Peugeot has released further details of its 208 T16 Pikes Peak racer that will contest this year’s Pikes Peak Hill Climb in the United States.
The specially built Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak is powered by a652kW (875hp) twin-turbo V6 that was designed for endurance racing.
The tubular-framed machine can accelerate from 0-100km/h in a staggering 1.8 seconds, and from 0-200km/h in just 4.8 seconds. Top speed is a claimed 240km/h.
The 3.2-litre powerplant is mated to a longitudinally-mounted six-speed sequential gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters.
The powerful turbocharged engine is essential to success in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb according to Peugeot Sport director Bruno Famin.
“In the case of a normally aspirated engine, you basically lose one per cent of the available power every 100 metres you climb. This is a fundamental parameter that has to be taken into account for this race that starts at an altitude of 2865 metres and finishes at 4301 metres,” Famin said.
“By the time they reach the start line, certain engines automatically shed some 30 per cent of their potential. A powerful engine is consequently essential because there can be no question of Sebastien Loeb lacking power on the day.”
Tipping the scales at just 875kg, the lightweight 208 T16 Pikes Peak also benefits from all-wheel drive, plus a unique aerodynamic package borrowed from the Le Mans 24 Hours-winning Peugeot 908.
Common components include the two-metre-wide rear wing and front splitter, as well as the running gear and carbon brake package.
Meanwhile, the car’s specially designed under-tray is responsible for generating almost half the car’s downforce.
Last but not least, the Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak sits on specific 18-inch magnesium alloy wheels derived from F1 technology, shod with bespoke Michelin tyres.
