PSA Takes Wraps Off Diminutive Hybrid 3-Wheeler

PSA Group unveils an electric vehicle which spans both 4-wheel, 2-wheel and even 3-wheel transport models.

Launched by the European EU-LIVE consortium, the vehicle is categorized as a 3-wheeler drawing from the Peugeot Scooter’s tilting-through-corner technology with two outboard front wheels and two inboard rear wheels.

Dubbed the EU-LIVE, it uses a plug-in hybrid-electric powertrain, two electric in-wheel motors and a gasoline internal-combustion engine.

PSA claims it can be used on all roads and brings together the ease of use of a city 3-wheeler with the weather protection and highway capabilities of an automobile. This and the roll-control technology account for more than half of the 13 patents filed by PSA, and it uses several hydraulic components and hydropneumatic suspension.

It will run up to 43 mph (70 km/h) on electric power alone but be able to reach 81 mph (130 km/h) using the full hybrid powertrain. PSA partners include Elaphe and Brembo for the wheel-mounted electric motors and Samsung SDI for the 48V battery technology, while its Peugeot scooter division supplies the 30-hp single-cylinder gasoline engine that allows a 186-mile (300-km) vehicle range between refueling.

Measuring just 94 ins. (2,388 mm) long and 33 ins. (838 mm) wide, it employs rotating doors allowing perpendicular parking in motorcycle bays. With an enclosed, heated cabin, the vehicle also features seatbelts and an airbag, making helmets, gloves, waterproof jackets and other protective gear unnecessary depending on individual government and state regulations.

“Groupe PSA has committed to protecting individual freedom of movement. EU-LIVE is an illustrative example of it,” says Carla Gohin, PSA senior vice president- research and advanced engineering. “This new electrified light vehicle allows an individual, safe and sustainable mobility thanks to its zero-emission mode. We are proud to take part in this European project with all our partners.”

While not listed as a concept, PSA has not yet released any production information.