PEUGEOT 106 ELECTRIC (1993) – Ahead of its time
In 1989 PEUGEOT became the first major European manufacturer to offer an electric version of a commercial vehicle to local authorities and businesses. The J5 electric van was built in collaboration with battery manufacturer SAF and was offered as an efficient alternative to internal combustion vans at the time. In 1995, the “106 ELECTRIC” was created, an electric passenger car for private individuals. The vehicle was in development since 1993, under a partnership with EDF (Electricté de France) Twenty-five “106 ELECTRIC” were tested by private individuals, professionals and local administrations before the public could purchase the vehicle. The 106 was produced from 1990 to 2003 with 2,798,246 units sold, including 3,542 electric models between 1993 and 2003.