Bosch will showcase its split-axle hybrid technology in this year’s RAC Future Car Challenge with the entry of a Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4. The car will join other eco-friendly vehicles in the annual motoring contest on Saturday 5th November, driving from Brighton to London.

The 3008 HYbrid4 uses Bosch hybrid technology that has been developed in conjunction with PSA Peugeot Citroën. Bosch, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, was responsible for the 20kW (37bhp) electric motor, many of the electronic controls and a specially-designed ESP® system utilising regenerative electric braking, which in turn helps to recharge the battery.

The system enables the car to drive up to three miles and 30mph on fully-electric, zero-emissions power. The rear-mounted motor works together with the existing 2.0-litre HDI engine which drives the front wheels. The axle split system means that the hybrid drivetrain is added to the standard internal combustion engine vehicle layout rather than being completely bespoke.

The 3008 HYbrid4, which will be driven by Rory Reid from CNET on the 60-mile route, achieves impressively low fuel consumption of 74.4mpg and emits 99g/km of carbon dioxide.