Peugeot will launch the 100% electric version of the 308 in 2023, i.e. one year after the arrival in dealerships of the electric Mégane E-Tech. Should Renault fear this new competitor? First elements of response.
The 308 adds another string to its bow. Already offered with two rechargeable hybrid blocks, it will be available in 2023 in a 100% electric version. Thus motorized, it will come to tackle the new Mégane, which this summer took control of the French market in terms of electric vehicles.
Peugeot and Renault took opposite paths for these models. While the Losange offers a new vehicle on a dedicated electric basis, the CMF-EV, the Lion has decided to electrify the current 308, with the EMP2 platform. There is no question of one of the new STLA bases yet.
Should we then be afraid of lower benefits for the e-308? Before comparing these models in real life next year, we offer you a first comparison of their technical characteristics.
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The 308 is targeting the mid-range
Since its launch, the Mégane has offered two power levels: 96 kW, or 130 hp, and 160 kW, or 220 hp. There are also two battery capacities: 40 and 60 kWh (usable capacity). The first goes with low power, the second with high power, except for an optimized Evolution ER version of 130 hp with 60 kWh battery.
Peugeot is content for the moment with a single variant, with new elements. Forget the 100 kW motor and 50 kWh battery of the other electric models in the group. Here, the power is 115 kW, or 156 hp. The brand therefore plays the mid-range aspect, not seeking to race for power. No problem, it is indeed not really useful for the client. However, the manufacturer has not yet communicated performance values.
On the battery side, the e-308 announces 54 kWh in gross capacity, and 51 kWh in useful capacity. This version is thus placed between the two offers of the Mégane. Unsurprisingly, the latter will keep the advantage of maximum autonomy. If its basic version announces 300 km, the EV60 version promises 450 km, or even 470 km in Evolution ER. On the side of Peugeot, we promise a little over 400 km.
Which isn’t too bad considering the size of the battery, but might seem fair with a fairly family-oriented compact vehicle. More than autonomy, Peugeot highlights the consumption of the e-308. Thanks to aerodynamic improvements (for the front end and the underbody) and the use of tires that limit friction losses, Peugeot announces a record consumption of 12.7 kWh per 100 km. The best Mégane is homologated at 15.5 kWh!
More powerful charging at Renault
The Mégane can regain the advantage on the charging side, where the 308 is lagging behind. In alternating current, the latter announces 11 kW. In direct current it is up to 100 kW max. For the Renault, the cheapest version is satisfied with a 7.4 kW alternating current recharge (standard charge). It is 22 kW with the “boost” and “optimum” versions. On the direct current side, it’s 85 kW in the “boost” version and 130 kW for the “super” and “optimum”.
If the EMP2 platform seems to limit the technical characteristics of the e-308, it can give the advantage on life on board. However, Peugeot has not yet given the trunk volume of this electric version, volume which can be impacted by the battery, as on the hybrid. Except bad surprise, the habitability should not change. The 308 could thus be more welcoming than the Mégane, where you can feel confined to the bench seat.
On the driver’s side, while the Renaults have long suffered from comparison with the Peugeots, the Mégane has set the record straight and is therefore up to date, with its OpenR system, two 12-inch screens for the instrumentation and infotainment, the latter taking advantage of Google connected services. The atmosphere is rather techno. It is also in the 308, but with packaging that seems more sporty to us. There are of course the elements of the i-Cockpit, including a small steering wheel and instrumentation in height. The central 10-inch screen is complemented by a bar of customizable touch keys.
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So, are you more consumption or autonomy?
Clearly, playing the card of the mid-range version, the e-308 does not display the best data against the Mégane, which leaves a technical choice. In addition, Peugeot may be taking a risk by betting first on consumption. The e-308 better keep that promise.
If the model is not as efficient, autonomy will melt away. However, it is still the purchase criterion that prevails for most customers, especially when we arrive in more family categories, and that the Mégane will put forward. For those who make more long journeys, the Renault also has the advantage of fast charging which takes less time. It therefore looks more versatile.
Peugeot will also have to pay attention to the prices, which are feared high while the services are average. We see that an e-2008 already starts at €38,750. For 1,500 € more, we have the Megane EV60 super charge. However, the 308 has a nice trick up its sleeve: a more spacious station wagon version.
