Extreme Auto Grill

5 by Peugeot Concept Unveiled Ahead : 2010 Geneva Auto Show

The diesel/electric hybrid 5 by Peugeot concept, which was teased on Monday ahead of its public debut at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show, previews the upcoming Peugeot 508 sedan that is set to go on sale in 2011.

"The 5 by Peugeot concept car is another indication of the changing face of Peugeot and provides an insight into the marque's future ambitions in the large-luxury-vehicle segment," said Peugeot in a statement. It noted that the concept incorporates Peugeot's Hybrid 4 technology, which will be launched in 2011 in the Peugeot 3008. It is expected that the technology will also be used on the 508 sedan.

The 197-horsepower 5 by Peugeot gets a 2.0-liter HDi diesel engine coupled with an electric motor.

If the concept hints at Peugeot's future styling, it seems to emphasize jellybean-like lines. The grille is said to be influenced by the Peugeot SR1 concept car. The concept rides on 19-inch wheels.

Proton Hybrid Concept at 2010 Geneva Auto Show

Malaysian automaker Proton will unveil a hybrid concept vehicle at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show that was created in cooperation with its British subsidiary, Lotus Engineering, and Italdesign Giugiaro. The car will be displayed on the Italdesign stand.

Lotus is providing the hybrid drivetrain technology, while Giugiaro handled the styling on the four-passenger five-door hatchback, which aims to create the interior space of a large family sedan with the exterior dimensions of a city car.

The Lotus series hybrid system is built around the company's 1.2-liter three-cylinder "range extender" engine that was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show last fall. The engine does not drive the wheels but is used exclusively to recharge the battery and provide power for the electric drive motors.

Italdesign said the aim of its vehicle design was to "optimize the available onboard space and ergonomics."

Chairman Giorgetto Giugiaro said, "You could say that it is a brand-new type of car, a new automotive concept where looks are as important as function, ergonomics and comfort, not to mention environmental impact."