Peugeot is adding the GTi lineup, which boasts 40 years of heritage, to the electric model of its global best-selling subcompact hatchback, the 208, marking the official opening of the electric hot hatch market.
On the 13th (local time), Peugeot unveiled the Peugeot e-208 GTi, which achieves the best performance in the B segment electric vehicle category, for the first time in the world at the 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit in France. The e-208 GTi is the first all-electric GTi model in the history of Peugeot GTi and is a next-generation electric hatchback that encapsulates the brand's technological prowess with its iconic design.
The Peugeot GTi lineup has inherited performance heritage through various models including the 205 GTi, launched in 1984, along with the 306, 206, 207, and 208.
Among them, the 205 GTi was evaluated as a new standard for subcompact hatchbacks with powerful performance, driving pleasure, restrained design, and practicality, winning numerous victories in motorsports such as rallying. Subsequently, the GTi established itself as an icon representing Peugeot's technological prowess and identity. The newly unveiled e-208 GTi continues the symbolism by inheriting and reinterpreting this GTi legacy in a modern way.
In keeping with the GTi name that has continued for 40 years, the e-208 GTi boasts class-leading performance, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, with a maximum speed of 180 km/h, based on the M4+ electric motor with a maximum output of 280 horsepower and 345 Nm of peak torque.
Along with powerful output, cornering performance has also been significantly enhanced. Equipped with an integrated deceleration limited-slip differential (LSD), it provides outstanding agility, efficiency, and stability even in sharp corners. It is powered by a 54 kWh battery from CATL, and through a dedicated cooling system and optimized energy management technology, it maintains stable performance in high-output driving environments.
The exterior pays homage to the design identity of the 205 GTi, the starting point of Peugeot GTi and a legend. The body is 30 mm lower compared to the existing e-208, and the track has been widened both front and rear to provide a more robust and stable stance. The red body color reminiscent of the 205 GTi, 18-inch punched wheels bearing the 'GTi' logo, and wheel arches emphasized with red lines highlight its sporty identity.
The interior features red carpeting and seatbelts, along with GTi exclusive sports seats with red stripes, and a GTi exclusive compact steering wheel trimmed with punched red leather and Alcantara material, completing the unique sensibility and immersion of the GTi.
Peugeot CEO Alain Pavan noted, "The Peugeot e-208 GTi is a groundbreaking model that opens a new chapter in the symbolic history of the GTi," adding, "Peugeot prioritizes driving pleasure, and through the e-208 GTi, which merges Peugeot's rich heritage and cutting-edge technology, we will provide exceptional performance and driving enjoyment, setting a new standard in the hot hatch market."
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