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Peugeot e-Legend concept revealed

Velour is back, baby! More than that, blue velour...


Peugeot has dipped into its heritage to provide a glimpse into the future, revealing a stunning and yet futuristic electric-powered coupe inspired by its iconic two-door 504. And yep, its interior is draped in sumptuous blue velour.

The e-Legend concept has been revealed today ahead of its public debut at the Paris motor show next month, showcasing a retro-flavoured vision for the car of tomorrow that can be both driverless and fun to drive depending on your mood and the environment.

The sharp silhouette harks back to the original Pininfarina-penned 504 Coupe that was built between 1969 and 1979, complete with a modern interpretation of its signature four headlight face and Peugeot's iconic shield in its nose.

Measuring 4650mm in length, 1930mm wide, standing just 1370mm tall and riding on a 2690mm wheelbase with 19-inch alloy fillings its guards, the two-plus-two-seater e-Legend is significantly larger than the original 504 Coupe but maintains its gorgeous proportions with an expansive glass house sitting on top of its angular body.

Under the bonnet, the car is driven by a 340kW/800Nm electric powertrain that uses 100kW/h batteries to deliver acceleration from 0-100km in less than four seconds, a top speed over 220km/h and a total driving range of approximately 600km on the latest WLTP real-world test protocol.

The battery pack can be recharged to offer 500km of range within 25 minutes using a fast charging network.

Just as interesting is the variety of driving modes offered, with two levels of fully autonomous capability and two settings for those that like to take control.

Showcasing the future of the company's i-Cockpit concept, the e-Legend can be driven in either Cruise or Boost modes. The former has a digital instrument cluster reminiscent of the 504 Coupe while a 49-inch colour screen across the dash displays a digital woodgrain effect. In the Boost mode, the driver has a 180-degree view of the road on the screen.

As an autonomous vehicle, the small steering wheel retracts into the dash, the plush H-shaped seats recline, the armrests disappear for more storage space and a wireless phone charging portal while the main controls for the audio and ventilation remain useable as the centre console is fixed between the seats.

Occupants can choose to be driven in either a Soft or Sharp mode. The Soft mode reduces the proection of digital information on the screens to a minimum for a relaxed atmosphere while Sharp offers maximum connectivity with access to the internet, social networks and business tools.

Peugeot says they can even play a video game or watch movies on the curved screen or via the displays built-in to the sun visors.

Working with Soundhound, the e-Legend has an artificial intelligence personal assistant system that can operate functions with natural language recognition. Peugeot says a production-ready version of the system will be available in its cars within the next two years.

 

 

 

 

Andrew Maclean

As Editor in Chief of the Drive Network, Amac is one of Australia's most experienced automotive journalists with more than 25 years experience in newspapers, magazines, broadcasting and digital media.

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