Peugeot getting ready for Le Mans return with new hypercar

Toyota remains to be the only major car manufacturer to compete in the LMP1 Class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans after Porsche and Audi exited a few years back. But that will all change in the next few years.

Peugeot has announced that they will return to Le Mans, and they will compete at the FIA”s new Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) class from the 2022 season.

Peugeot announced their partnership with French oil company Total for their return to Le Mans. At the same time, they have also released a teaser as to what their hypercar class challenger will look like.

The French automaker has not given a name for the Le Mans hypercar just yet. But based on its silhouette, it looks very aggressive. Although most of the hypercar is still blackened, Peugeot does reveal the racer features Peugeot's now-signature “3-claw” LED headlights and taillights. No doubt it looks ready to take on Toyota's GR Super Sport hypercar.

No official powertrain details were released. But, Peugeot says it will use a hybrid powertrain producing around 680 horsepower. Per regulation standards, all-wheel drive will come standard and will be longer, wider, and heavier than current LMP1 models.

“Le Mans is the holy grail of the automobile world”, says Jean Philippe Imparato, Peugeot brand CEO. “It is the race who determines its winner. For us, this represents 3 victories but also the endless sweat, tears and joy and an incredible team spirit with Total with whom we celebrate this year, 25 years of collaboration.”

Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus and Aston Martin have also announced interest in the endurance race in the LMH class.

Excited for Peugeot Le Mans return? We certainly are. The French automaker has two Le Mans wins under their belt before pulling out of the World Endurance Championship after the 2011 season.