Peugeot has revealed what it claims is the industry's first full hybrid with diesel power, the 3008 HYbrid4. It boasts official fuel consumption of 74.4mpg and CO₂ emissions of 99g/km.

The drive system uses Peugeot's 163bhp, 2.0-litre HDi turbodiesel engine, which drives through a six-speed automated manual gearbox to power the front wheels. Drive to the rear wheels comes from a 37bhp electric motor.

The hybrid transmission has four modes of operation, controlled by a selector on the centre console. Auto is designed to allow the drive system to operate for 'optimal fuel consumption'. ZEV is the zero-emissions mode, which means the 3008 runs on battery power unless strong acceleration is required; Four-wheel drive uses both diesel and electric motors together for improved low-speed traction on difficult surfaces; Sport is performance oriented with faster gear changes.

A 'second generation' Stop & Start system is fitted to help manage the transition between diesel and electric operation. The two systems can work separately; drawing on battery power for low-speed driving and decelerating (to recover energy); and using HDi power for longer journeys. For overtaking and other occasions where rapid acceleration is required both motors work together.

The electric motor draws power from nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries located under the boot floor. As a result there is a reduction in boot capacity. Compared with the conventional 3008, 92 litres have been lost, leaving 420 litres of carrying capacity.

The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 is due to go on sale in spring 2011. Prices and final specifications will be announced closer to the on-sale date. We expect to see the new hybrid at the Paris Motor Show next month.