Updated 06:50 PM,Jan 23,2022
The Peugeot 9X8 is far more than a racing car—it’s an iconic masterpiece, a true revolution in both aesthetic and technological innovation, representing a pinnacle adventure in the world of elite design. Mathias Hossann, Peugeot’s Design Director, meticulously engineered the vehicle before its 2022 race debut, creating a perfect fusion of form and function. This project also offered Agnieszka Doroziowska, a specialist in fashion and supercar photography, the chance to play with contrasting elements of light and metal, resulting in images that echo the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race, where shifting light and time create ever-changing visual dynamics.
The most striking feature of this concept—and one that unites many key attributes for enthusiasts—is the absence of a rear wing, giving the car a uniquely distinctive silhouette.
When developing the Peugeot 9X8, immense effort was dedicated to refining the rear section. Starting from a base sketch resembling a streamlined vehicle, a slightly transparent cabin emerged, along with the sleek, tightly wrapped profile we now see over the rear wheel.
Peugeot has already claimed victory at Le Mans with two cars from different generations: the 905 powered by a V10 fuel engine in 1992 and 1993, and the 908 equipped with a V12 HDi-FAP engine in 2009. Now, with the advanced technology embedded in the 9X8, Peugeot is ushering in a new era.
Its four-wheel hybrid powertrain shares similarities with other models in the Peugeot lineup, such as the 3008 and 508. The 9X8 combines a 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6 internal combustion engine producing 500 kilowatts (680 horsepower) at the rear with a 200-kilowatt (270-horsepower) electric generator located at the front.
Peugeot’s design team employed highly advanced technologies throughout the process. To shape the vehicle’s dimensions, designers used 3D tools and computer-aided design (CAD) systems. These digital methods made file sharing with engineering teams seamless. Once the dimensions were finalized, the next stage involved virtual reality—where the full Peugeot 9X8 was projected in immersive 3D using head-mounted VR devices for the engineering team’s review.
To ensure the 9X8 stands out unmistakably, day or night, Peugeot’s design team introduced illuminated design concepts on the side profile. For the exclusive lighting feature, the three signature claws found on current production Peugeot models were a natural choice. Integrating them into the front of the 9X8 was straightforward, but adding them to the rear required significant effort. The integration of the three multi-component light claws created functional air vents, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.
