Peugeot's EX1 Concept Breaks the Electric Car Record on the Nurburgring

It's not very often we hear about an electric car taking on the fearsome Nurburgring-Nordschleife track. A concept version of an EV is an even rarer sight on the “Green Hell”, but that's exactly what Peugeot did as it put the EX1 design study at work on the world's toughest circuit.

It wasn't just a pleasure ride, however, since Peugeot visited the ‘Ring to break the lap record for electric cars. And it did, with driver Stéphane Caillet lapping the 20.8-kilometer (12.92-mile) long track in 9 minutes and 1.338 seconds, at an average speed of 138,324 km/h (85.95 mph), in “very unfavorable weather conditions”, according to the French automaker. The previous lap record set by an electric car belonged to the Mini E racer, which lapped the German track last year in 9 minutes and 51.45 seconds.

WIGE Performance, the official timekeeper of the Nordschleife track, tracked Peugeot’s record. Revealed at the Paris motor show last year, the EX1 roadster is powered by a pair of electric motors, one on each axle, thus offering four-wheel drive. Each electric motor produces 125 kW (170HP) for a combined output of 340HP and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. Energy comes from a high-output lithium-ion battery pack.

The radical-looking concept measures just 0.90 meters in height and 1.77 meters in width and makes use of a monocoque body structure manufactured from a carbon/honeycomb composite to optimize weight and rigidity.

Peugeot has promised to share a video of the EX1 lapping the Nurburgring. Once it’s out, we’ll update this story.

By Dan Mihalascu

PHOTO GALLERY

Peugeot's Geneva Motor Show Debuts Limited to 308 Facelift and Special Editions of RCZ and 3008 Hybrid4

Unless Peugeot is hiding a surprise in its pouch, the French carmaker's presence at the upcoming Geneva Salon will most likely go under the radar. Aside from the subtly facelifted 308 family which includes the hatchback models, an estate and the coupe-cabriolet, Peugeot's stand will also host the premiere of two limited edition models.

The first is the RCZ Asphalt which is based on the most potent variant of the coupe model with the 200-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, and is set to go on sale in Europe this spring. Exclusive features include a matt grey body colour, two-tone 19-inch alloy wheels and numerous other interior and exterior appointments.

The second model is a limited edition of the 3008 HYbrid4 crossover, which features a 163HP turbo diesel driving the front wheels and an 37HP electric motor at the rear for a maximum power output of 200-horses, a “zero emission” mode and an average fuel consumption of 74.4 mpg UK, equal to 3.8lt/100km and 61.9 mpg US. Production will be limited to 300 numbered cars, all of which get a Pearlescent White exterior finish and two-tone full leather trim.

The 308 facelift and the two special edition models will be joined by two older concept studies, the HR1 and EX1, plus the new 908 Le Mans race car which was unveiled by Peugeot Sport in February.

_______________________________GALLERY_______________________________

Peugeot Coaster, a Futuristic Car that Puts Safety First

The Peugeot Coaster futuristic concept car has been created by designer Kim Minchul. This vehicle offers an alternative for every day driving in the city, where everything is restricted, offering an entertaining ride for the driver.

The driver’s cabin has been projected to be separate from the passenger cabin, giving the driver the sensation of safety and allowing him to be completely focused during driving. With every move and turn, the Peugeot Coaster offers thrilling sensations thanks to its active rotating system, much like a ride from an amusement park.

This concept vehicle offers great mobility and a different way of freedom, which separates it from other means of transportation, giving a new value to driving, and making it fun and exciting, through its innovating system.[via]