|  The raison d’etre of any concept car is to explore new ideas and to test those ideas in an attempt to create the ultimate solution. Know-how and passion, combined with imagination then become the motive force that turns dreams into reality. The Peugeot 908 RC evokes passion and imagination to allow us to dream but it will also have a serious side.
The original idea behind the 908 RC was to create a limousine with an imposing style that offered a whole new sensation in driving. The final result however, is a car that combines comfort and luxury with dynamic performance while taking care to reduce it´s environmental footprint. The 908 RC is powered by Peugeot’s V12 HDi DPFS (diesel particulate filter system) diesel engine designed to take part in the "Le Mans Race Series" program in 2007.
The engine has a capacity of 5.5-liters and offers a level of performance unprecedented for a diesel engine, with a maximum power output greater than 700 bhp and, above all, an exceptional torque in excess of 885 lb-ft. With a 100° V angle architecture, the engine’s center of gravity is as low as possible.
The originality of the 908 RC resides in its compact design, with the engine arranged in a rear central transverse position. Similarly the compact 6-speed electronically controlled sequential gearbox has been specially adapted to withstand the phenomenal torque, and is located under the engine. The design of the 908 RC creates a particularly low-lying exterior body with a stylish tapered design at the front of the vehicle. Its proportions create an elegant and dynamic statement. Sitting on large diameter 20 spoke alloy wheels (20'' at the front, 21'' at the rear); the overall effect is that of a big cat, from the nose at the front, to the tip of the rear lights. More than ever, the Marque's emblem has played a part in fashioning the power of expression of the 908 RC. At the front, the lion's character seems to emanate from each detail, starting with the design of the headlights. Lighting is provided by light-emitting diodes (LEDs), with their dazzling appearance the result of a special fi nish given to the internal components. The exterior appearance of the lights looks like a crystal cut like a precious stone, creating a faint outline like the pupil of an eye. The bonnet draws its inspiration directly from the head of a big cat. The areas either side of the bonnet create the effect of the cat's 'cheeks' with the bonnet tapering down to a nose, highlighted by the large chromed emblem of the Marque. A lot of attention has been paid to the design of the exterior body, with its lack of door handles creating surfaces of great simplicity and purity, and highlighting to maximum effect the refl ections that accentuate every facet of the body. Aligned with the curves of the car's pronounced 'hindquarters', the rear lights, equipped with LEDs, incorporate a polished aluminium insert evoking the shape of a powerful claw. The dynamic rear profi le is characterised by the shape of the rear air diffuser, accentuated by chrome detailing and supported visually on each side by twin exhaust pipes. The metallic black body colour with its bluish refl ections further enhances the impression of status, dynamism and purity portrayed by this car.
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