•In 2015, the Peugeot RCZ was retired, and the name made a surprise return in the form of the new RCZ Vision concept car. While retaining the classic coupe identity, the car no longer features an internal combustion engine in the engine bay. The RCZ, which the brand put out of service without a successor in 2015, was expected to remain a footnote in the history of this beloved but not very popular coupé. Now, the name has made a surprise return in the form of the RCZ Vision concept. The electric coupé from the Peugeot brand is based on the new generation ‘STLA One’ architecture that Peugeot unveiled earlier this year. Like the original car, it has a double-bubble roof, but the windows on the car extend from the hood to the rear of the car, with a typical showy interpretation. The interior of the car is probably the most relevant part for future production vehicles. Instead of a steering wheel, the car features a rectangular control device with thumb grips called Hypersquare. In vehicles with such a device, the traditional steering mechanism cannot work; therefore, the RCZ Vision has a steer-by-wire (electronic steering) system that eliminates the physical connection. The variable ratio of this system is said to require less than a full turn to achieve full lock at low speeds, and the ratio decreases at high speeds. Peugeot also claims that the technology filters out unwanted vibrations caused by imperfections on the road surface and provides noticeable driving comfort under all conditions.
Unlike the production RCZ, the model with its small rear seats offers much more generous space for rear passengers, with the rear bench able to accommodate two adults or fold flat for more luggage space. There is no bet that the new RCZ will go into production. Instead, the focus seems to be on a broader Peugeot performance vehicle preview, which is expected to be featured in the next E-208 GTI car.
