Peugeot Unveils E-T16 Concept: An 816bhp Electric Hyperhatch Paying Homage to Rally Icon
Inspired by the legendary 205 T16, the E-T16 boasts hypercar-level performance with three electric motors and all-wheel drive.
Peugeot has unveiled a powerful electric concept car, the E-T16, inspired by the brand's iconic 205 T16 hot hatch. The concept celebrates 40 years since the 205 T16 secured back-to-back World Rally Championship titles in 1985 and 1986.
The E-T16 features three electric motors and all-wheel drive, producing a significant 816 horsepower, making it the most powerful road-going Peugeot conceived. The hyperhatch is capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.5 seconds, with a claimed 0 to 186 mph (300 km/h) time of 16 seconds. These performance figures place it in supercar territory, with a power-to-weight ratio of less than 2kg per horsepower.
The concept is designed to withstand sustained high-performance driving, incorporating side cooling technology for its battery pack, similar to that developed in motorsport. Peugeot claims the E-T16 can complete three laps of the Nürburgring Nordschleife, over 60 kilometers, without power reduction. It offers three driving modes, including a track-focused setting, and a custom mode for tailoring powertrain, suspension, and torque distribution.
True to its rally heritage, the E-T16 includes a vertically mounted hydraulic handbrake, grippy Michelin tires, and large 380mm brake discs. The exterior design is aggressive, with heavily flared wheelarches, large air vents, a sculpted bonnet, significant diffusers, and a towering rear wing. The Winchester Matte Grey paint is a nod to the original T16's color, complemented by a red illuminated line that pays homage to the classic model's pinstripe.
Inside, the E-T16 features a prominent 21-inch curved display and Peugeot's upcoming Hypersquare steering wheel, an alternative to conventional round steering wheels. The cabin incorporates materials like carbon fiber and anodized aluminum, with deeply sculpted bucket seats. A red theme is present throughout the interior, including the roll cage and roof lining, reinforcing its motorsport-inspired character.
The E-T16 is built on an 800-volt electrical architecture with an 85kWh battery pack, offering a claimed driving range of 248 miles. Fast charging is also a feature, with the capability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in under 15 minutes using a high-power charger.
While Peugeot has not confirmed production plans for the E-T16, its unveiling as a concept suggests the brand may leverage its competition heritage for future electrified models. This follows a trend seen with rival Renault, which confirmed limited production for its reborn R5 3e Turbo concept. Peugeot also debuted an RCZ Vision concept, an electric take on its former 2+2 coupe, which features a 1,000-volt architecture and solid-state battery technology.