TECHNICAL REGENERATION

Lightweight: “The 208’s bodyshell is approximately 40kg lighter than that of the 207! In addition, the 208’s overall volumes are one of the R2’s chief strengths, while its long wheelbase ensures excellent stability. Weight-saving work has enabled us to bring down the centre of gravity further, optimise where the weight is located and reduce the intrinsically low inertia of this car with its short overhangs. These features combine to provide the 208 R2 with outstanding road holding.”

Modern structure: “The 208 R2’s strengthened shell incorporates a multi-point, welded roll cage which marks a real step forward in terms of safety compared to rival roll cages thanks to a new manufacturing process.”

Modern engine: To comply with the regulations, Peugeot Sport has developed for the 208 R2 is powered by a brand new, naturally-aspirated, 1.600cc engine based on the 1.6 VTi available for certain versions of the 208 road car. “For the competition version of this engine, we started from a clean sheet of paper and achieved the 185hp specified in the brief. At the same time, we succeeded in maintaining the low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions that are features of the original engine. This extremely modern powerplant comes with variable valve timing (VVT) for the intake and exhaust. The Group R regulations specify that the valves must be of the same size as those of the standard engine. Like its air intake dimensions, the 1.6 VTi’s valves are smaller than those of the former 1.6 unit. The main factors which influence performance in the case of a normally-aspirated engine are its valves and intake, so we worked closely with Sodemo to make our new engine driver-friendly by focusing on flexibility rather than on peak power which often goes unused in rallying. We achieved this thanks to the use of VVT. The 208 R2 kits will be sold with the engine built, run-in and checked on the dyno.”

Innovative gearbox: “The gearbox, too, is new. The 208 R2 is equipped with a five-speed, manual, sequential gearbox with the lever mounted on the steering column. The gearshift system is identical to that of the 207 S2000 and represents a significant evolution for a car of this class in which the original gearshift is more conventionally mounted on the floor. The lever is much shorter and also positioned higher, while the shift is more direct and precise because it is in line with the gearbox. The system is much more rigid since it is shorter and lighter. The gearbox itself features innovative cooling with an air duct at the front of the car which channels cooling air to fins built into the front part of the casing which help dissipate heat and cool the oil.”

Reduced fuel consumption: The lower weight, carefully designed aerodynamics and naturally-aspirated engine have resulted in a significant fuel consumption saving compared to the 207 RC Rallye. This makes an appreciable contribution to keeping the costs of competing to a minimum.

Suspension performance: “We have carried over the proven three-way adjustable dampers, plus a new, bespoke adjustable hydraulic bump stop which has been developed specially in association with our supplier Öhlins. The R2 also features a specific wishbone arrangement which increases suspension travel. This, in turn, improves traction and is positive for the car’s performance.”

Hydraulic steering: “The 208 R2’s steering is specific, too. We have switched from the standard car’s electric power steering to a hydraulic system, combined with a higher-ratio hydraulic rack for greater precision and enhanced comfort in response to demand from the drivers. The use of a hydraulic system also permits more accurate feedback of information, notably on loose surfaces.”

Single calliper brakes: “The diameter of the brake discs is dictated by the regulations. As wear parts, they need to be effective and reliable, but also relatively economical. To simplify the ordering and management of parts and to facilitate the conversion from gravel- to asphalt-spec (and vice-versa), we have opted for a single Alcon calliper plus standard, re-machined discs. Thanks to the floating calliper arrangement, the conversion from gravel- to asphalt-spec only requires the calliper mount to be changed.”

Clutch: The 184mm-diameter single clutch plate arrangement is dictated by the regulations. Peugeot Sport specifies an Alcon plate for the R2.

Wheels: the wheels are also covered by strict regulations regarding their width, diameter and weight.

Tyres: All the 208 R2 development work was done on tyres provided by Michelin, Peugeot’s Sport partner.