Peugeot has developed an electric two-seater roadster concept car, the EX1. Ultra-light, the EX1 is and equipped with two electric motors—one on each axle—with peak output of 125 kW (250 kW / 340 bhp in total), and an immediately available constant maximum torque of 240 N·m (177 lb-ft) at the front and rear.
This mechanical architecture allows not only the optimization of weight distribution, but also four wheel drive. This reflects the positional benefits of HYbrid4 technology, available as standard on the 3008 from 2011, featuring an HDi FAP diesel engine at the front and an electric motor at the rear.
Its lightness, weight distribution and aerodynamics, the torque and power of its two electric motors and its high-output lithium-ion battery make capable of very rapid acceleration. Peugeot says that the EX1 concept car has already broken international acceleration records (approved by the International Automobile Federation) for an electric-powered terrestrial vehicle.
The EX1 concept car is based on an architecture shaped like a “water droplet”, with a rear section built around two closely set rear wheels. The driver and passenger climb into the passenger compartment through a reverse-opening door, giving access to the two sports bucket seats.
The driver, seated at floor level in a driving position that helps enhances the sense of excitement (legs outstretched), drives the vehicle with two control handles, providing an experience similar to that of an aircraft pilot or video game, Peugeot says.
As well as the presence of harnesses inside the car, the occupants are also protected by the height of the carbon passenger cell, which has sufficient overhead clearance to include a roll-over protection bar. Similarly, the wind deflector, perfectly integrated in terms of style, allows the car to be driven on a daily basis without a helmet.
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