Interesting hybrid design

[mgb_phys]

Peugeot have a new hybrid 4x4
They took a regular front wheel drive car and added an electric motor driving the rear wheels only.
It can run ICE + front wheel only for freeways without the extra drag of permanent 4wd
Electric rear wheel only for in-town/traffic low speed, or Diesel front + electric rear for 4x4.
It can also do regenerative braking with the rear wheels.

The idea is that the cost+weight of the electric system + batteries is less than fitting a conventional 4wd system. And the weight of the batteries over the rear wheels helps the grip.

http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2009/04/30/peugeot_4wd_diesel_hybrid/

 

[Topher925]

I'm pretty sure lexus did this a few years ago with one of their SUVs.