Peugeot Teases US with BEV Concept Debut

Probably the most striking aspect of Peugeot’s debut of its Inception Concept car at 2023 Consumer Electronics Show is why the brand chose the Las Vegas event.

That’s because its concept could quite easily, and understandably, been unveiled at the automaker’s domestic Paris Motor Show 2022 instead. However, what it does suggest is that parent company Stellantis is eyeing up a Peugeot return to the US market after more than two decades.

In a group statement, the concept is designed on one of the four “BEV-by-design” STLA platforms to enter production from this year. Created for electrification, they claim major differences in terms of architecture and creating a new driving posture and a new on-board experience for passengers.

The concept’s STLA Large platform has provides the silhouette of a low and efficient saloon, measuring 4.4ft high while being 16.4ft long. The platforms will also introduce technological modules powered by artificial intelligence: STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit and STLA Autodrive.

Powertrain

The BEV powertrain is driven by a 800-volt system with a beefy 100kWh battery pack claiming a single charge range of up to 497 miles and an energy consumption of only 12.5kWh per 62 miles. The battery charges the equivalent of 18.6 miles of range in one minute, or 93 miles in five minutes. The concept can also be recharged by induction, simplifying this step without the need for a cable.

Two compact electric motors, one at the front, the other at the rear, make the vehicle a four-wheel drive and the combined power is close to 670bhp. Acceleration from 0 to 62mph is expected to be in under 3 seconds.

Another standout feature is the comparative lack of a dashboard. While other trumpet full-width multi infotainment displays, the concept provides information solely visible to the driver. All cabin furniture is located lower down and, opposite the seats, the minimal cockpit, which can be retracted when driving is in automated mode, is dedicated to the driver alone. The dashboard is no more, as well as the crossbar and the bulkhead. With this completely open view of the road, the occupants can see and experience the journey’s progress better, says the automaker.

Linda Jackson, CEO of Peugeot, said: “In 2023, 100% of the vehicles in the range will be electrified and in the next two years, five new 100% electric models will be launched. Our ambition is simple: to make Peugeot the leading electric brand in Europe by 2030. This objective and ambitious vision pave the way for a radical transformation for the Brand. It is embodied today in the Peugeot Inception Concept which marks the beginning of a new era!”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_