Peugeot 908 RC: Luxury and power for the environmentally conscious driver

Peugeot 908 RC is a sports car which gets its power from a Peugeot V12 HDi DPFS engine. ‘RC’ denotes the car’s sporting appeal and links to the RC concept cars which made their first appearance for Honda in 2002 and as such, had heavily influenced the design and feel of the 908.

The impetus behind the design was to produce a luxurious vehicle that offered charm and sophistication. This four door vehicle is both practical and impressive, offering comfort with its design as well as environmental protection. Powered by a diesel particulate filter system engine, the V12 HDi DPFS was designed with the Le Mans Race Series programme (2007) in mind.

With a 5.5 litre capacity, a top power output of over 515 kW, and outstanding torque greater than 1,200 Nm, it certainly lives up to its racing potential. This is in part achieved due to the engine’s low centre of gravity. Using a 100-degree V shaped angle, the engine sits low on the ground maximising aerodynamics and grip control.

However, with environmental matters in mind, the twin exhaust system has two particulate filters to reduce carbon emissions. What is interesting about the design of this vehicle is the fact that the engine is located in a rear central transverse position.

The design is compact and there is a six speed electronically controlled sequential gearbox. Located under the engine, it has been intentionally adapted to enable the vehicle to deal with the impressive torque. As the power train has been relocated behind the final drive assembly, space has been saved to enable the creation of a large boot.

Its new position also means space is saved internally also at the passenger’s side. This new location enables the driving position to move forward, benefitting the driver and increasing the glazed front windscreen capacity to 3m2. The V design and glass front allow both the driver and passenger to feel as close to the road and surroundings as possible.

The views from the windscreen are unobstructed and give the occupants a feeling of space and openness and provide the driver with an excellent panoramic view of the road. The vehicle appears to skim the road as it is low lying with a stylish tapered effect. The frame sits on massive 20 spoke alloy wheels which set off the attractive design of the vehicle. The interior design technology matches the impressive exterior of the 908 RC.

The lighting accentuates the interior design whilst the functions of the vehicle are accessed through a large touch screen making everything centralised. With the positioning of a multimedia screen on the centre console parting the two rear seats, back passengers can also access the infotainment system. Peugeot has used materials and trim to a high standard, continuing the impression that this vehicle is something special.

Following Peugeot’s established history, the 908 RC is a unique and individualised design concept which was the brain child of the designers at the Peugeot Design Centre. With an emphasis on saving weight, the vehicle is constructed from pre-impregnated carbon composite and vacuum polymerised aluminium honeycomb structure. The interior sub frame is tubular in shape and supports the engine and suspension.

The vehicle has a double wishbone type suspension taken from the 407. Both the front and rear of the vehicle sport a novel drop link design. The fast moving vehicle is brought to a stop by four Monobloc ceramic carbon composite discs which are both lightweight and thermally efficient. It has Michelin Pilot Sport tyres PS2 255/35 R20s at the front and 285/30 R21s at the rear. The 908 is targeted at the more sophisticated driver who expects exceptional performance and luxurious quality.