Peugeot Sport’s technical director, Olivier Jansonnie, revealed to the media at Imola that the decision to add a rear wing to the new 2024 9X8 Le Mans Hypercar was motivated by the change in tire size. Unlike the previous model, the new version of the 9X8 utilizes 29-inch tires at the front and 34-inch tires at the rear. Jansonnie explained that this alteration in tire dimensions required a rebalancing of the car’s weight distribution to optimize performance. In essence, the entire design change was driven by the need to accommodate the specific characteristics of the tires.
Initially, Peugeot believed that the use of 31-inch tires could be compensated by the Balance of Performance regulations. However, their simulation models indicated that the 29/34 tire combination would yield better results. Unfortunately, this assumption did not prove entirely accurate. Jansonnie acknowledged that they had anticipated the superior performance of the 29/34 tires when the regulations were modified to allow their use in LMH cars. Nevertheless, the extent of the difference between the two tire dimensions was underestimated.
Jansonnie emphasized the significant changes implemented in the new 9X8, particularly in terms of aerodynamics. The introduction of a rear wing and a new floor were directly influenced by the alteration in tire dimensions. These modifications resulted in a completely different car, with only the cooling ducts and monocoque chassis being carried over from the previous model. The rest of the aerodynamic surfaces are entirely new, reflecting the impact of the tire change on the overall design.
Driver Nico Muller, who competes in the #93 Peugeot 9X8, expressed his belief that the car feels more connected compared to its predecessor. According to Muller, the car responds more intuitively to setup changes and is easier to bring into its optimal performance range. This improved connectivity enhances the overall driving experience and allows for more precise adjustments.
While Peugeot achieved a podium finish in last year’s 6 Hours of Monza and showed promise at the 2024 Qatar 1812 km season-opener, their initial homologated version of the 9X8 struggled to match the pace of their competitors. However, with the introduction of the new tire dimensions, Peugeot aims to benefit from improved traction at low-speed corners, thanks to the KERS hybrid system’s deployment above 150 kph. This strategic decision aligns with the manufacturer’s commitment to maximizing performance and staying competitive in the racing arena.