Peugeot L500 R Hybrid concept unveiled
The just unveiled Peugeot L500 R Hybrid concept marks 100 years since Peugeot's 1916 Indianapolis 500 triumph.
Under the skin, the L500 R Hybrid is said to use a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with an electric motor for each axle, and a 201kW petrol engine. Working together all three motors can generate a maximum total output of 373kW of power and 730Nm of torque.
According to Peugeot, the L500 R Hybrid tips the scales at around 1000 kilograms. As such, it's able to complete the 0-100km/h dash in 2.5 seconds, and race past the 1000 metre mark in 19 seconds.
The L500 R Hybrid concept is said to be a modern tribute to the L45 race car. Driven by Dario Resta and powered by a 4.5-litre engine, the L45 averaged 135km/h during its win at the 1916 Indianapolis 500.
In the interests of aerodynamics, the L500 R stands just one metre high and features a solitary seat rather than the L45's two-seat layout. Like the L45, the L500 is finished in a red, blue and black paint scheme.
Once inside the L500 R's snug cockpit, the driver can enable a virtual co-pilot via the car's virtual reality headset.
The 100th Indianapolis 500 takes place this weekend — the Memorial Day long weekend in the States. Although there are no Peugeot powered entries, Australian Will Power is starting on the second row and has a shot at becoming the first Aussie to win the storied race.