Peugeot unveils the prototype of the 9X8 Hypercar, its new racing car that will debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2022. Hyper-efficient, powered by a hybrid powertrain and equipped with all-wheel drive, the car is part of the Neo-Performance strategy developed by the French manufacturer in the Stellantis Group, which aims to deliver more virtuous and responsible sustainability performance in both production and competition vehicles.
The close collaboration between the design and engineering teams of Peugeot and its racing department was decisive in exploring new aerodynamic and stylistic solutions and defining an absolutely original line. After intense months of joint work, the development engineers under the responsibility of Olivier Jansonnie, technical director of Peugeot Sport, and the designers coordinated by Matthias Hossann, head of design at the French manufacturer, unveil the main lines and aerodynamic concept of this 9X8.
This approach was prompted by the new regulations for the Le Mans Hypercar category introduced by the FIA, which takes over from the premier LMP1 category. The regulations offer greater freedom in the treatment of aerodynamic surfaces and encourage radically new thinking and the design of innovative cars that are more open to the inventiveness of design teams. Engineers and designers have taken this opportunity to invent new creative processes, break codes and create a Peugeot Hypercar that is the founder of a new genre.
“In keeping with Peugeot’s tradition, the original sketch that guided our work depicted a feline ready to pounce,” explains Matthias Hossann. “This attitude is reflected in the cockpit, which is pushed forward a bit. In general, the Peugeot 9X8 echoes the aesthetic codes typical of our brand: it is a sleek, refined and elegant car that inspires emotion and dynamism.”
