Introduction:
In recent years, the world of World Endurance Racing has seen a resurgence of interest with the introduction of the Hypercar class. With new rules set by France’s ACO racing organizing body, manufacturers like Toyota, Glickenhaus, and various others have stepped up to create top-class race cars that push the boundaries of innovation. Peugeot, known for its unique design approach, initially debuted its 9×8 single-seater with a distinct look that focused on ground-effects aerodynamics rather than silhouette aero. However, after two years of racing in the World Endurance Championship, Peugeot has decided to take a more traditional approach with its new 9×8 for the 2024 WEC season, incorporating a rear wing to align with its competitors. Peugeot Sport Technical Director Olivia Jansonnie explained that the decision to revamp the design was influenced by rule changes and a need to level the playing field with Balance of Performance rules. The updated car features significant improvements in bodywork, weight distribution, tire configuration, engine, and gearbox reliability. With a new livery created in collaboration with Peugeot Design, the updated 9×8 is set to make its debut at the 6 Hours of Imola on April 21.
The introduction of the Hypercar class in World Endurance Racing brought about a wave of innovation among manufacturers looking to showcase their cutting-edge technology and performance capabilities. France’s ACO racing organizing body set new rules to encourage manufacturers to push the boundaries of design and aerodynamics, leading to the creation of traditional-looking top-class race cars. Companies like Toyota, Glickenhaus, and later Cadillac, Ferrari, and Porsche joined the fray to compete in this high-stakes racing category.
Peugeot took a unique approach with its 9×8 single-seater, deviating from the traditional design aesthetic seen in other Hypercar class vehicles. The car featured an unmistakable headlight signature and a rear end without a wing, focusing on ground-effects aerodynamics instead of silhouette aero. While the 9×8 scored points in races, it often finished toward the back of the class, prompting Peugeot Sport to reevaluate its design strategy.
After two years of racing in the World Endurance Championship, Peugeot Sport recognized the need for a more traditional approach to remain competitive in the Hypercar class. Technical Director Olivia Jansonnie explained that rule changes and Balance of Performance rules put Peugeot at a disadvantage, leading to the decision to update the 9×8 for the 2024 WEC season. The new design incorporates a rear wing, necessitating significant changes to the bodywork, weight distribution, tire configuration, and improvements in engine and gearbox reliability.
In collaboration with Peugeot Design, Peugeot Sport developed a new livery for the updated 9×8, featuring the brand’s iconic lion symbol in various sizes and shades of black, grey, white, and kryptonite. The livery symbolizes a pack of lions, reflecting the values of Endurance racing and conveying a sense of collective teamwork. With intricate graphics that highlight the lion icons, the new livery adds a unique flair to the updated 9×8.
After entering the previous 9×8 in the 2024 WEC season’s first race in Qatar, the updated version of the 9×8 is set to make its debut at the 6 Hours of Imola on April 21. With a revamped design, improved performance capabilities, and a fresh livery, Peugeot aims to make a statement in the Hypercar class and compete against other top manufacturers. The future looks promising for Peugeot as they continue to evolve their design philosophy and strive for success in World Endurance Racing.