Peugeot Citroen is seeking a new OEM investment partner to launch the Hybrid Air.
PSA's Hybrid Air Technology Image: Peugeot |
The French automaker is looking to develop its battery-free petrol hybrid car which uses compressed air to store energy.
Although the technology has gone through a technical validation process, PSA has stated it won't be launched with existing partner GM.
With a target market of B and C segment cars, as well as light commercial vehicles, the technology provides an alternative - and potentially less costly - solution to emission problems; company data reveals that cars fitted with Hybrid Air will emit just 69g CO2/km – 45% less than a three-cylinder petrol engine.
Fuel economy is another benefit because energy can be saved in a shorter time than with pure hybrid technology, according to the company.
With its simpler technology, Hybrid Air has the potential to be easily industrialised globally and maintained through a dealer network. It can also be integrated into existing vehicle platforms. PSA are anticipating high volume production of the new system, with an element of future-proofing which could allow it to meet the post-2020 legislative demands on emissions and fuel consumption which are currently proving a major headache for OEMs.