Peugeot Concept Cars

1. 1989 Peugeot Oxia Concept

Reminding us of the times when automotive designers dared to dream big, pushing the boundaries of what was possible.

In the late 1980s, the automotive world was ushered into the era of futuristic design and advanced technological integration with the unveiling of the Peugeot Oxia Concept in 1989. Named after a region on Mars, the Oxia was not just a car; it was a bold statement about the future capabilities of automobiles, blending speed, technology, and innovation in a package that was decades ahead of its time.

The Peugeot Oxia Concept was a masterpiece of design, showcasing a sleek, aerodynamic body that seemed to slice through the air. The car's aesthetics were inspired by the space-age technology of the era, reflecting a growing interest in aerospace and the possibilities beyond our planet. Its design was characterized by a low-slung, wide stance, and featured gullwing doors that added to its futuristic appeal. The body was crafted from composite materials, keeping it lightweight yet incredibly strong.

Underneath its striking exterior, the Oxia was packed with advanced technology and impressive power. It was equipped with a 2.8-liter V6 engine, enhanced by twin turbochargers, delivering a massive 680 horsepower. This engine configuration was a significant leap forward in terms of automotive engineering at the time, allowing the Oxia to achieve a top speed of over 217 mph (350 km/h), a figure that rivaled the fastest supercars of its era.

The Peugeot Oxia was also ahead of its time in integrating all-wheel drive, which was not as common then as it is today, especially in high-performance vehicles. This feature allowed for superior handling and traction, making the Oxia not only fast but also capable of remarkable agility and stability on the road.

The Oxia was loaded with technological innovations that were groundbreaking for the late 1980s. It featured a computer-controlled suspension system that could adapt to different driving conditions, providing optimal handling and comfort. The interior was equally futuristic, equipped with multiple screens and an early form of GPS navigation system, rare at the time. Moreover, it boasted a telecommunications system, including a phone and fax machine, emphasizing the concept of the car as a mobile office.

2. 2012 Peugeot Onyx

Contrasting matte black carbon fiber and polished copper panels plus recycled materials like newspaper for the interior.

Unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the Peugeot Onyx was a daring expression of future possibilities in automotive design and technology. This concept car not only demonstrated Peugeot's commitment to innovation but also reflected a profound understanding of sustainable materials and performance engineering. The Onyx was more than just a show car; it was a vision of the future that Peugeot was eager to explore.

The Peugeot Onyx's design was a breathtaking blend of avant-garde aesthetics and natural elements, standing out with its sharp, angular lines and a body that seemed both sculpted by wind and inspired by nature. The use of contrasting materials was particularly striking. The body panels were made of carbon fiber painted in a matte black, which seamlessly transitioned into a uniquely textured copper sheet metal that was left unprotected to allow the development of a natural patina over time. This bold use of materials not only gave the Onyx an evolving appearance but also highlighted Peugeot’s exploration into the use of sustainable resources.

Peugeot went further with its commitment to sustainability by incorporating other natural materials inside the Onyx. The interior was a showcase of innovative eco-friendly materials, including dashboards and door panels made from recycled newspapers, processed to appear like wood, creating a novel yet environmentally responsible approach to luxury car interiors. The seats were covered in wool-based felt, offering a comfortable, sustainable alternative to traditional automotive upholstery.

Under its sculptural exterior, the Peugeot Onyx was equipped with a hybrid powertrain that emphasized performance without compromising efficiency. It featured a 3.7-liter V8 diesel engine sourced from Peugeot's Le Mans race cars, which produced 600 horsepower, paired with an electric motor that added an additional 80 horsepower. This setup allowed the Onyx to deliver impressive speed and agility, while also demonstrating Peugeot’s commitment to hybrid technology as a viable path for high-performance vehicles.

The concept also featured Peugeot’s innovative HYbrid4 technology, which could recover kinetic energy during braking. The stored energy was then used to boost power by up to an additional 80 horsepower when needed, enhancing the car’s efficiency and performance.

3. 2002 Peugeot RC Concept

Unique mid-engine prototype notable for its two distinct versions, one with a gasoline engine and the other a diesel.

At the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, Peugeot unveiled a concept that would redefine expectations for the sport coupé market—the Peugeot RC Concept. With two variations, the RC Spade and RC Diamond, Peugeot demonstrated a commitment to innovation and design that merged functionality with futuristic aesthetics. The RC Concepts were not just design exercises; they were near-production-ready platforms showcasing Peugeot's forward-thinking in efficient powertrains and dynamic styling.

The RC Concepts were designed as a pair of sporty coupés, each embodying a unique personality and purpose. The RC Spade was presented with a black finish, emphasizing elegance and luxury, while the RC Diamond shone in a vibrant red, highlighting its sportier, aggressive nature. Both cars featured a sleek, low-profile silhouette common to grand tourers, but with compact dimensions that lent a more nimble, dynamic character.

The design language of the RC Concepts was futuristic yet approachable, featuring smooth lines that flowed from the front to the rear, integrating Peugeot’s signature style elements with new, bold aesthetics. This included a prominent grille, sharp headlights, and a streamlined body that hinted at the car’s performance capabilities.

Underneath their sculpted exteriors, both versions of the RC Concept were equipped with hybrid powertrains, which was a forward-thinking choice at the time. The RC Spade was powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine paired with an electric motor, making it one of the earliest diesel-electric hybrids shown by a major manufacturer. The combination produced a respectable 180 horsepower, which was quite substantial for a vehicle of its size and the era.

The RC Diamond, on the other hand, featured a petrol-electric hybrid system. It utilized a 2.0-liter petrol engine along with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 230 horsepower. This setup not only provided higher performance but also emphasized Peugeot's hybrid technology's flexibility and its potential for both economy and enhanced driving dynamics.

The RC Concepts stood out for their innovative use of materials and technology. The chassis was constructed from carbon fiber to reduce weight without compromising strength or safety. This lightweight construction, coupled with the hybrid powertrain, ensured that both versions of the RC Concept were not only fast but also efficient.

4. 2023 Peugeot Inception

Electric concept car showcasing Peugeot's future design direction. Lounge-like interior, and sustainable materials.

Unveiled at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show, the Peugeot Inception Concept represents a radical departure from traditional automotive design and ushers in a new era for the French automaker. With its bold aesthetics, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to an electric future, the Inception Concept not only previews Peugeot’s design direction but also sets new standards for the user experience in electric vehicles.

The Peugeot Inception Concept breaks away from conventional car design, embracing a futuristic approach that is both sleek and functional. The vehicle boasts a low, wide stance that emphasizes its sporty nature, while its expansive glasshouse offers an almost panoramic view, enhancing the sense of space inside. The exterior features flush door handles and minimalistic lines, contributing to a clean, aerodynamic profile that reduces drag and maximizes efficiency.

One of the most striking features of the Inception Concept is its innovative 'Hypersquare' steering control, which replaces the traditional steering wheel. This feature, combined with a fully flat floor made possible by the electric platform, transforms the driver’s interaction with the car, providing a more intuitive and engaging driving experience.

The Inception Concept is built on Stellantis’s STLA Large platform, which is designed exclusively for electric vehicles. It features a battery with a capacity that promises a range of up to 800 kilometers (approximately 500 miles) on a single charge, addressing range anxiety concerns that many consumers have about electric vehicles. Moreover, the Inception is equipped with fast charging capabilities, allowing for significant recharges in just minutes, thus enhancing convenience for users.

Inside, the Peugeot Inception Concept redefines the concept of vehicle interiors. The absence of a traditional center console and the inclusion of retractable pedals and steering control emphasize a new level of spaciousness and modularity. The interior is crafted from sustainable materials, aligning with Peugeot’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Advanced technology is another cornerstone of the Inception’s design. It features a next-generation i-Cockpit, which includes a wraparound digital dashboard and augmented reality displays that provide drivers with real-time information and interactive features, further enhancing the driving experience.

5. 2003 Peugeot 4002 Concept

A retro-futuristic design exercise, notable for its distinctive grille hiding headlights, a tribute to the classic Peugeot 402.

The 2003 Peugeot 4002 Concept was a standout piece at the Frankfurt Motor Show, presenting a unique blend of retro design cues and contemporary automotive technologies. Born from an international design competition initiated by Peugeot to celebrate its 200th anniversary, the 4002 was conceptualized by graphic designer Stefan Schulze from Germany. The car's design was a homage to Peugeot's illustrious racing heritage, particularly to the classic Peugeot models of the 1930s and 1940s, while incorporating futuristic elements that hinted at the direction Peugeot was heading.

The design competition, titled "Peugeot Design Competition," asked participants to envision a futuristic Peugeot for the 21st century that embodied the spirit and aesthetic of the brand. Out of over 3,000 entries from 80 countries, Schulze's 4002 emerged as the winner, captivating the judges with its innovative interpretation of Peugeot's historical design language.

The 4002's design was striking, featuring a dramatic, sweeping silhouette with pronounced fenders and a sleek, aerodynamic body. The front of the car showcased a reinterpretation of the classic Peugeot grille, enlarged and integrated seamlessly into the front fascia, flanked by slim, angled headlights that contributed to a aggressive, yet elegant demeanor. The vehicle's overall profile resembled a leaping lion, which is an emblem of the Peugeot brand, symbolizing speed, strength, and agility.

While the Peugeot 4002 was primarily a design study and thus not fully functional in terms of drivability, it included several imaginative technical features. The concept proposed a mid-engine layout, suggesting a performance-oriented driving experience typical of sports cars. The integration of advanced materials such as lightweight alloys and carbon fiber composites was suggested to enhance the car's aerodynamics and efficiency.

Schulze's design also hinted at advanced technologies such as active aerodynamics, where components like spoilers and vents would adjust automatically to optimize performance at high speeds. Although these features were conceptual, they demonstrated potential pathways for Peugeot's future technological developments.