Peugeot RC
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1810 |
| Headquarters | Sochaux , France |
| Products | Automobiles, concept cars |
| Website | www |
The Peugeot RC represents a concept car launched by the French manufacturer Peugeot during the 2002 Geneva Motor Show.
Design
This model came in two mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive configurations: the black Spade equipped with a 2.0L naturally aspirated petrol inline-four engine generating 181 bhp, and the red Diamond featuring a 2.2L turbocharged diesel inline-four that delivered comparable output but offered unique driving characteristics. Both versions utilized six-speed sequential transmissions, sported carbon-fiber chassis weighing approximately 900 kg, employed ceramic disc brakes, and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds.
Reception
Crafted by the Peugeot Style Centre, the RC’s aerodynamic design was lauded for its sophistication and creativity, leaving a lasting impact on future Peugeot models. The diesel-powered Diamond stood out with an exceptional fuel economy of 57 mpg (4.1 L/100 km), remarkable for a performance-oriented vehicle. BBC Top Gear recognized it as potentially the inaugural genuine diesel sports car.
Hybrid electric
At the Paris Motor Show, Peugeot introduced the 2009 RC HYmotion4 concept, a hybrid electric sports sedan featuring a drivetrain akin to that of the Chevy Volt. This model delivers extended electric-only travel supplemented by a hybrid system to increase driving range. The RC HYmotion4 combines a 70 kW electric motor driving the front wheels with a traditional combustion engine, highlighting Peugeot’s commitment to advancing plug-in hybrid technology.