Dacia has launched a new full hybrid all-wheel-drive version of the Duster and Bigster in the UK, and the set-up features an electrified back axle.
The new Hybrid 150 4×4 powertrain joins the 130 4×4 in the Duster but replaces it on the Bigster. It combines a 138bhp 1.2-litre petrol that drives the front wheels with a 31bhp electric motor that turns the rears.
Compared to the 130, the new 150 offers 23bhp more power to 152bhp. It also swaps the six-speed manual for an equivalent automatic ‘box – and the motor gets its own two-speed ‘box (for better torque distribution on- and off-road) that can also disengage the rear axle.
A tiny 0.84 kWh Li-Ion battery means the Hybrid 150 4×4 can also switch off the engine for periods of electric-only driving. While no EV miles have been given, Dacia says, in normal driving conditions, the system will drive in EV mode 60% of the time. In Europe, it is also offered as an LPG, under the Hybrid-G 150 4×4 badge.
The set-up will be offered in the UK later this year. Dacia said more information on timings and pricing will be confirmed “in the coming months”.