[No need for rear wing] New Peugeot 9X8 WEC entry machine unveiled with lion crest

Return to Le Mans after 11 years

Peugeot last entered Le Mans in 2011. In next year's FIA World Endurance Championship, he will enter a pair of these Le Mans hypercars (LMH) to face off against the Toyota GR010 Hybrid.

The new LMH rules regulate the main bodywork and limit the total powertrain output to 680bhp, but give manufacturers the freedom to showcase different designs and technologies. Performance balance adjustments have been made between the LMH and LMP2-based LMDh machines to put them on the same playing field.

The new LMH rules "give us the freedom to invent, innovate and explore ways to optimize the car's performance, especially its aerodynamics," said Olivier Jeansoni, Peugeot Sport's technical chief. Says.

The rear wing has long been one of the key aerodynamic devices used to generate downforce, but according to Peugeot Sport, the 9X8's high aerodynamic efficiency makes it possible to run without a rear wing. is said to be possible.

Futuristic Styling

Jiansoni explains:

“The regulations stipulate only one adjustable aerodynamic device and do not specify the rear wing. Due to our calculation work and simulations, it is effective even without a rear wing. We found that high performance is achievable in

Giansoni did not specify which aerodynamic devices were made adjustable.

In addition to the body shape that enhances aerodynamic efficiency, the 9X8 uses wheel rims, wing vents on the top of the tires, and integrated mirrors. In addition, many features of Peugeot cars, such as headlights with a "claw" design, are reflected.

Symbol of Tradition and Electrification

The name 9X8 represents the tradition and electrification of motorsports.

The number 9 has been used for Peugeot's Le Mans challenge cars, the 905 and 908, while the X stands for Peugeot's four-wheel drive technology and hybrid powertrain. 8 indicates Peugeot's current production car lineup (308, 508, etc.).

Peugeot will enter two of these 9X8s in next year's WEC and Le Mans, with former F1 drivers Jean-Eric Vergne, Kevin Magnussen and Paul di Resta as drivers.

In the LMH class, it will face Toyota, but from 2023 onwards it will also face many rivals who build cars in the LMDh format. Acura, Audi, BMW, Ferrari and Porsche have already announced their participation in the category.

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