Peugeot is currently making a shift towards electric vehicles, aiming to have the most extensive range of electric vehicles among mainstream European manufacturers. While this transition is underway, the future of Peugeot’s performance cars has been a topic of discussion. The Peugeot Sport Engineered (PSE) sub-brand, which debuted with the 508 PSE in 2020, is the only model that has received the high-performance treatment so far.
Linda Jackson, the CEO of Peugeot, addressed the future of fast Peugeots by emphasizing the importance of driving pleasure in their vehicles. She mentioned that the current focus is on the 508 PSE, which embodies performance and driving enjoyment. However, the challenge lies in translating this driving pleasure into electric cars as Peugeot moves forward with its EV lineup.
The Inception concept car unveiled by Peugeot offers a glimpse into how the brand plans to address this challenge. With 671bhp, this electric saloon showcases Peugeot’s innovative approach to driving controls and dynamics, featuring a steer-by-wire i-Cockpit setup. Instead of a traditional steering wheel, future Peugeot models will adopt a Hypersquare controller, a compact rectangular interface with integrated display and controls for various functions.
Jackson expressed her enthusiasm for the Hypersquare system, highlighting its agility, fun driving experience, and resemblance to driving a racing car. She emphasized the importance of maintaining Peugeot’s DNA, known for agile and enjoyable driving experiences like the iconic 205 GTI. The adoption of new technologies like the Hypersquare aims to redefine performance and driving pleasure in Peugeot’s electric vehicles.
The introduction of the first Hypersquare-equipped EV by Peugeot in 2026 will be a significant milestone in realizing this vision. By combining cutting-edge technology with the brand’s legacy of driving enjoyment, Peugeot aims to cater to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and engaging driving experience in their electric cars.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electrification, Peugeot’s innovative approach to performance cars demonstrates a commitment to blending tradition with modernity. By embracing new technologies and reimagining driving dynamics, Peugeot is poised to create a new era of electric performance vehicles that capture the essence of the brand while offering exciting driving experiences for the future.