Trust the French to do things differently and the e-2008 is Peugeot’s attempt at a sensible electric crossover overflowing with Gallic charm. Price-wise, the car straddles different segments and is cheaper than the likes of the BMW iX1 or even the Mercedes EQA with a starting price of $59,990 plus on-road costs but traditionally locks horns with more serious contenders in the EV sphere – notably the Tesla Model Y (AU$65,400) and the BYD Atto 3 (AU$48,011).
However, the e-2008’s arsenal does look slightly muted against the Tesla because it simply doesn’t have the range or power to compete on paper. Nonetheless, our short week with the car told us this is a capable European electric SUV for those who yearn for something different.
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Unlike other electric cars, Peugeot has not done anything radical to make the e-2008 stand out and shares the vast majority of its looks with the internal combustion-engined version. This will appeal to those who don’t want to feel like they’re driving around in an isolated mobile phone.
Being French, it’s a good-looking car with plenty of rakish lines and the typical Peugeot flamboyance. Inside, it is also a riot of cuts and creases while quality is pleasing along with generous equipment levels.
Ergonomically though, it might seem a bit fussy with the steering wheel controls especially. You get Peugeot’s i-cockpit with a 10-inch screen along with the usual smartphone connectivity options while plush Nappa leather seats, massage function for the driver, dual-zone climate control and more. Space remains the same as before but you do get the feeling of sitting slightly knees up probably due to the battery. That said, the 434-litre boot capacity is the same as the standard 2008.
In terms of power, the e-2008 has a single front motor developing a modest 134bhp and 260Nm while the 50kWh lithium-ion battery pack will deliver a claimed range of 328km (WLTP). These might be lower than some other EVs at this price, but as a city-based EV, the car packs enough and instead puts its focus in terms of being a calming family SUV.
There are no EV histrionics but it goes about its business smoothly. Compared to the combustion engine 2008, the electric version is more than 300kgs heavier but that does not show in the dynamic traits with a well-composed driving experience.
Fast DC charging is available with 100kW capability meaning a 30-minute top-up time while it will take 7 hours and 30 minutes to do the same via a 7.4kW Wall box unit.
Overall, the e-2008 is not about speed or range but instead putting the limelight on blurring the lines between the transition from combustion engine to EV- which should appeal to many.
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