Test Peugeot e-3008 GT 210: in the age of electricity, the lion leaves its throne

The start-up procedure for e-3008 is similar to that of the thermal models. Peugeot has retained the start button which a long press is necessary, as if to activate the internal combustion engine. The car control is next to it, while the parking brake, fortunately automatically, is placed on the central console.

But the limitations inherited from hot cars unfortunately do not end there. So the e-3008 features the so-called STLA Medium multi-power platform of the other 3008s, which is therefore not dedicated to power. It is this technological choice that accounts for the e-3008’s extremely high volume. It weighs 2183 kg in working order, and remember that we are testing a version that will be lighter. In comparison, the Renault Scenic E-Tech weighs “only” 1747 kg in the version of comfort freedom and 1853 kg in the version of long-term freedom. In this scheme, the bay separates the two models.

The batteries of the e-3008 alone weigh 520 kg. Indeed, in order to provide greater freedom, the SUV does not rely mainly on the search for efficiency at all costs, but rather on a large battery capacity (73 kWh necessary for the “small” battery). This is even more surprising as Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, recently admitted about electric cars with about 500 kg of batteries: “From an environmental point of view … I don’t think it makes sense” (source: Reuters)

With such handicaps, this e-3008 cannot claim a change from previous versions (the 1.2 PureTech model weighed only 1320 kg empty). However, let’s highlight the work of Peugeot engineers who, without escaping the laws of physics, have managed to produce a successful front axle that contributes to a certain driving pleasure. We are certainly far from the previous models, but nothing too big.

The body movements are also controlled, but with the loss of a dynamic suspension which, associated with the large 20″ rims of the GT model, causes vibrations. We would be happy if Peugeot offered a controlled damping to satisfy all drivers. softer either.

On the other hand, we appreciate the amazing lightness of this e-3008 and its turning radius of only 10.6 m between curbs. It is better than most models of this size.

In terms of performance, the electric motor sends up to 157 kW (210 hp) of power and 345 Nm of torque to the front wheels. 0 to 100 km / h is achieved in 8.8 seconds, which is more than enough, but it is clear that you are not attached to the seats like on board other electric cars. The maximum speed of 170 km / h is not very high, but it should not be a problem on French roads.

The E-3008 allows you to adjust its energy recovery when you lift your foot on three levels through a system of paddles behind the steering wheel. Unfortunately, it is not possible to go all the way to the stop, crawling is set, nor to completely cut off the recovery when lifting the leg. Almost, because of the latter it made two mistakes during our test, which rewarded us with a unique “freewheel” mode. Something surprising! A simple visual alert lasting a few seconds warned us of the temporary unavailability of power saving, without even an audible signal.

While the energy recovery works, it unfortunately causes a spongy feel to the brake pedal. Its consistency is not completely homogeneous, nor the effect of the pedal for that matter. Depending on the driving phase (crawling or recovering energy when lifting the leg), braking seems more or less painful, which is disturbing to say the least.

In terms of driving equipment, Peugeot has managed to comply with the new GSR 2 regulations, which require certain systems to be restarted every time you start, but without making them too intrusive. So we are less tempted to turn them off than other models.

As an option, it is also possible to choose a level 2 autonomous driving system that, to some extent, controls the transmission, initiated by the driver. In fact, after checking the possibility of a maneuver and setting our indicator, it is necessary to press the “OK” button on the steering wheel to confirm the pass. The car then controls the steering wheel, making sure that the driver’s hands are not off the steering wheel. At this point, e-3008 does not need a push in the direction to remind us of our presence, which is appreciable. Hands only need to be placed on the steering wheel for them to be detected. On the other hand, we noticed a lack of attention when the center in the path is turned off, when the path splits for example.