Peugeot HR1 Concept: 2010 Paris Auto Show

PARIS — Peugeot has unveiled its HR1 "urban concept car" at the 2010 Paris Auto Show, a bulbous crossover-style vehicle that uses the automaker's Hybrid4 gasoline-electric powertrain.

With styling evolved from that of the earlier SR1 concept, a notable feature of this HR1 is a set of electrically operated gullwing-style doors. The interior has modular seating, so it can be set up as a two-seater with more commodious luggage space or as a three- or four-passenger vehicle.

The three-cylinder 1.2-liter gasoline engine is a version of Peugeot's future family of efficient three-cylinder engines that is now in development, the automaker says. It's teamed with a rear-positioned electric motor with all-wheel drive and a combined 147 horsepower. The 19-inch wheels are fitted with Michelin tires.

In line with its intent to be an "interactive" vehicle for the young and hip, the HR1 concept has a tablet PC for the passenger as well as the latest in head-up displays, audio, navigation and information systems — controlled by a motion-sensing system that lets the driver scroll among menu choices by making prescribed hand gestures. The driver can even turn over those tasks to the front passenger by making a certain left-to-right hand motion, Peugeot explains.

Inside Line says: The potential for comedy is there when a hand-gesture-recognition system meets a pair of Gallic conversationalists inside the HR1. — Laura Sky Brown, Correspondent