrid concept, the Prologue, came a step closer to production today when the French firm signed a component supply deal with Bosch.
Bosch will supply hybrid parts including the electric motors to bring the technology into mainstream production.
The motors will be coupled with a Peugeot 2.0-litre diesel engine and Peugeot claims that the hybrid powertrain generate in excess of 200bhp, while achieving more than 65mpg.
The French manufacturer’s ‘HYmotion4’ diesel hybrid powertrain has been previewed in the Prologue and used in its Le Mans racer.
The system works by allowing the diesel engine to drive the front wheels and the electric motors to drive the rear wheels.
This eliminates the need for heavy differentials and drive shafts usually associated with all-wheel-drive, reducing weight and further improving economy.
The first production Peugeot diesel hybrids are expected to arrive in 2011.
