Peugeot has taken a unique approach to launching its first all-electric hatchback, the e-308, in Australia. Rather than a full-scale release, the company has initiated an exclusive “Preview Program,” offering a limited number of vehicles to select customers. This strategy allows Peugeot to gauge market reception and gather valuable feedback before a potential wider launch.

The e-308 is currently available in a single, well-equipped GT variant. It features a front-mounted electric motor that produces 115 kW of power and 270 Nm of torque. Power is supplied by a 50 kWh (usable) lithium-ion battery pack, which provides a respectable WLTP driving range of up to 400 km. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.8 seconds and has a top speed of 170 km/h.

A key highlight of the e-308 is its charging capability. It comes with an 11 kW three-phase onboard charger for faster AC charging at home or at public chargers. For DC fast-charging, it supports speeds up to 100 kW, allowing the battery to be topped up from 0 to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.

The e-308 stands out with its bold styling, including matrix LED headlights and Peugeot’s signature “lion claw” taillights. Inside, the car features the latest generation of the Peugeot i-Cockpit, which includes a compact steering wheel, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10-inch HD touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other standard features include a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance systems.

As part of the Preview Program, Peugeot has a limited number of e-308 GT hatchbacks available for a special drive-away price of $59,990. With only a handful of vehicles on offer, those interested in being one of the first in Australia to own the e-308 will need to act quickly.