Peugeot Onyx
Peugeot's supercars have always made the eyes of both children and adults shine. In 2012, the Marque is again creating a dream with the supercar of the 21st century: the Onyx.
Sculpted using materials processed as little as possible, this supercar has been created by enthusiasts who have drawn their inspiration from the world of competition.
With its V8 engine in a central rear position, the Onyx propels its admirers into a world of high performance, controlled in all circumstances thanks to intuitive instruments and controls. In addition to its stunning aesthetics, it explores new ‘raw’ materials, to take efficiency to another level.
A passion for innovation has never ceased to find its expression over the 202 year history of Peugeot, one of the oldest marques in the motor industry. Furthermore, it is the only one to offer a comprehensive range of personal means of transport: bicycles, scooters, cars and light utility vehicles.
The Onyx Concept Bike and Onyx Concept Scooter are also expressed with this vision of the future and will preview on Peugeot’s stand at the Paris Motor Show, later this month.
"Onyx has the strength of a supercar, with extremely aerodynamic lines. It is made unique by its sculpted, chiselled style and by the innovative materials and structure." Gilles Vidal, Peugeot Style Director.
The sharp bodywork calls out with the striking contrast of its materials and colours. Fashioned by hand by a master craftsman, the wings and doors are pure copper sheet. A polished mirror, this metal does not need to resort to tricks to protect itself. So, its appearance will change over time, gaining a patina. The Onyx is alive! As for the other panels of the bodywork, these are carbon fibre, painted matt black.
Slicing through the air with finesse, the front face unites the vertical grille and full LED lamps, tapered, their surface area reduced to a minimum. The flow then separates; some penetrates into the heart of the vehicle, flowing inside the bodywork and the structure to supply the engine with air.
The remainder of the flow spreads, skimming along the sides and the ‘double-bubble’ roof. Finishing off the Onyx with beauty, the rear lamps adopt a light signature with three claws now characteristic of Peugeot. They also support small spoilers which direct the upper and side flows. These reunite as far as possible from the bodywork to reduce drag. With a Cd of 0.30, the aerodynamic impact of the Onyx is inversely proportional to its visual impact.
A link between experience and the future, the Onyx incorporates the present by paying tribute to the RCZ through its ‘double-bubble’ roof and aluminium arches.
With complete transparency, revealing the carbon fibre structure and the passenger compartment, the windows and roof are made of PMMA (PolyMethyl MethAcrylate). Enclosing the cocoon, they guarantee the occupants’ optimum protection due to its ultra-resistant structure.
"The silhouette of the Onyx is sculpted softly, sensuously, but it is also alive and technological. From the first sketches I wanted to create a showcase for technological excellence and craftsmanship by combining elements demonstrating high aerodynamic performance, Black Diamond lamps and copper bodywork panels fashioned by hand." Sandeep Bhambra, Onyx Exterior Stylist