Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Red Bull to place Raikkonen, Loeb and Coulthard in Peugeot 908 HDi at Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-red-bull-to-place-raikkonen-loeb-and-coulthard-in-peuge/#commentsFiled under: ,


Peugeot 908 HDi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Motorsports of late have been gripped by the crossover of racing drivers from one discipline to another, but one of the most established migrations in motor racing has always been between Formula One and Le Mans. The great (but unrelated) Hills - Phil and Graham - both won the F1 championship and Le Mans, but none have done so since Jochen Rindt in 1970. Lately, Peugeot especially has been seeking F1 drivers to pilot its 908 HDi against the venerable Audis at the famous 24-hour race, but that could step up a notch if the latest rumors from France hold any Evian.

Peugeot has registered three factory works cars to challenge Le Mans next year, plus one mystery car that has only been listed as a privateer entry. According to the latest reports, that entry could be fielded by Red Bull. The energy drink company has one of the most comprehensive networks of racing talent under its wings, but what's catching the most attention is three of its most prominent drivers.

Six-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb, whose Citroen C4 rally car is sponsored by Red Bull, has raced Le Mans previously, and has been linked to a return to the endurance race. 2007 Formula One champion Kimi Raikkonen will likewise be driving next year in a Red Bull-sponsored C4 fielded by Citroen (Peugeot's sister company). Finally, David Coulthard was largely responsible for Red Bull's foray into F1, and though retired from actively racing, remains an advisor and test driver for the team.

While these rumors could prove nothing more than exactly that, if Red Bull were to bring these three talents to La Sarthe, they would surely be a force to be reckoned with.


Gallery: Peugeot 908 HDi


[Source: AUTOhebdo via Le Blog Auto and Axis of Oversteer]

REPORT: Red Bull to place Raikkonen, Loeb and Coulthard in Peugeot 908 HDi at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 heures du mans24 hours of le mans24HeuresDuMans24HoursOfLeManscoulthard le manscoulthard peugeotCoulthardLeMansCoulthardPeugeotdavid coulthardDavidCoulthardkimi raikkonenKimiRaikkonenle mansLeMansloeb le mansloeb peugeotLoebLeMansLoebPeugeotpeugeotpeugeot 908peugeot 908 hdipeugeot le mansPeugeot908Peugeot908HdiPeugeotLeMansraikkonen le mansraikkonen peugeotRaikkonenLeMansRaikkonenPeugeotred bullred bull le mansRedBullRedBullLeManssebastien loebSebastienLoebFri, 11 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Peugeot-Citroën on the verge of buying Mitsubishi?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/is-peugeot-citroen-on-the-verge-of-buying-mitsubishi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/is-peugeot-citroen-on-the-verge-of-buying-mitsubishi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/is-peugeot-citroen-on-the-verge-of-buying-mitsubishi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


The French and the Japanese have gotten together to form a magic partnership once already with Carlos Ghosn at the helm. The question is, then, can that success be replicated? PSA Peugeot-Citroën seems to hope so, and it is reportedly on the verge of purchasing a controlling stake (somewhere between 30 and 53 percent, depending on the report) in Mitsubishi Motors.

The total price for the acquisition would cost the European automaker over $3 billion and the deal would also include Mitsubishi acquiring a somewhat smaller stake in PSA Peugeot-Citroën - again, similar to the situation between France's Renault and Japan's Nissan.

So, what does Mitsubishi have that Peugeot wants? Three things, apparently: A presence in the States, SUV expertise and, perhaps most importantly, electric vehicle technology. If a deal does indeed take place, the resulting entity would be the sixth largest automaker by sales in the world.

[Source: BusinessWeek]

Is Peugeot-Citroën on the verge of buying Mitsubishi? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroenmergermitsubishiMitsubishi MotorsMitsubishiMotorspeugeotpsapsa peugeot citroenpsa peugeot citroen mitsubishiPsaPeugeotCitroenPsaPeugeotCitroenMitsubishitie-upFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Peugeot also wants ties with BMW that go beyond engines and platforms]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/report-peugeot-also-wants-ties-with-bmw-that-go-beyond-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/report-peugeot-also-wants-ties-with-bmw-that-go-beyond-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/report-peugeot-also-wants-ties-with-bmw-that-go-beyond-engines/#commentsFiled under: ,



A couple of years ago, BMW said it wanted out of the joint engine game with Peugeot. Today, not only are the two companies still sharing powerplants - the PSA engines that go in the Mini and Pugs like the 207 - but BMW's head has recently stated that the automaker is considering sharing small car platforms with PSA. To that, PSA head Phillipe Varin has gone a step further, saying he'd also like to extend the agreement to things like purchasing, transmissions, and HVAC units.

The quest for Peugeot is to find a way to remain independent to continue to make money doing it. The French automaker expects an operating loss of up to €1.5 billion ($2.25B U.S.) this year, which is less than expected. But the company foresees a return to black next year, and part of the strategy for that would be lowering costs through tie-ups, such as its deal to sell rebranded Mitsubishi i-Mievs.

Nevertheless, it will be BMW that needs to see sense in a stronger PSA union. Items like HVAC units and transmissions - when they work - are anonymous; no one knows or really cares where they come from. As for powertrains, the German firm has spoken before of wanting to lower development costs, especially in the area of small engine development which could help it with its numerous small car initiatives.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]

REPORT: Peugeot also wants ties with BMW that go beyond engines and platforms originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bimmerbmwjoint ventureJointVenturepeugeo citroenPeugeoCitroenpeugeotpsapsa peugeot citroenPsaPeugeotCitroentechnology sharingTechnologySharingTue, 27 Oct 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Peugeot planning RCZ Roadster?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rumormill-peugeot-planning-rcz-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rumormill-peugeot-planning-rcz-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rumormill-peugeot-planning-rcz-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Peugeot RCZ - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you were enamored of the new Peugeot RCZ when it finally debuted in production guise at the Frankfurt show last month, the latest product of the French rumor mill has got more in store for you. According to emerging reports from across the pond, Peugeot is planning to compliment the svelte coupe with a convertible counterpart.

Because the existing 308 on which the RCZ is based already offers a four-seat hard-top cabriolet in its range, sources anticipate that the drop-top RCZ will feature a lighter and more compact conventional cloth roof that will take the place of the rear seats, giving Peugeot its first proper roadster in years. Alternative reports, however, suggest that the French automaker could go a different route with a removable carbon-fiber roof panel to give the RCZ a targa-esque option. In any event, Peugeot isn't expected to return to the North American market any time soon, so we'll just have to suffice with the superior engineering of the Audi TT whose styling the RCZ apes.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ


[Source: L'Automobile (translated) via eurocarblog]

Rumormill: Peugeot planning RCZ Roadster? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>peugeotpeugeot 308 rc zpeugeot rczpeugeot rcz convertiblepeugeot rcz roadsterpeugeot rcz spiderpeugeot rcz spyderpeugeot rcz targaPeugeot308RcZPeugeotRczPeugeotRczConvertiblePeugeotRczRoadsterPeugeotRczSpiderPeugeotRczSpyderPeugeotRczTargarczrcz convertiblercz roadsterrcz spiderrcz spyderRczConvertibleRczRoadsterRczSpiderRczSpyderTue, 20 Oct 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spoiler Alert: Rain, Rain Go Away! Downpour makes Petit Le Mans even more so]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/spoiler-alert-rain-rain-go-away-downpour-makes-petit-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/spoiler-alert-rain-rain-go-away-downpour-makes-petit-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/spoiler-alert-rain-rain-go-away-downpour-makes-petit-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2009 Petit Le Mans - Click above for high-res image gallery

The American Le Mans Series held its flagship race, the Petit Le Mans over the weekend at Road Atlanta, and it was more petit than normal. The race is scheduled to run for 10 hours or 1,000 miles - whichever comes first. However, the rains that have plagued the Atlanta region for the past two weeks just couldn't hold off any longer Saturday afternoon. After relatively clear running Thursday and Friday for practice and qualifying, the clouds returned Saturday for race time. After sporadic showers and drizzle throughout the first several hours, the clouds really opened up in the fifth hour.

The safety car came out for a full course yellow for a while, but the ground around the track was already waterlogged, making proper drainage impossible. With cars aquaplaning everywhere even on full rain tires, continued running became impossible and the race was red-flagged at 4 hours and 52 minutes in hopes the rain would subside. Unfortunately, it never did and the race was called at 9:30pm. Click on the jump to find out what happened while the cars were still running.


Gallery: 2009 Petit Le Mans


[Images: Chris Graythen/Darrell Ingham/Getty]

Continue reading Spoiler Alert: Rain, Rain Go Away! Downpour makes Petit Le Mans even more so

Spoiler Alert: Rain, Rain Go Away! Downpour makes Petit Le Mans even more so originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mansamerican le mans ser...american le mans seriesamerican lemans seriesAmericanLeMansAmericanLeMansSer...AmericanLeMansSeriesAudidiesel racingDieselRacingpetit le mansPetit LemansPetitLeMansPeugeotplmMon, 28 Sep 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mike Rockenfeller guides a tour of the Audi pit at Petit Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/video-mike-rockenfeller-guides-a-tour-of-the-audi-pit-at-petit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/video-mike-rockenfeller-guides-a-tour-of-the-audi-pit-at-petit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/video-mike-rockenfeller-guides-a-tour-of-the-audi-pit-at-petit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view the video after the jump

With the American Le Mans Series returning to Road Atlanta this weekend for its flagship event, the Petit Le Mans, Audi has returned to take on the French. Peugeot, of course, won this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans after a multi-year battle with the diesel-powered Audis. So far, in the first three open practice sessions on Thursday, Peugeot's diesels continued to have a speed advantage over the Audi entries, with Frank Montagny setting the fastest time of the week so far during the night practice session at 1:07.912, three-quarters ahead of the second Peugeot, and the Audis also running third and fourth.

Earlier on Thursday, one of Audi's reserve drivers for the ten hour race, Mike Rockenfeller, conducted a backstage tour of the Audi paddock where the crew were preparing the cars for the first practice. This is back in an area that spectators don't get to see much of. As the cars were being taken out to the track, Rockenfeller went into the big tent behind the pit where the engineers were pouring over telemetry data on their screens trying to figure out how to make the R15 faster. Check out the videos after the jump.


Gallery: Audi R15 TDI


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mike Rockenfeller guides a tour of the Audi pit at Petit Le Mans

VIDEO: Mike Rockenfeller guides a tour of the Audi pit at Petit Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mansamerican le mans ser...american le mans seriesamerican lemans seriesAmericanLeMansAmericanLeMansSer...AmericanLeMansSeriesaudiaudi r15audi r15 tdiAudiR15AudiR15Tdifalsemike rockenfellerMikeRockenfellerpetit le mansPetitLeManspeugeotpeugeot 908 hdipeugeot908hdiplmvideoFri, 25 Sep 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot BB1 Concept is messing with our minds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-bb1-concept-is-messing-with-our-minds/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-bb1-concept-is-messing-with-our-minds/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-bb1-concept-is-messing-with-our-minds/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Peugeot BB1 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

You know what the problem with Smart cars is? Not tough enough! Regardless, meet the Peugeot BB1. Yes, it is the logical result of a one night stand between a Subaru SVX and a Peel 50. What are we talking about? We don't even know what we're looking at. Feel free to read a rational account of the Peugeot BB1 at your leisure.

OK fine -- our editor is forcing us to tell you some facts about the BB1. Four wheels for sure. And the weirdly curved glass is all tilted forward before eventually morphing into solar panels on the roof. You steer it with moto-style handle bars. No word if you can opt for a set of ape-hangers, but why on earth not? Engine? Hey - it's a concept, you don't need no stinking engine. Uh.. oh! There are tiny rear-hinged doors with even tinier roll-down windows. So now you know what happens if you allow French automotive weirdness to go unchecked.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Peugeot BB1 Concept


Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot BB1 Concept is messing with our minds originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BB1BB1 ConceptBb1ConceptFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowPeugeotPeugeot BB1Peugeot BB1 ConceptPeugeotBb1PeugeotBb1ConceptWed, 16 Sep 2009 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ is our kind of French connection]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-rcz-is-our-kind-of-french-connection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-rcz-is-our-kind-of-french-connection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-rcz-is-our-kind-of-french-connection/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Peugeot RCZ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Some things are worth waiting for. Take the Peugeot RCZ, for example. French auto giant PSA has been talking about putting the RCZ into production since initially unveiling it as a concept car in this very hall back in 2007. And that day has finally arrived with the unveiling of the production-ready coupe here in Frankfurt.

The critics may say the styling is too close to the Audi TT, but to our eyes that's no bad thing. And while there are certainly some TT-esque design traits coming through, there is plenty to set this apart as uniquely Peugeot. Sporting a Zagato-style double-bubble roof and muscular wheel arches, the RCZ is easily the most stylish French car this side of a Bugatti.

Mechanically, it's based on the 308 hatchback, but the svelte coupe has dropped the numeric moniker on the road to production. Engines include 1.6-liter turbo fours with 156 or 200 horsepower and a 2-liter turbodiesel with 163 ponies. Also available with the oil-burning mill is a hybrid drivetrain supplemented by a 37-horsepower electric motor that matches the top gas engine's output while upping the ante with all-wheel-drive and environmental bragging rights. Have a closer look in the gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ


Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ is our kind of French connection originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShow308308 rcz308Rczfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt motor show 2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2009peugeotpeugeot 308peugeot rczPeugeot308PeugeotRczrczWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot mixes car with scooter to create the BB1 Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-mixes-car-with-scooter-to-create-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-mixes-car-with-scooter-to-create-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-mixes-car-with-scooter-to-create-the/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Peugeot BB1 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If a scooter is too small, dangerous and uncovered for your tastes but you'd still like to have as minimal an impact on your surroundings as possible, Peugeot has just the concept car for you. Called the BB1, the French automaker says of its Frankfurt Motor Show-bound machine, "Its mother is a scooter. Its father is a car." Right.

So, the unholy offspring of a mini two-wheeler and a city car would look something like a cartoon car that's straining to stop before smashing into a brick wall. Good to know. One thing is for certain: you won't mistake the Peugeot BB1 for anything else on the road. With its exaggerated forward-pitched stance, solar cell-covered glass bubble roof and protruding head and tail lamps, this is one concept that stands apart from the rest of the crowd.

Amazingly, Peugeot has found a way to cram four human beings inside the BB1, and those occupants gain access to the cabin via a pair of reverse-hinged doors with mini roll-down windows. Driving the diminutive machine would surely be an experience, and the controls are more akin to those from a motorcycle than a car. See for yourself in our gallery below, and stay tuned for more details as the doors in Frankfurt officially swing open in the morning.


Gallery: Peugeot BB1 Concept


[Source: World Car Fans]

Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot mixes car with scooter to create the BB1 Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi R15 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Audi vs. Peugeot endurance racing battle will continue next month at Road Atlanta as the German team finally confirmed it will bring the R15 TDI back to America. Peugeot announced several weeks ago that it would run its Le Mans-winning 908 HDI at both the Petit Le Mans and Laguna Seca. So far Audi has only committed to the 10-hour race in Georgia. Audi Sport Team Joest will be running the two R15s for the German automaker.

The diesel-powered racers opened up the season battling at the 12 hours of Sebring with the R15 grabbing a debut victory. From there, the Franco-Prussian war moved on to the 24 Hours of Le Mans where Peugeot finally came through with a win after three years of trying.

Audi motorsports boss Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich blamed a lack of testing for the team's failure in France this year and plans to have the team test at Road Atlanta the week prior to the race next month. Hopefully, Audi will stick around for the California race, as well. Full press release after the jump, and thanks to all for the tips!


Gallery: 12 Hours of Sebring - 2009


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Game On! Audi headed to Petit Le Mans to challenge Peugeot

Game On! Audi headed to Petit Le Mans to challenge Peugeot originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>almsamerican le mansamerican le mans ser...american le mans seriesamerican le mans series green challengeamerican lemans seriesAmericanLeMansAmericanLeMansSer...AmericanLeMansSeriesAmericanLeMansSeriesGreenChallengeaudiaudi r15audi r15 tdiAudiR15AudiR15Tdipetit le mansPetitLeManspeugeotTue, 25 Aug 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot to show production 3008 HYBrid, 5008, RCZ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-to-show-production-3008-hybrid-5008/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-to-show-production-3008-hybrid-5008/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-to-show-production-3008-hybrid-5008/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Peugeot RCZ HYBrid4 concept - click above for high-res image gallery

The Frankfurt Motor Show next month will be a busy place for Peugeot, as the French automaker plans to unveil two new production models plus its first production hybrid along with a gas-electric concept vehicle. The 5008 minivan and RCZ sport coupe are both making their first public appearances as production models, and a second version of the RCZ will also be on display equipped with Peugeot's new HYBrid4 powertrain. HYBrid4 is a parallel through-the-road system that utilizes a conventional internal combustion powertrain that powers one end.

A battery and electric motor reside at the opposite end. In both the RCZ and 3008 crossover, the electric drive is at the rear axle. The system allows the vehicle to have on demand all-wheel drive and can operate in internal combustion, EV or blended modes. The advantage of splitting the powertrains it vastly reduces mechanical complexity compared to power split systems like those from Toyota and Ford. There currently aren't any production plans for the RCZ hybrid, although that could easily change.

The 3008 HYBrid4 is scheduled to launch in early 2011 and may well be the first diesel hybrid light duty vehicle on the road. The 3008 crossover is projected to have CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km while the RCZ would cut that to just 95 g/km.

The conventional gas-powered RCZ coupe debuts next spring with a 200 horsepower, 1.6-liter four cylinder. Meanwhile, the 5008 will join Chrysler's minivans in being shown with an available in-car WIFI hot-spot.


Gallery: Peugeot debuts at Frankfurt 2009


[Source: Peugeot]

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot to show production 3008 HYBrid, 5008, RCZ

Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot to show production 3008 HYBrid, 5008, RCZ originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowpeugeotpeugeot 3008 hybridpeugeot 3008 hybrid4peugeot 5008peugeot rczpeugeot rcz hybrid4Peugeot3008HybridPeugeot3008Hybrid4Peugeot5008PeugeotRczPeugeotRczHybrid4rczMon, 17 Aug 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: BMW considers sharing Mini platform with PSA Peugeot Citroën]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/report-bmw-considers-sharing-mini-platform-with-psa-peugeot-cit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/report-bmw-considers-sharing-mini-platform-with-psa-peugeot-cit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/report-bmw-considers-sharing-mini-platform-with-psa-peugeot-cit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mini 50 Mayfair -- Click above for high-res image gallery

According to a report from Financial Times in the U.K., BMW may be in preliminary talks to share small car platforms for future Mini variants with PSA Peugeot Citroën. The two European automakers already share the range of small four-cylinder engines powering the Mini line, which seems to lend an air of credence to rumors of an expanded collaborative effort.

While stopping short of confirming the report, both BMW chief Norbert Reithofer and PSA head Philippe Varin have indicated a willingness to work together and have reportedly met twice so far since May. Whispers of platform sharing is nothing new for BMW these days - earlier this year, we again heard the oft-repeated rumor that BMW was working with Fiat on a shared platform for something even smaller than the regular-grade Mini, possibly as part of its long-rumored Isetta revival.


Gallery: MINI 50 Mayfair


[Source: Financial Times - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: BMW considers sharing Mini platform with PSA Peugeot Citroën originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 17:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw citroenbmw peugeotbmw peugeot partnershipbmw psaBmwCitroenBmwPeugeotBmwPeugeotPartnershipBmwPsaminimini coopermini platformMiniCooperMiniPlatformpeugeotpeugeot citroenPeugeotCitroenpsa peugeot citroenPsaPeugeotCitroenWed, 05 Aug 2009 17:26:00 EST<![CDATA[The Peugeots are coming to Petit Le Mans! Now, about those Audis...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/the-peugeots-are-coming-to-petit-le-mans-now-about-those-audis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/the-peugeots-are-coming-to-petit-le-mans-now-about-those-audis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/31/the-peugeots-are-coming-to-petit-le-mans-now-about-those-audis/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Peugeot has confirmed that for the second year running it will be sending its 908 HDi prototypes to Atlanta in September for the Petit Le Mans. Peugeot will be looking to follow up its victory at Le Mans last June with its first win at the ALMS flagship race. In France, Peugeot had a resounding victory over Audi's new R15 TDIs but so far the biggest competition in Atlanta will come from the LMP1 Acuras. Peugeot will be bringing two of the 908s to Georgia for the race that joins Sebring in becoming increasingly known as a warmup for the 24 hour race in France.

There have been repeated rumors that the R15s would return to the U.S. for the final two races at Road Atlanta and Laguna Seca for several months. We checked with Audi Motorsports spokeswoman Eva-Maria Veith, who said, "There is no decision made about any more races with the Audi R15 TDI this year. I hope that we will know more in the near future." Hopefully an official commitment from Peugeot will prompt Audi to try and avenge their loss in France.

[Source: American Le Mans Series]

The Peugeots are coming to Petit Le Mans! Now, about those Audis... originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american le mansamerican le mans ser...american le mans seriesamerican le mans series green challengeamerican lemans seriesAmericanLeMansAmericanLeMansSer...AmericanLeMansSeriesAmericanLeMansSeriesGreenChallengeaudiaudi r15audi r15 tdiAudiR15AudiR15Tdidiesel racingDieselRacingpetit le mansPetitLeManspeugeotpeugeot 908 hdipeugeot908hdiFri, 31 Jul 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: French workers vote against blowing up plant as long as their demands are met]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/report-french-workers-vote-against-blowing-up-plant-as-long-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/report-french-workers-vote-against-blowing-up-plant-as-long-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/report-french-workers-vote-against-blowing-up-plant-as-long-as/#commentsFiled under: ,



Workers at French car parts maker New Fabris (its main clients include Renault and Peugeot-Citroen) have voted down immediate plans to explosively send the roof of their plant into the troposphere, as long as talks with aides to Industry Minister Christian Estrosi are in the works. It seems that the workers, part of the CGT union, are demanding higher redundancy payouts as nearly 370 of them have lost their jobs following the collapse of the automotive sector.

Gas canisters had been placed around the factory to facilitate the pending pyrotechnics, but they have since been moved. Christian Paupineau, a delegate of the CGT union, told Reuters that the talks must be forthcoming. "There has to be significant progress. The canisters are being stored and kept under surveillance and they can be re-installed at any time," he added.

The threats to blow up factories is a relatively new tactic for French workers - employees used to vent frustration by taking their managers hostage (aka "bossnappings") until their demands were met. Union representatives are due to meet with the factory workers on Thursday... assuming nobody blows their lid in the meantime.

[Source: Reuters | Image: Alain Jocard/Getty]

REPORT: French workers vote against blowing up plant as long as their demands are met originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Christian PaupineauChristianPaupineauCitroenExplosionFrancenegotiationsNew FabrisNewFabrisPeugeotRenaultStrikeThreateningWorkersTue, 21 Jul 2009 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Peugeot releases first official teasers of 308 RC Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/peugeot-releases-first-official-teasers-of-308-rc-z/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/peugeot-releases-first-official-teasers-of-308-rc-z/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/peugeot-releases-first-official-teasers-of-308-rc-z/#commentsFiled under: ,

Peugeot 308 RC Z pre-production teasers - Click above for high-res image gallery

For a country so renowned for its style and fashion, you'd think France would have plenty of stylish automobiles on offer, but that's not necessarily the case. Though the country's hatchbacks and MPVs may look a touch sharper than the competition's, above that there's nothing especially stylish until you get to the seven-figure territory covered by such ultramobiles as the Bugatti Veyron and GTbyCitroen. Peugeot aims to fix that, though, with the 308 RC Z, though to some eyes it's design was influenced a bit too heavily by the Audi TT.

In case you've lost track by now, the 308 RC Z made its debut in concept form three long years ago. A lot has happened since then, including PSA's approval for the swept-roof coupe to enter production followed by recent spy shots demonstrating that its making good on its promise. And now Peugeot has released the first crop of teaser images showing the production-ready 308 RC Z. Tipped to carry the same jointly-developed turbocharged engine as the Mini JCW, the stylish Peugeot is expected to debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September.


Gallery: Peugeot 308 RC Z pre-production teasers


[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Peugeot releases first official teasers of 308 RC Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>308 rc z308RcZpeugeotpeugeot 308peugeot 308 rc zpeugeot rc zPeugeot308Peugeot308RcZPeugeotRcZpsapsa peugeot citroenPsaPeugeotCitroenrc zRcZTue, 14 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Peugeot Metromorph Concept brings <em>Minority Report</em>, Transformers to life [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/peugeot-metromorph-concept-brings-em-minority-report-em-tran/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/peugeot-metromorph-concept-brings-em-minority-report-em-tran/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/24/peugeot-metromorph-concept-brings-em-minority-report-em-tran/#commentsFiled under: ,


Peugeot Metromorph Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Designed by Roman Mistiuk, the Peugeot Metromorph Concept looks like a set piece from Minority Report or the discarded idea for a new Transformers character. That's because the Metromorph has dual modes: One as a battery-powered electric vehicle and the other as... a balcony. Cars that climb up buildings and park themselves right outside your bay window were first seen in the sci-fi thriller Minority Report starring Tom Cruise. The Metromorph, however, has a purpose other than as a landing platform for Tom Cruise during a chase scene.

The idea is that real estate for parking will be scarce in the future, so the Metromorph will go vertical up the side of your building and park outside your apartment, at which point it becomes a balcony. This is where the Transformers bit comes in, though we admit transforming into a balcony isn't likely to scare Megatron into a quivering mass of mechanized steel. Nevertheless, the Metromorph will save the humans by freeing up parking spaces for other uses, like a quidditch stadium or whatever else becomes the national past time in the future.

With space for two, the Metromorph features seats held by rotating arms to keep them vertical regardless of the car's orientation. Two in-wheel electric motors housed in the rear wheels motivate this balcony-on-wheels, while two giant doors will slide up and over the vehicle to allow entry and exit. Is this what the future holds for urban dwellers? Time, and the movies, will tell.

Follow the jump to watch a conceptual video of the Metromorph in action.


Gallery: Peugeot Metromorph Concept


[Source: Roman Mistiuk]

Continue reading Peugeot Metromorph Concept brings Minority Report, Transformers to life [w/VIDEO]

Peugeot Metromorph Concept brings Minority Report, Transformers to life [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metromorphpeugeotpeugeot metromorphpeugeot metromorph conceptPeugeotMetromorphPeugeotMetromorphConceptroman mistiukRomanMistiukWed, 24 Jun 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Peugeot finally at the top]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-takes-top-two-podiums/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-takes-top-two-podiums/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/2009-24-hours-of-le-mans-peugeot-takes-top-two-podiums/#commentsFiled under:



382 laps. 3,247 miles. 24 hours. If you haven't been following along, that's the recipe for Peugeot's first and second place finish at the 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans. After a ten-minute stint in the pits, the No. 1 R15's fate was sealed, and when the checkered flag finally dropped, the Audi was seven laps behind the No. 9 Peugeot. But just as impressive asPeugeot's win (and its first-place standing since 9 pm last night) is the 007 Lola Aston Martin's fourth-place finish, the Corvette C6.R's complete and utter dominance of GT1 and the fact that every single GT2 car - including the No. 85 Spyker C8 Laviolette - beat out the lone Porsche 911 GT3 RSR after the three other 997s slowly succumbed to attrition. We're going to leave it to the analysts and commentators to pick apart how the race was won (or lost), but we will say that our first experience at Le Mans left us in awe of the competitors, the support teams and, most impressively, the mass of fans that descended on the circuit. It's a goosebump-inducing experience and needless to say, we highly recommend it. Time for a much-needed shower and some rest. Check the gallery below for plenty of photos from the finish and see the full standings here.


Gallery: 2009 24 Hours of Le Mans - Finish

2009 24 Hours of Le Mans: Peugeot finally at the top originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 24 hours of le mans2009 24 hours of lemans200924HoursOfLeMans24 hours of le mans24 hours of lemans24HoursOfLemansbreakingpeugeotSun, 14 Jun 2009 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Peugeot lodges protest against the Audi R15 TDI at Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/report-peugeot-lodges-protest-against-the-audi-r15-tdi-at-le-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/report-peugeot-lodges-protest-against-the-audi-r15-tdi-at-le-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/report-peugeot-lodges-protest-against-the-audi-r15-tdi-at-le-ma/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The drama has already begun at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, albeit not the on-track kind. Peugeot has reportedly lodged a protest against Audi's R15 racer, charging that elements of the car's front wing are illegal. Peugeot asserts that the flap-like sections at the rear of the front wing, where "Michelin" appears in the above pic, are bodywork elements that are not allowed by the technical regulations.

Article 3.6.2 of the ACO's technical regulations allows two aerodynamic elements at the front of the car, but beyond that, "Any bodywork element the function of which is only to generate down force" is prohibited. Said Aston Martin's race head after the car was questioned at March's 12 Hours of Sebring, the components act "exactly like a flap on a wing, with the splitter arrangement acting as the main plane."

Peugeot raised its concerns earlier this year, but the Audi has been scrutinized every race since. Peugeot says it doesn't want to hurt the competition, it simply wants the rules clarified. However, if the Le Mans stewards rule against the French team, it says it will take its case all the way to the FIA. And if that happens, Sunday's result will be unofficial until the high racing court decides. Thanks for the tip, mforty!

[Source: Motorsport.com]

REPORT: Peugeot lodges protest against the Audi R15 TDI at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acoaudifiale mansLeMansmotorsportspeugeotWed, 10 Jun 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA Chairman Thierry Peugeot keen on merger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/psa-chairman-thierry-peugeot-keen-on-merger/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/psa-chairman-thierry-peugeot-keen-on-merger/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/psa-chairman-thierry-peugeot-keen-on-merger/#commentsFiled under: ,


PSA/Peugeot-Citroen incoming CEO Philippe Varin (left) and chairman Thierry Peugeot (right)

It's buddy-up time in the European auto industry, and French automaker PSA/Peugeot-Citroen does not want to be left all by itself. With Fiat gobbling up automakers large and small, and General Motors poised to sell off its European assets, the Peugeot family, which owns a controlling interest in parent company PSA, wants to pursue a merger. And towards that end, the family has stated its willingness to dilute its own interest in Europe's second-largest automaker.

Currently, the Peugeot family - headed by the normally reclusive Thierry Peugeot (above, right), chairman of the company's supervisory board - holds 30% of PSA's shares, and controls 45% of its voting rights. The Peugeots would be willing to give up some of its shares, as long as it remained the largest shareholder. The announcement came the day before the company's annual shareholders meeting, at which Philippe Varin (above, left) was presented as PSA's new chief executive to replace the ousted Christian Streiff.

[Source: Automotive News Europe - Sub. Req.]

PSA Chairman Thierry Peugeot keen on merger originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christian streiffChristianStreiffcitroenmergermergers and acquisitionsMergersAndAcquisitionspeugeotpeugeot familyPeugeotFamilyphilippe varinPhilippeVarinpsapsa mergerpsa peugeot citroenPsaMergerPsaPeugeotCitroenthierry peugeotThierryPeugeotFri, 05 Jun 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot releases new 5008 minivan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-releases-new-5008-minivan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-releases-new-5008-minivan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/frankfurt-preview-peugeot-releases-new-5008-minivan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Peugeot 5008 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The French are known for two things: style and love. Trouble is, the product of the latter tends to cramp the former. So what's an amorous Frenchman to do? If the legion has grown too large for the cabrio, then perhaps you get one of these: the new Peugeot 5008. The French automaker's latest MPV (that's Euro-speak for "minivan") offers a wide variety of configuration options to accommodate loads of cargo or up to seven passengers in a tech- and glass-intensive cabin to make cruising in this Très Grand Véhicule as comfortable as a ride through the Alps in a rail-bound TGV.

Among the gizmos incorporated into the new 5008 are a head-up dashboard display, Snow Motion traction control, a choice of nav systems and, of course, a full multimedia array to keep the kids placated while watching Asterix. There are a couple of gasoline engines available - 1.6-liter turbos with either 120 or 150 horsepower - but most buyers will probably opt for one of the four diesel options, ranging from 109 horses up to 163. When the 5008 makes its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this coming September, we doubt anybody will be falling in love - but the svelt brood buggy could come in handy if you already have. High-res gallery below, full details in the encyclopedia press release after the jump.


Gallery: Peugeot 5008

Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot releases new 5008 minivan

Frankfurt Preview: Peugeot releases new 5008 minivan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5008frankfurtfrankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowminivanmpvpeugeotpeugeot 5008peugeot minivanpeugeot mpvPeugeot5008PeugeotMinivanPeugeotMpvWed, 03 Jun 2009 08:57:00 EST