Peugeot's Oddball Le Mans Hypercar May Be Getting a Rear Wing After All

This time was going to be different, Peugeot thought. Its revolutionary-looking Hypercar entry wouldn't need a rear wing, because it was a special darling making downforce on its own terms. Oh, how those hollow words fell.

As reported by DailySportscar.com, changes are afoot ahead of the next season of Hypercar competition. Namely, the Peugeot 9X8, which competes under the LMH rules, could be getting a major makeover. Initially designed to rely primarily on underbody downforce, the 9X8 will likely add a rear wing for more aero grip next year.

DailySportscar.com states unnamed sources that report Peugeot will heavily rework the aerodynamic concept for its Hypercar entry. While the car will use the same basic monocoque chassis, it will no longer rely on its innovative wingless design. Instead, it appears that a more typical aero setup has been designed for the car, including a flat floor and a full-size rear wing.

LMH cars are allowed up to five performance upgrades over their competition life, with safety and reliability upgrades not counted towards this total. However, these upgrades are subject to a complicated approval process involving the FIA and ACO. The aim is to allow the governing bodies to manage the Balance of Performance between rival manufacturers to maintain close competition.