The Peugeot 48V Hybrid—as the system is called—replaces the PureTech 130 (the same powertrain found in the Philippine spec Peugeot 2008). This pairs their next-generation turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder with an electric motor.

The gasoline engine itself produces a healthy 136 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm thanks to a variable geometry turbo and a Miller cycle operation for better combustion efficiency. It also uses a timing chain for lower maintenance cost.

Meanwhile, the permanent synchronous motor develops 28 horsepower and 55 Nm of torque allowing for pure electric drive at low torque requirements. During deceleration, it also acts as a generator to recharge the 48-volt 432-Wh lithium-ion battery stored under the front left seat.

New also to the Peugeot 48V Hybrid system is a 6-speed dual clutch that also happens to house the electric engine, inverter, and ECU. This replaces the current 8-speed automatic.

In everyday driving, the combustion and electric engines work together or separately to optimize energy consumption. During strong acceleration, the electric engine provides additional power (up to 12 horsepower) and torque to the petrol engine at low revs to compensate for turbo lag, while during deceleration, the gas engine cuts out and the electric motor becomes a generator to recharge the 48-volt battery. The vehicle drives solely with the electric engine in zero emission mode, in the city over short distances and when maneuvering up to 50 percent of the time.

Models equipped with the Peugeot 48V Hybrid system will come equipped with an AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System) which emits a sound outside at up to 30 km/h to warn pedestrians and cyclists that the vehicle is approaching.