It’s been over 20 years since Peugeot sold a new car in the United States, and the 500 horsepower Peugeot Quartz plug-in hybrid SUV concept has me thinking it’s time for the French automaker to make a comeback.
The Peugeot Quartz is the latest concept that takes a stunning design and applies a high-powered hybrid drivetrain to it. In this case the same 270 horsepower 1.6 liter turbocharged gas engine used for the Peugeot Exalt hybrid concept also drives the front wheels of the Quartz Concept. Powering the rear wheels are a pair of 85 kW electric motors which add another 230 horsepower to the equation, giving the Quartz a total combined output of approximately 500 horsepower. The concept rides on the new EMP2 platform, which underpins the 308 and Citroen C4 Picasso models, which is perhaps a nod towards production ambitions.
“With the Exalt and the Quartz concept, the brand is showcasing its vision of the high-end automotive market,” says Peugeot chief Maxime Picat. “Peugeot is committed to developing exclusive concepts for its customers through outstanding design, innovative materials and unparalleled sensations.”
The mineral grey paintjob is inspired rock crystal while the interior is decked out in some unique materials, including basalt (a rock formed when magma cools) and digitally-woven polyester fiber made from recycled plastic bottles. The 400-volt battery pack is said to provide 31 miles of all-electric driving, and while the Quartz probably won’t come to the market as-is, it’s an indication as to where Peugeot want’s to take the brand.
Perhaps that includes bringing it back to America?
Source: Gas 2.
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