In parallel to its 2010 race programme with the 908 HDi FAP, Peugeot Sport has been busy designing and developing the prototype that will defend its colours in 2011.
Peugeot Sport’s principal mission accomplished
Having been kept secret in Peugeot Sport’s factory in Vélizy, near Paris, the team’s new endurance challenger – known under the codename 90X – has been out for its first track test at Monza this week.
"Our intention was to take it out onto a track before the end of the year," says Peugeot Sport Director Olivier Quesnel. "I am pleased to report that we have now done that. Even so, there is still a long way to go and a considerable amount of work to be done as we prepare for 2011."
The 90X’s technical characteristics
The 90X complies with the ACO’s 2011 regulations, and notably incorporates a shark fin appendix on the engine cover. This new feature is designed to prevent the car from going airborne in the case of a high-speed spin. As it did for the 908 HDi FAP, Peugeot Sport has opted for a closed cockpit, while the car meets the mandatory 900kg weight requirement.
"We are still exploring several options with regard to the engine and technology we will use," points out Bruno Famin, the Technical Director of Peugeot Sport. "Work on the engine’s development is ongoing. Endurance racing is a proving ground that provides us with an opportunity to showcase all the brand’s technologies."