Range Boost Puts e-208 Ahead of the Pack
Peugeot‘s best-selling e-208 has received a significant upgrade for 2024, now offering an impressive 268 miles of WLTP range from its new 51kWh battery. That’s a 10.5% improvement over the previous model, making it the current range leader in the competitive B-segment EV market. The upgrade comes courtesy of a new NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery chemistry that delivers improved energy density without increasing physical size.
Tech That Goes Both Ways
More significant than the range boost might be the introduction of bidirectional charging capability. Using the new 11kW three-phase onboard charger (a £500 option), the e-208 can now:
- Power your home during outages (vehicle-to-home)
- Charge other EVs (vehicle-to-vehicle)
- Feed energy back to the grid (vehicle-to-grid where available)
This tech transforms the e-208 from mere transport into a mobile energy storage unit, though you’ll need compatible home equipment to take full advantage.
Performance and Charging Upgrades
The powertrain remains familiar but gets subtle improvements:
- 154hp electric motor (same output but more efficient)
- 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds (marginally quicker than before)
- 100kW DC fast charging (10-80% in 25 minutes)
- New regenerative braking modes for one-pedal driving
Peugeot claims the updated model maintains the same engaging handling characteristics that made the original e-208 one of the more entertaining small EVs to drive. The steering remains direct, and the compact dimensions make it ideal for urban environments.
Subtle Visual Tweaks Inside and Out
While the basic shape remains unchanged, sharp eyes will spot:
- New ’48’ badging (referencing Stellantis group platform)
- Revised LED lighting signatures
- Fresh wheel designs up to 17 inches
- New interior trim options including sustainable materials
The cabin retains its excellent i-Cockpit layout with 3D digital instruments and 10-inch touchscreen, now with improved software response times. Practicality remains strong with 311 litres of boot space – identical to the petrol 208.
Pricing and Competition
Starting at £31,850 after the UK government grant, the updated e-208 faces stiff competition from:
- Renault 5 E-Tech (£25,000-£30,000 est.) – retro styling, new platform
- Vauxhall Corsa Electric (£32,445) – same platform, less range
- MINI Electric (£32,550) – more fun, less practical
The upcoming Renault 5 represents the biggest threat with its retro-chic design and promised 248-mile range at a potentially lower price point. However, the e-208 counters with its more premium interior and that class-leading 268-mile range.
With these upgrades, Peugeot’s e-208 remains one of the smartest choices in the small EV segment. Now we’re just waiting to see how the Renault 5 stacks up in real-world driving…
