Peugeot Hints at Return of Iconic 308 GTi as Electric Performance Future

Peugeot's legendary GTi badge is poised for a comeback, with CEO Alain Favey signaling strong consideration for an all-electric 308 GTi. This move follows the upcoming launch of the e-208 GTi, suggesting a broader strategy to electrify Peugeot's performance lineup.

Key Takeaways

• Peugeot CEO Alain Favey sees significant potential for an electric 308 GTi.
• The iconic GTi badge will first reappear on the e-208 GTi, launching at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
• Developing an affordable yet high-performance electric GTi presents technological and pricing challenges.
• Peugeot is focusing on performance hatchbacks, not SUVs, for its GTi range.

The Electric GTi Era Dawns

Peugeot is actively exploring the possibility of reviving the revered 308 GTi nameplate, this time in an all-electric format. CEO Alain Favey expressed optimism about the prospect, stating that a hot version of the electric 308 "makes a lot of sense." This sentiment comes as the brand prepares to reintroduce the GTi badge on the upcoming e-208 GTi, scheduled for its debut at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race.

Favey articulated his desire to build a comprehensive range of performance electric vehicles, with the e-308 being a prime candidate. "I would love to have a range of GTis, of course, so we're looking at options, possibilities with the technology that we have," he commented. He emphasized that any new GTi model must deliver a truly special and top-tier driving experience.

Navigating the Challenges of Electric Performance

Despite the enthusiasm, Favey acknowledged the hurdles in bringing an e-308 GTi to market. The primary challenge lies in sourcing technology that can deliver the expected performance while maintaining an affordable price point. "It's difficult to find technology that will allow us to get there at a price that is still affordable," he explained. "That's what we struggle to achieve at the moment - to find the technology and the right price balance."

Speculation suggests that the e-308 GTi could share its powertrain with the forthcoming Vauxhall Astra GSE, another Stellantis brand model. This potential setup involves a front-driven powertrain producing around 277 horsepower, likely complemented by a limited-slip differential, mirroring the approach taken with other electric GSE models from Vauxhall.

A Focus on Hatchbacks, Not SUVs

When questioned about expanding the GTi range further, Favey clarified Peugeot's strategic direction. Unlike some sister brands, Peugeot has no plans to introduce SUV variants under the GTi banner. "I don't think [an] SUV as a GTi makes a lot of sense," he stated, reinforcing the brand's commitment to the traditional hot hatch segment.

The upcoming e-208 GTi marks the first electric vehicle to bear the GTi badge and the first Peugeot GTi since the previous generation 308 GTi was discontinued in 2021. Favey expressed excitement about converting skeptics into enthusiasts, anticipating that the car's 280 horsepower electric powertrain and top-class chassis will prove exhilarating. "I'm looking forward to seeing these very petrolhead kind of persons turned into fans of the electric world through the 208 GTi," he concluded.