Peugeot has confirmed the e-208 GTi will be priced from £34,995 in the UK, as the production-ready model makes its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans today.

That figure does not include the government's Electric Car Grant, through which the GTi is expected to qualify for a £1500 discount. That would reduce its price to £33,845, undercutting the rival Alpine A290 GTS+ (£34,245, inclusive of a £3750 government grant).

The GTi was first unwrapped in concept form at La Sarthe last year, but Peugeot has now pulled the wraps off the finished product – ready for showrooms in the coming months with a design that the brand says "is incredibly close" to the original show car.

The first new Peugeot GTi model since the hot 308 retired in 2021 is also its most powerful yet, with its single front-mounted electric motor producing 277bhp and 254lb ft of torque for a 0-62mph time of 5.5sec. It also weighs 1545kg.

Technically, it's a close relation to the Abarth 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica Veloce and upcoming Vauxhall Corsa GSE, which means it also gets a mechanical limited-slip differential to increase its agility in the bends.

Beyond the hefty power increase of 124bhp over the standard e-208, the GTi also gains bespoke hydraulic bump stops, a rear anti-roll bar and a unique steering tune that's said to boost responsiveness. 

It also rides 30mm lower and has significantly widened tracks – by 27mm at the rear and 56mm at the front – for improved poise and stance. 

Although it shares its 54kWh battery pack with the regular e-208, its cooling system has been revised to prevent performance from dropping off at high speeds. It offers 218 miles of range with the standard-fit Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, or 233 with the optional (but free) Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 rubber.

As previewed by the concept, the visual makeover extends to a prominent rear spoiler and diffuser, a beefier front lip and striking 18in alloy wheels with a design inspired by the distinctive 'pepperpots' of its hallowed 205 GTi forefather.

Further details will be revealed on Friday 12 June as Peugeot marks the 100th anniversary of its first Le Mans race by taking to the circuit in three GTis - painted red, white and blue to celebrate the brand's French heritage.

UK sales of the new hot hatch will begin towards the end of the year.