Currently reading: Peugeot's new Le Mans racer
908 diesel switches from V12 to V8 power for fresh assault on enduro classic

Peugeot has unveiled its contender for this year's Le Mans 24 Hours: the latest generation of 908.

The new model, which was known as the 90X during its development, switches from a V12 turbodiesel powerplant to a V8 layout. Peugeot says the new motor has a 90-degree angle and that it produces 550PS (542bhp).

See the official pics of Peugeot's latest 908

The new car is clearly derived from the 908, which triumphed at Le Mans in 2009 but failed to repeat that success at the classic enduro last year. To fit in with sportscar racing's new regulations, it has a closed cockpit and a prominent 'fin' along the centre of the rear bodywork.

Bruno Famin, the technical director at Peugeot Sport, said, "We have taken advantage of our experience with the V12, and opted for a V8 whose characteristics are very similar to that of the old engine. The engine is 3.7 litres in size and it fired up for the first time on 25 January."

Peugeot has also confirmed its driver line-ups for the Le Mans race, despite the fact that it doesn't take place until June. Among the drivers in the three cars will be ex-F1 men Alex Wurz, Stephane Sarrazin and Sebastien Bourdais, and Briton Anthony Davidson.

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