Peugeot Onyx Concept
Onyx is the new precious metal.
Peugeot's Onyx is the latest in a long line of fantastic Supercar concepts to debut at the Paris Auto Show, and it doesn't disappoint.
Low slung, and sinister in matte black paint over carbon bodywork, the Onyx generally shares its proportions with the rest of the mid-engined V-8 supercar crowd. Peugeot's designers put less emphasis on muscular fenders in favor of flat surfaces and minimized drag. It's a pleasing take on proven supercar proportions.
Video window may take a few moments to load...With automakers determined to show off their improving fuel economy and emissions credentials, even in their high-performance cars, the choice of a hybrid electric powertrain could be considered de rigeur for a contemporary Supercar concept. In this case, the primary motivation comes from a 3.7-liter V-8 diesel. As bolted to the 100kg carbon chassis the system is good for 600-bhp. Six flat rectangular exhausts exit through the lower third of the bumper, staining the exposed carbon there yellow.
Peugeot Onyx Concept
What makes the Onyx stand out from its supercar coterie is Peugeot's choice of trim materials. Where another manufacturer might show off their carbon underpinnings or splash on a bit of garish paint to make a statement, Peugeot instead relies on a color palate you might find at a favorite pub. Pure copper skins polished to a mirror finish cover the doors, and are intended to dull and fade into a soft patina with age. The skins separate from the doors when opening and closing. Above, the double-bubble roof is constructed of Plexiglass, revealing the impressive interior.
Peugeot Onyx Concept
Inside, soft white wool felt takes the place of leather and glossy, hard surfaces. Molded into a single large "tub," Peugeot is able to create a nearly seamless skin of felt from the floor through the seats. In using this sustainable material, Peugeot claims they're able to eliminate other components like soundproofing insulation. Foam placed under the felt fits the seats to the occupants. In another novel use of materials, the dash is constructed of "newspaper wood," a material consisting of newsprint compressed and formed to give the impression of wood. Only on close inspection do its humble origins reveal themselves with the appearance of type layered inside the "wood." Peugeot Interior Designer Julian Cueff claims the interior was, in part, inspired by the design of an "egg box," a design admired by the team for its combination of economy and ergonomics.
Peugeot Onyx Concept
Weighing in at 1100kg, the Onyx would have true supercar potential, and the car is equipped to make the most of it. Carbon ceramic brakes (380mm front, 355mm rear) are visible behind 20-inch wheels, and the hybrid system stores energy typically lost when braking in lithium-ion battery cells which can be called on to give back an 80-bhp boost upon acceleration. A slick 0.30 Cd is aided by a flat carbon underbody and an active rear wing that uses aerodynamics to shift loads to the rear axle on braking.
Peugeot's Onyx represents an exciting design exercise, one where a performance car is defined as much by the performance of its component materials as it is by performance itself. With the industry buzzing about sustainability we can expect to see more cars featuring high-end sustainable materials in the future. It will remain to be seen however, if cars like Onyx will become the jewels in Peugeot's crown.
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