The automotive market is slowly but surely filling with hybrids, CNG vehicles and all-electrics from around the world. While this market will become more competitive over time, market niches like scooters and commercial vehicles remain woefully underdeveloped. French automaker is delving into the hybrid scooter niche with the HYbrid3 Evolution scooter presented at the Milan International Cycle and Motorbike Show. This three-wheel scooter builds on the design of the HYbrid3 model presented at the 2008 Paris Motor Show.
The Peugeot HYbrid3 Evolution is powered by a 30kW gas engine mounted near the rear wheel. The front wheels and rear wheel produce 3kW of power with lithium-ion batteries. Peugeot outfitted this concept scooter with a regenerative braking system to store energy in the batteries. These drive system components are connected electronically rather than mechanically to ensure responsive steering and acceleration. The HYbrid3 Evolution contains an anti-lock braking system (ABS) connected to all three wheels to decrease braking distance significantly compared to traditional scooters. This hybrid scooter also offers an engine cutoff feature to eliminate emissions and fuel use at full stops.
Peugeot plans to use the HYbrid3 Evolution’s drive system and styling for future vehicle models instead of promising a direct production version of this scooter. The feature in this concept Peugeot consumers should hope for in future scooters is the trio of drive modes offered with the push of a button. The Peugeot HYbrid3 Evolution starts out in all-electric mode, which offers emissions-free power at ignition and low speeds. Riders can switch to all-gas power to reach peak power while driving on the highway. Peugeot also features a gas/electric combination mode for power boosts and driving in adverse road conditions.
Peugeot noted at Milan that it will produce the HYbrid4 3008 starting in 2011, which will feature a rear-mounted electric motor and similar design to the HYbrid3. The elements combined in the HYbrid3 Evolution equal a great concept that will be used as a template for future models. The Peugeot HYbrid3 and HYbrid4 models may make bigger splashes in Europe but it presents a challenge to automakers worldwide to expand their boundaries. The automotive industry should focus not only on hybrid passenger vehicles but cleaner scooters, motorcycles, commercial vehicles and other conveyances that are overlooked.
