The Italian design house Italdesign Giugiaro has released the first image of the Proton hybrid concept that will be unveiled at the Geneva auto show next month. The Giugiaro Proton hybrid concept has been designed to optimize the on‐board space and car access ergonomics. It is a our‐seater, five‐door hatchback that measures 3550 mm in length.
The platform of the Proton hybrid concept has been designed especially for this model and features a raised floorpan that offers the possibility to fit the batteries at the rear. The Proton hybrid concept features four identical independent seats that can slide.
The drivetrain of the Proton hybrid concept
features a front internal combustion engine that recharges the lithium ion batteries. the actual propulsion of the Proton hybrid concept is made by the electric motor.
The Proton hybrid concept that will be unveiled in Geneva is just the first configuration of the newly developed platform.
“This is the outcome of several years of study: the solution allows interior spaciousness on a par
with that of a segment D saloon despite maintaining the exterior dimensions of a segment A car” explained Giorgetto Giugiaro, Chairman of Italdesign Giugiaro.
“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. It is higher than other compact cars to make the best use of interior space; the seat H point is at the same height as the passengers' hips: you do not get down into your car as in a coupé, you do not climb up as in an SUV but you enter in a natural
way. Rear seat comfort when you enter and leave the car is absolutely unprecedented, the distance from the front seat is comparable to that of an SUV” added Giugiaro.
