Is every hybrid eco? This question is being asked by more and more drivers who are considering buying a hybrid car. It is easy to get lost in the maze of offers, so let’s take a closer look at one of the popular models – Peugeot 308 with a 1.2 mHEV engine. We will check whether this “mild hybrid” really allows for savings and whether it is environmentally friendly.
Spis treści
What’s under the hood?
Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV is a car with a mild hybrid system, i.e. the so-called mild hybrid. This means that the 1.2 PureTech petrol engine works with a small electric motor that supports it during acceleration and recovers energy when braking.
The main components of a hybrid system are:
- 1.2 PureTech petrol engine: available in 110 hp or 130 hp versions.
- Electric motor: integrated with starter motor and alternator (BISG).
- 48V battery: stores energy recovered during braking.
How does it work in practice?
Unlike plug-in hybrids, the Peugeot 308 mHEV cannot run on an electric motor alone. The electric motor plays a supporting role, and its main tasks are:
- Supporting the combustion engine when accelerating: This allows the car to react more dynamically to the accelerator.
- Energy recovery during braking: Instead of losing kinetic energy, the mHEV system converts it into electrical energy and stores it in the battery.
- Enabling the start-stop function: the system switches off the combustion engine smoothly when the engine is stationary and restarts it when the driver presses the accelerator pedal.
Fuel savings – how much do we gain?
The manufacturer declares that the Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV allows you to reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% compared to the version with only a gasoline engine. In practice, the savings depend on the driving style and road conditions.
The greatest benefits of the mHEV system will be felt in the city, where frequent braking and acceleration promote energy recovery. On the road and on the highway, the impact of the hybrid system on fuel consumption will be reduced.
Is it an ecological solution?
MHEV is a technology that is primarily aimed at reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Compared to traditional combustion cars, the Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV emits less harmful substances into the atmosphere.
However, it should be remembered that mHEV is not the same as a plug-in hybrid or an electric car. The environmental impact is lower, but we are still talking about a vehicle that is mainly powered by an internal combustion engine.
Who is the Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV for?
Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV is an offer for drivers who:
- They are looking for an economical car to drive mainly in the city.
- They care about dynamic driving.
- They want to contribute to environmental protection, but they are not ready to buy an electric car .
Advantages and disadvantages of Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV:
Advantages:
- Lower fuel consumption compared to the petrol version.
- Improved dynamics thanks to electric motor support.
- Smooth operation of the start-stop system.
- Modern design and rich equipment.
- Driving comfort and good handling.
Disadvantages:
- Reduced fuel efficiency on the road.
- Higher price compared to the petrol version.
- Lower environmental impact than plug-in hybrids and electric cars.
Summary
Peugeot 308 Hybrid 1.2 mHEV is an interesting proposition for those looking for an economical and dynamic car. mHEV technology reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, especially in urban traffic. However, it should be remembered that this is an intermediate solution that does not offer the same ecological benefits as plug-in hybrids or electric cars.
Source: https://www.topgear.com/sites/default/files/2022/05/037.jpg
