PEUGEOT

New 208 Polygon Concept

Peugeot is working on a major new product: the new 208. A model of extreme importance for the lion brand, it will be based on the STLA Small electric platform, being launched exclusively as a completely pollution-free car, with its presentation scheduled for the Paris Motor Show in France in October.

The Polygon concept gives clues about the design and technologies that will be incorporated into the new Peugeot 208. One of them, according to information from Auto Express, in an interview with Alain Favey, CEO of the manufacturer, is the adoption of the Hypersquare steering system.

The highlight of the Hypersquare concept is the replacement of the mechanical link between the steering wheel and the steering wheel with digital impulses, which should also contribute to drivability and also to maximizing interior space in the new Peugeot 208.

“People live and work in urban areas, where space is becoming increasingly limited, with increasingly congested streets. Therefore, they need a compact car, associated with a spacious interior,” the executive commented to the publication.

With a short front end and a longer wheelbase, the new Peugeot 208 eliminates the traditional steering column, presenting a new dashboard architecture. The Polygon concept will help shape the next phase of the 208, which features details inspired by the Peugeot 205 from the 1980s.

This mix of modernity with classic references appears in the front and rear lights, a trend that the manufacturer intends to adopt in future releases, as revealed by the published images.

Although electric models face restrictions in certain markets around the world, according to Favey, Peugeot will continue to offer electric vehicles as long as there is demand. Abroad, the new Peugeot 208, scheduled for 2027, should attract a different customer profile than the one that will seek the electric 208 GTi.

Stellantis is developing a new line of electric motors offering from 100 to 450 hp. To position itself competitively, the E-208 should offer versions with power between 130 hp and 220 hp, rivaling the future Volkswagen ID. Polo line.

The 208's longer wheelbase will allow the use of larger batteries than the current limit of 51 kWh. The STLA Small platform can accommodate batteries up to 82 kWh, guaranteeing an estimated maximum range of around 482 km.

In addition, smaller packs, possibly just under 40 kWh, will also be available for city use. Inside, the driving experience, according to the executive, will be unique, thanks to the oblong-shaped control called Hypersquare.

i-Cockpit...Maintaining the bet on futurism. The interior should also mark the evolution of the i-Cockpit, with a long, narrow screen occupying the dashboard.

Peugeot cars have been known for decades for their small-diameter steering wheel governed by the i-Cockpit concept. Hypersquare takes this concept to a new level, using sophisticated software that assesses speed and the environment around the car to offer variable steering system assistance. Favey believes this technological leadership will help the brand face Chinese rivals who are increasingly equipped with features and gadgets.

The Polygon Concept will also serve as a showcase for the STLA Small platform, Stellantis' multi-energy architecture that is an evolution of the current CMP and will give rise to the group's new generation of compact cars. This includes not only the Peugeot 208, but also the Opel Corsa and possibly a new Fiat Punto.

The debut should be with an electric motor, but the base will allow for different types of engines, from hybrids to combustion engines, depending on the market. The 208, therefore, will remain global and adaptable, but it is already beginning to show its future face with the Polygon Concept. Our bets for the look? Straight lines like its cousins ​​Grande Panda and C3, but with some retro characteristics, close to the old 205. We'll have to wait and see.

by Autonews