Peugeot’s new electric seven-seater promises more space and a boost to battery power

The large E-5008 has just been unveiled and it is expected to go on the Irish market towards the end of the year.

The French automaker says there is exceptional space for seven people – and enough ­battery power to cover as many as 660 kilometres on one charge.

The SUV is based on the STLA Medium platform, while the battery is made in France.

When it gets here you can expect there will be three trim levels, each accentuating some aspect of the car. They are Allure, Emotion and Excellence.

Watch out for the ­“spectacular” panoramic i-cockpit in the Emotion trim.

The car was designed from outset as an electric model and there are AWD Dual Motor and Long Range versions.

But if you don’t feel like going all-electric just yet – and many people don’t due to uncertainty about electric vehicles in general – there is also a new E-5008 with a hybrid engine.

It is called the E-5008 Hybrid 136 e-DCS6 – that’s a mouthful, isn’t it? – and it has the brand’s HYBRID 48V system on board. This comprises a new-generation 136hp petrol engine, a dual-clutch 6spd gearbox that incorporates an electric motor and Peugeot reckons on fuel consumption of 5.7 litres/100km.

That’s not bad for a big car.

Expect prices to be confirmed nearer the launch date later in the year.