Peugeot is a brand of cars produced by the French company of the same name, which is part of PSA Peugeot Citroën. The headquarters is located in Paris.
The family business, which predates Peugeot as we know it today, started in the 18th century. Then Jean-Pierre Peugeot was employed in light industry. In 1810, his two sons converted an inherited grain mill into a steel mill and began to produce watch springs, saw blades, coffee, salt and pepper mills, corset hooks, crinoline rings, and more. In November 1858, Emile Peugeot received a patent for the image of a lion as a trademark of the company. In 1882, Armand Peugeot launched the production of bicycles, which were popular with buyers: until 1897, the company produced more than 16,000 copies.
In 1889, the company entered a new era of its development - the first Peugeot car was released. It was developed by Armand Peugeot together with Leon Serpollet, who was well versed in steam engines. The three-wheeled car was named Serpollet-Peugeot. He made his debut at the World's Fair in Paris in 1889. Having made four copies of the model, Armand Peugeot understands that steam engines have no future. Collaboration with Gottlieb Daimler creates the first four-wheeled Peugeot with a 563 cc internal combustion engine. see Model Type 2 introduced in 1890. Its maximum speed was 20 km / h.
Peugeot Type 2 (1890)
The car brought numerous orders to the company. In 1892, 29 units were manufactured, in 1894 - 40, and in 1899 - 300. In 1895, Peugeot, the first automobile manufacturer, to use rubber tires.
In 1896, Armand Peugeot created the Peugeot Automobile Society in Odincourt. In the same year, the first car theft in history was registered: cars of the brand disappeared from the garage of Baron Julien. At the end of the 19th century, the automaker gained financial and technical independence, abandoning the investments of relatives and the use of Daimler engines. The first motor of our own design with a capacity of 8 hp. was installed on the Type 15. It was the most popular car of the brand at the turn of the century. The 1899 Peugeot catalog includes 15 models with seating for 2-12 passengers and weighing from 720 to 1250 kg.
Peugeot cars were among the first to appear on the streets of Russian cities. So, on March 4, 1896, one copy was acquired by Mikhail Shipov from Nizhny Novgorod. It was a five-seater car with a 3.75-liter engine. Prior to that, Peugeot was known to Russian buyers for their small metal products, as well as bicycles and motorcycles.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Armand Peugeot set the task of developing the most simple and reliable "mass" car for city driving. To implement this plan, he hired the legendary engineer and designer Ettore Bugatti, with whom he created the Type 69, nicknamed Bebe Peugeot. The new model will debut at the Paris Motor Show in 1904. The Bebe was only 270 cm long and weighs 350 kg. Single-cylinder 6 hp engine accelerated the car to 40 km / h. It received a cardan transmission instead of a chain drive, rack and pinion steering and a shock absorber, which, together with an affordable price, made it incredibly popular.
Peugeot Type 69 Bebe (1905)
Peugeot cars continue to perform successfully in sports competitions. Twice they have won races for the Grand Prix of the Automobile Club of France. In 1913, racer Jules Gu took first place in a race in Indianapolis in a car equipped with a 7.4-liter engine. In 1916 and 1919, Peugeot models with 4.9-liter engines also triumphed on this challenging American track.
During the First World War, the company produced aircraft engines, ammunition and weapons. After its completion, the demand was mainly for inexpensive cars, the production of which was decided by the management of the brand.
In 1919, the economical subcompact Quadrilette appeared, based on the Bebe. It was designed for two passengers and was equipped with a 4-horsepower engine paired with a three-speed gearbox. The maximum speed of the car was 60 km / h. This car has held the title of the most economical two-seater in the world for several years.
Peugeot Quadrilette (1921-1924)
The business expanded during the 1920s. Gradually, the company is getting rid of the bicycle production, focusing on cars. In 1920, the Type 156 appeared with a valveless engine, which set several speed records. Since 1923, all Peugeot models have been fitted with four-wheel brakes. Annual production volumes exceed 10,000 units.
In 1929, the brand introduces the cheapest model on the French market - 201, which received an independent front suspension. This car gave rise to the tradition of naming models with three-digit numbers with a zero in the middle. Soon the Great Depression begins, which leads to a drop in sales. However, the presence of reliable, inexpensive cars in the lineup allows the company to survive.
In 1933, the brand is working on the creation of a new in terms of appearance, a number of cars with striking and impressive designs. In 1934, Peugeot launched the 402 BL Éclipse Decapotable, the first convertible with a retractable hardtop. The brightest representatives of the new family were three models - 202, 302 and 402, which became a landmark.
The Peugeot 402 was produced from 1935 to 1941, despite the Nazi occupation of France. The car received a spectacular stylish appearance with headlights hidden under the radiator grill. It was equipped with an automatic transmission and could be equipped with diesel engines.
Peugeot 402 (1935-1942)
During World War II, Peugeot was controlled by the Volkswagen concern. At this time, a three-wheeled VLV model with an electric motor and four batteries comes out. It was the world's first mass-produced electric car. During the retreat, the Germans took some of the company's equipment with them. In addition, the French carmaker suffered from bombing raids. However, 202 rolled off the assembly line already in 1946. By the end of the year, 14,000 units of the model were produced.
In 1949, the 203 made its debut and established itself in the market as a reliable family car. The 403 model was also a great success, on the design of which the famous studio Pininfarina worked. She received a 1.5-liter engine with 65 hp. In total, about 403 million copies were sold.
Peugeot 204 became the first front-wheel drive car in the brand's model line. It was offered with a large number of body options and a diesel engine as an alternative to the gasoline engine. The 404 was also designed by Pininfarina. Its open-top version was considered one of the most beautiful cars of the time.
Peugeot 404 (1960-1975)
In 1972, the world's shortest sloping sedan, and therefore similar to a hatchback, was introduced - the model 104. It was an economical, obedient and comfortable car, which became the world's smallest four-door car.
In 1974, an epoch-making event in the life of the French car industry took place: Peugeot and Citroen were merged into the PSA group.
In 1976, the French automaker was the first in Europe to offer a turbodiesel engine, which was installed on the 604. In 1983, Peugeot began developing the 205, which later became very popular and, according to many, saved the car company from financial problems caused by mergers and acquisitions recent years. CAR Magazine named it “Car of the Decade” in 1990.
The model entered the market in 1983. Later, a version of the 205 GTi with 1.6 and 1.9 liter engines appeared, which became a bestseller all over the world. It was equipped with a sports suspension, a reliable steering system. The low weight made it agile and predictable. In 1998, the Peugeot 206 made its debut at the Paris Salon, which became the successor to the 205 and in many ways repeated its success.
Peugeot 205 (1983-1998)
On April 6, 1992, a Peugeot representative office was opened in Moscow, which worked with all the former republics of the USSR.
In 1995, another successful model entered the market - the 406, developed in collaboration with Citroen and Pininfarina. In addition to its graceful appearance, it was equipped with highly efficient diesel engines, which played a role in the popularity of the car.
In the spring of 1997, the brand begins to use water-borne paint technology to reduce environmental pollution. In the same year, "the most beautiful French car" was released - the 406 coupe, designed by the Pininfarina studio.
Peugeot 406 Coupe (1997-2003)
In 2003, the brand is already one of the ten largest foreign auto companies that sell their products in Russia. During the year, 8 782 cars were sold. Successful sales force the Peugeot management to think about building their own plant on the territory of our country. In 2008, preparatory work began on organizing the assembly of brand cars in Russia. In the same year, the company agreed with its partner Mitsubishi Motors on cooperation in the construction of an automobile plant. On June 17, the first stone was laid in the foundation of the plant being erected near Kaluga in the Rosva industrial park.
The PSMA Rus plant began operations in April 2010. Here, the SKD method starts the production of the 308 model, which is adapted for operation in Russian conditions. This car remains one of the best-selling cars in Russia. In 2009, the magazine "Za Rulem" named it "The Best Car of 2009" in the compact class. In 2010, the share of the model in Peugeot sales in Russia was 50%. Since July 2012, Peugeot has been assembling the 408 at the factory through a full cycle.
PSA - Peugeot Citroen - headquartered in Paris, France.
The history of Peugeot as an automobile company goes back to the distant 19th century.
"Brothers and Sons of Peugeot" - a family company engaged in the middle of the nineteenth century in the production of hardware, parts for horse carriages, bicycles. Armand Peugeot came up with the idea of the automotive industry after meeting the notorious Gottlieb Daimler.
1889 - the first Peugeot car with a steam engine was released.
In 1891 - the first Peugeot with a Daimler gasoline engine.
1895 - 72 Peugeot cars were produced and sold.
1896 - Foundation of the Peugeot Automobile Society.
1899 car production grows, and the Peugeot company sells more than 300 copies.
At the beginning of the 20th century, an outstanding designer and engineer E. Bugatti worked at Peugeot, and the cheap Bebe Peugeot ("Baby Peugeot") was launched.
Bebe Peugeot The Peugeot company is the first in Europe to start the assembly line of cars.
In 1915, after the death of Armand Peugeot, other family members continue his work. During the First World, the history of the Peugeot company continues with the production of almost all types of weapons, the company becomes the main supplier for the French army. Bellanger and De Dion-Bouton join the firm's business. The company focuses on making low-cost vehicles for middle-income buyers.
Peugeot 201 1929 the company produces the cheapest car for the French market - Peugeot 201. The main models of the 30s of the XX century were: Peugeot 202, Peugeot 302 and Peugeot 402.
During World War II, the Peugeot company came under the control of the German concern Volkswagen.
At the end of the war, the history of Peugeot as a car manufacturer continues. Production begins in 1946 and the company produces pre-war models.
Peugeot 203 1948 - the premiere of the first post-war model Peugeot 203.
1958 - Peugeot cars are sold in the USA.
The European car market continued to grow year after year, with Peugeot releasing new product after new product. The "beauty" Peugeot 504 Coupe has appeared. High competition led the French to the need for joint development of new engines, components and assemblies - cooperation with Renault and Volvo has begun.
Peugeot 504 Coupe In 1974, the Peugeot company bought 30% of the shares of the French Citroen, and a year later in 1975 completely absorbed the company. As a result, the PSA Peugeot Citroen concern is created.
In the early 1980s, PSA was facing a difficult time, sales were sluggish, and profits were falling.
1983 - the appearance of the Peugeot 205 - the car saved the auto giant from collapse, its successful sales allowed PSA to stay afloat and reorganize.
Peugeot 205 1984 - Opening of a joint venture in China (Dongfeng Peugeot-Citroën Automobile).
1991 - Peugeot leaves the North American market.
In the early 90s, the history of the Peugeot company continues with the release of a wide range of passenger cars: Peugeot 106, Peugeot 205, Peugeot 309, Peugeot 405, Peugeot 605, Peugeot 806.
Peugeot 405 The French concern Peugeot entered the 21st century with a confident step. The company cooperates in terms of technical development with Fiat, Ford, Renault, Toyota, BMW, Mitsubishi, GM. The production of cars of the French concern PSA is located in France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Turkey, Iran, Egypt, China, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and a number of other countries. In Russia, together with Mitsubishi PSA, Peugeot Citroen produces cars at a car plant in Kaluga.
Peugeot 307 Peugeot cars won the European Car of the Year competition three times:
1969 - Peugeot 504
1988 - Peugeot 405 model
2002 - Peugeot 307 model
Peugeot's sporting success is no less significant for the company. Peugeot's sports history: participation in the WRC, 24 hours at Le Mans and of course the Paris-Dakar rally, Peugeot car reviews note that the company's cars have been winners for four years in a row, from 1987 to 1990.
Peugeot - winner of the Paris Dakar Rally 
Peugeot RCZ Today, Peugeot cars of the following models are sold in car dealerships in Russia: Peugeot 107, Peugeot 208, Peugeot 308,, Peugeot 3008, Peugeot 4007, Peugeot 4008, Peugeot 508, Peugeot 5008, Peugeot RCZ, Peugeot Partner Tepee, Peugeot Bipper Teppee.
Cars of the French corporation Peugeot are often the smart choice among the offers of the current car industry. Low cost, relatively modern technologies and good looks make the cars of this concern popular all over the world. For a long time the corporation belongs to the joint French concern Peugeot-Citroen, and also works closely with the Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi. In the last ten years, the collaboration of the French with the Ford company has also become noticeable.
The Peugeot-Citroen concern is one of the most widespread enterprises in the world. Until the 1990s, there was only one country of manufacture of Peugeot - France. Today, the corporation's factories operate on four continents, their own assembly is present in each major country, which helps customers to significantly save on the purchase of French vehicles.
Geography of distribution of factories of the Peugeot company
Spraying factories around the world gives Peugeot car buyers one big plus - cost savings due to the absence of higher taxes. If cars from France were transported to Brazil in assembled form, Peugeot would cost incredible money in Latin America. The only two continents that do not have Peugeot facilities are North America and Australia.
South America, China, Russia, some African countries, Spain and Portugal, France and Italy, as well as Turkey - in all these countries, the production of the French concern is present. The company often partners with other manufacturers to create a plant. For example, production in Russia was created jointly with Mitsubishi. The benefits of such widespread adoption for the company are as follows:
- the possibility of reducing the tax burden on the firm's budget;
- national assembly is important for many countries that are increasing patriotism and a good attitude towards domestic production;
- assembly in most countries is much cheaper than in France;
- the build quality of machines is controlled by automatic technologies;
- a wide network of enterprises opens up many opportunities for international cooperation.
The presence of factories in Italy and Spain allows the company to fruitfully cooperate with Fiat and Seat. Cooperation with other manufacturers often becomes the basis for the growth of the corporation and the acquisition of quality positions in the market. For example, mutually beneficial cooperation with Mitsubishi is the basis for the appearance in the modern model line of the company of the large crossover Peugeot 4008.
There are other examples of interesting cooperation, which is not known to the common man in the street. Today in the model line of the French corporation there is only a part of really authentic cars, a large number of models are joint developments.
Problems and prospects for the development of the Peugeot company
The exchange of experience and technologies becomes the basis for the development of all European and other world car manufacturers. Nevertheless, the Peugeot-Citroen corporation is going through hard times in 2014-2015. The company has many problems that do not allow it to develop further to the full.
Among the most serious tasks and problems that have arisen in recent years, the following aspects of the corporation's work can be distinguished:
- the staff in recent years has decreased to 200,000 people (8,000 have been cut);
- new developments of the French concern only the appearance of cars - in technical terms, cars have remained in the last decade;
- a huge amount of loans for the construction of new plants plunged the company into a pool of debts;
- financial obligations to partners led to a serious crisis within the company;
- demand for French cars remains high only in France;
- the corporation abandoned some of its models in Africa, which were generating stable profits, which exacerbated the financial decline.
Nevertheless, the management of the corporation is taking a lot of positive steps to save the corporation. For example, today Peugeot cooperates with six global car manufacturing corporations. In cooperation with Toyota, the French produce Class A cars, and several prototypes of excellent low-emission engines have been jointly developed with BMW. Mechanical and automatic transmissions have been co-produced with Renault from 1966 to the present day.
Such cooperation enables the company to stay afloat and get more opportunities for distributing its cars. Nevertheless, in many countries, the demand for Peugeot cars has been falling in recent years. The corporation is forced to raise the cost of cars, because the competition becomes fiercer.
Assembly of Peugeot today is almost completely robotized, but this is only the first step to success in the market.
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Summarize
Despite the difficult financial situation, the company participates in virtually every major world auto show, presenting prototypes of future cars. Judging by the conceptual developments, the corporation has a lot of plans. Today, work is underway on the development of SUVs and large crossovers, family cars are being designed and prototypes of Class A cars for Europe are being created.
If the company has enough funds to completely renew the technical arsenal of its current technology, Peugeot has every chance of capturing significant market share and gaining more loyal customers. Today, Peugeot remains a fallback option for many buyers.
If you drive a Peugeot, leave your feedback on a specific model of the company below in the comments.
Rumors about the appearance of the Peugeot 308 sedan have been around for a long time, because the 408 model is being successfully sold in China - the same “three hundred and eighth sedan”, only with a base stretched by 10 cm and an original appearance. And to spread success to other export markets is a completely natural desire, especially since Russians love sedans no less than Chinese.
The European range of Peugeot is almost twice as wide as the Russian one. And there are also export markets in different parts of the planet, where unseen or long-forgotten car modifications are sold ...
The legendary and super popular all over the world runabout continued its life in a changed appearance. Having received the exterior and interior in the style of the Peugeot 207, the compact urban hatchback remained faithful to the design of the 1998 model and is still sold in three- and five-door bodies, even in Western Europe. A choice of two petrol engines 1.1 (60 HP) and 1.4 (75 HP) and one diesel 1.4 (70 HP), all with only a manual gearbox. Base price in France: about 483,000 rubles.
In our country, the Peugeot 206 hatchback was also popular due to its low price, reliability, good driving characteristics and inexpensive maintenance. But the reliability of the Iranian-assembled 206 sedan, which appeared in Russia in 2007, unfortunately, was very lame. Unable to agree with Iranian manufacturers to improve quality, Peugeot's management stopped delivering this model, including to the Russian market.
In Russia, the appearance of the Peugeot 206+ did not take place for one single reason - the price of this car would not be inferior to the more modern Peugeot 207.
A compact but very stylish universal car based on the 207th model was expected in Russia. After all, we sold 206 SW, albeit in very limited quantities. A stretched base, an increased trunk and a larger headroom for the rear passengers made the compact city hatchback a practical and nimble car. And the perfectly tuned chassis could provide ample driving pleasure for the 207 SW with any of the five engines on offer. In Europe, there is even a pseudo-off-road version called Outdoor, characterized by increased ground clearance and a plastic body kit along the body contour.
But the miracle did not happen all for the same financial reasons. A base price in the region of 590,000 rubles in Russia would have invaded the "price area" of the Peugeot 308.
Compact "heel", one class step below the Peugeot Partner Tepee. Moreover, the design of the car is sustained, rather, in the style of the Peugeot Boxer, which is emphasized by the forward bumper and vertical door handles.
But in practicality, the compact "heel" can compete on an equal footing with the older "Partner", yielding to him only in volumes. The car interior is emphatically practical, but cozy and quite comfortable. Under the hood is a good old gasoline "eight-valve" 1.4 (75 hp) or the same power 1.3-liter turbodiesel. The gearbox is mechanical only. Base price in France: about 545,000 rubles.
In Russia, this car could well be sold, only in case of retirement, produced since 1997, the classic Peugeot Partner, which is now assembled in Turkey and sold in Russia under the name Partner Origin.
Mid-size passenger minibus between the Peugeot 807 and the passenger version of the Peugeot Boxer. Although the car has its roots in commercial vehicles, the Expert is still significantly more comfortable than the Peugeot Boxer. In Russia, it would be a good competitor to such cars as Volkswagen Multivan, Hyundai H-1 and Toyota Hiace. In the European market, Expert Tepee exists in a short and long body and is equipped only with 90, 120 and 163 horsepower diesel engines. The price of the basic version in France: about 1,185,000 rubles.
Given the high cost and low demand for this class of cars, the French did not risk it and excluded Peugeot Expert from the lists of the Russian model range.
China is the main export market for Peugeot vehicles. And in the Asian lineup you can find very curious cars of this brand.
The Peugeot 307, which is well known to Russian residents and has given way to the next generation model, continues to live and flourish in China. Having received a body kit made of unpainted plastic and roof rails, the French golf-class hatchback began to resemble a small crossover, like the Suzuki SX4.
True, the filling of the 307 Cross, in comparison with the ancestor, has not changed: the 110-horsepower 1.6 petrol engine drives only the front wheels.
This miracle, which appeared thanks to the insane love of the Chinese for sedans, does not frighten only the inhabitants of the Middle Kingdom with its appearance. Experiments to transform a hatchback into a sedan have never been pampered with harmonious design. And the 307 Sedan is a clear confirmation of this.
Although, two-thirds of the body repeats the design of the hatchback, the rear of the car is original, and, to be honest, it is frankly scary. But the luggage compartment volume exceeds 500 liters. The car is equipped with two petrol engines: 1.6 (110 HP) and 2.0 (143 HP), each of which can be equipped with both a 5-speed manual and a 4-band automatic.
But the popularity of this particular model contributed to the appearance of the 308 sedan, in the creation of which the French took into account all the mistakes, including the design ones. So the 308 sedan, which is expected in Russia in the summer of 2012, looks pretty decent.
For especially devoted, but not rich fans of Peugeot, even a three-wheeled rickshaw with a motorcycle motor is going to China. Of course, this vehicle has nothing to do with the PSA Peugeot Citroen concern, but it causes a sincere smile.
Iran is a treasure trove of modernized automobile classics once produced in France under the Peugeot logo. It was from here that the Peugeot 206 Sedan came to us, which never gained popularity in the Russian open spaces. Iranian cars with a lion on the hood have a mediocre relationship directly to Peugeot. All cars are produced exclusively under license by Iran Khodro, which independently makes design changes and monitors the quality of its products.
Runna
A variation on the theme of the same 206 sedan, produced under the IKCO brand. The original front and rear parts of the body could not hide the sidewalls of an ordinary Peugeot 206. But nothing remained of the interior of the progenitor.
The Runna motor range is interesting. In addition to the "French" 1.6 engine (110 hp), under the hood you can find a 1.7 engine (114 hp), capable of running, in addition to gasoline, also on natural gas. Both motors are paired with a five-speed manual transmission.
Yes Yes. The best car of 1988 in Europe is still produced in Iran! Moreover, the exterior of the 405th was left intact, with the exception of the updated headlights. Those who miss the car interiors of the mid-80s of the last century - welcome to the salon. The base GLX is a complete replica of the original Peugeot 405, while the more expensive SLX features a repainted brown-beige plastic and a new steering wheel.
Under the hood is an ancient 1.8 (97 hp) engine that meets the EURO-2 economy standards and, by the way, accelerates the sedan to 100 km / h in 10 seconds. The same engine, fueled with weaker natural gas - 83 horsepower.
The Peugeot 405 version with a more environmentally friendly 1.7 (87 hp) engine that meets the EURO-3 standards is sold in Iran under the Peugeot Roa brand.
And at the top of the evolution of the Peugeot 405, there is a restyled version of the Peugeot Pars, which, in addition to the aforementioned engines, is equipped with a relatively modern 1.6 engine (110 hp) and even a four-speed "automatic" AL4.
Bardo
If you think that the Peugeot 405 is the oldest produced car of the French brand, then you are wrong. The same plant produces the Bardo pickup, which is nothing more than the 1980 Peugeot 504 Pick-up.
The workhorse is set in motion by a 1.6 engine with 67 horsepower, capable of being powered by gasoline with an octane rating of 87. A no less ancient four-speed manual transmission is docked to this "dinosaur".
On the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, in the wonderful country of Brazil (where there are many, many wild monkeys), Peugeot cars are also sold, and there is also one interesting model that has no analogues (and clones) in other markets.
This is a pickup truck built on the basis of the restyled version of the Peugeot 206 SW, which in turn is called the Peugeot 207 SW in Brazil. How! There are two versions of this model: the simpler one is called the Hoggar X-line, and with a plastic body kit, an aggressive off-road bumper, roof rails and a good list of equipment - the Haggar Escapade.
Two petrol engines 1.4 (80 HP) and 1.6 (110 HP) are capable, in addition to gasoline, to be powered by ethanol. The cost of the basic version in Brazil: about 624,000 rubles.
As well as special purpose vehicles. Bicycles, motorcycles and engines of this brand are quite in demand. Peugeot's history dates back to the 18th century. Initially, the family business was limited to the production of various steel products.
The beginning of the work of the Peugeot enterprise was distinguished by the release of springs for watches and saw blades. Then the assortment expanded and the brothers began to manufacture more advanced and sophisticated products for that time: coffee grinders, tools, spice mills, irons, sewing machines, umbrellas. By the eighties of the last century, the family business had already grown into a fairly large enterprise operating in the metalworking industry in France. During the same period, the products of this brand are already exported to several countries.
The invention of the bicycle
In 1882, the Peugeot company released the Le Grand-Bi bicycle. This was the first experience of the organization in the production of vehicles. Initially, only the production of spokes for bicycle wheels was established, and then, on the initiative of Armand Peugeot, the grandson of the founder of the company, who is fond of cycling, the serial production of bicycles began. They were chain driven.
The first products were distinguished by wheels of different sizes. The front was 1.86 m, and the rear was 0.4 m. Gradually, the release of such a promising vehicle was gaining momentum. Peugeot quickly became the leading bicycle manufacturer in France. And in our time, the situation does not change.
Le Grand-Bi - the first Peugeot bicycle, released in 1882 The main stages of development
The history of the Peugeot company goes back over 120 years. After the development of the bicycle market, the enterprise began to serially produce mopeds, motorcycles, scooters.
The history of the Peugeot brand in relation to the automotive industry begins with the release of the three-wheeled steam engine Serpolette-Peugeot. But such an experience was recognized as not entirely successful, and after that steam structures were no longer produced.
In 1891, a four-wheeled vehicle was produced. The motor in this car was from Daimler. During the same period, the name of the company was changed to Les fils de Peugeot frères. At the Peugeot enterprise in 1896, its own engine was released, and the company ceased to depend on anyone else.
The most significant and high-profile event in the history of the company was the release of Peugeot Crumbs. This is how the people called the inexpensive one-cylinder Peugeot Bebe car. This car was designed for the poor middle class.
Before the First World War, France was the leader in the production of automobiles. And half of all products were from Peugeot. This means that the products of the brand during this period occupied the 1st place in the world. Before the start of the war, the organization began to introduce the method of conveyor production of cars.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, more and more new car models. In 1923, the number of cars produced already exceeds 10 thousand units. The thirties were marked by the appearance on Peugeot cars of an electric tarpaulin lifter and independent front suspension.
The Second World War destroyed many of the company's production buildings, and it was not until 1949 that the work was started.
Peugeot began buying Citroen shares in 1974. Subsequently, one company was created, Peugeot Societe Anonyme (PSA). However, both brands were retained.
Peugeot also controlled the Maserati brand and took over the European division of Chrysler in 1978.
The modern concern is the largest private enterprise and is on the 2nd place in Europe for the production of cars. During 2012, the production volume of cars exceeded 3 million units, and in total, more than 1.6 million cars were released under the Peugeot brand.
Company `s logo
Like any other automotive company, Peugeot has its own logo. Despite everything, for more than 120 years, the original heraldic French lion will remain unchanged.
The first vehicle, issued in 1882, featured a left-facing lion with a royal crown. This symbolism was not chosen by chance. The province in France, from which the founder of Peugeot was born, has a lion on its coat of arms.
The lion's direction has never changed for 120 years. But the figure itself has undergone many changes. In 1891, the crown disappeared, and the torso and mane increased in size. The lion's color was changed from black and white to gold, which is a symbol of wealth, luxury and success.
For the period 1912-1920. the logo was deprived of the image of a lion. However, after the First World War, the lion reappeared. Its size, appearance and background color have changed many times. The last evolution of the emblem took place in 2000. The beast has become convex, and the name of the Peugeot brand is applied under the figure of a lion. The animal is depicted on a dark or black background. In some exceptional cases, the backing may appear red.
Facts from history
The history of the creation of the Peugeot brand is fraught with many interesting facts. For example, the Peugeot car was equipped with the first in the world. And in 1892, the Algerian Bey ordered to produce for himself a one-off car with a body made of pure cast silver.
In 1941, the designers of Peugeot created a light vehicle for getting around the city. It was a three-wheeled electric bike.
Peugeot cars have appeared in many popular films. For example, the car of the famous Inspector Colombo and the taxi from the series of films from Luc Besson. Among Russian stars, Peugeot Anton Makarsky, Alena Apina and others are preferred.
Peugeot cars have repeatedly won prizes at European competitions. Concern PSA in London's Soho quarter has opened its own museum, which contains more than 150 cars.
Peugeot in sports
The direction for the production of high-speed Peugeot cars is quite successful. In the Paris-Rouen car races in 1894, the Peugeot took second place. Also, many victories were won in Austria, Germany, France.
The nineties are significant in that Peugeot cars won victories in the world championship.
Key brand models
Peugeot designers have presented the world with many cars. Some of them have left a particularly striking mark in history:
- At the very beginning of the 20th century, Peugeot Bebe enjoyed well-deserved popularity. And in 1913, the fastest car of its time, the Peugeot Goux, was introduced to the world. He was able to reach a speed of 187 km / h.
- The thirties and forties brought the world the 302 and 402. They had a classic build and elegant design.
- In 1957, the Peugeot 404 was produced, which is considered a "perpetual" car. It has several modifications. Until 1975, a total of 1.4 million units were produced.
- Peugeot 205, which has small dimensions, has become a kind of legend in the automotive industry and received popular love.
- Launch of the popular compact car - Peugeot 106.
- And in 1996, the Partner model was released. The real car was produced in over 1 million units in just 33 months.
- Throughout the history of Peugeot, it was the Peugeot 206 that became the absolute leader in sales. In total, more than 5 million cars rolled off the assembly line.
- In 2001, the Peugeot 307 was presented to consumers. It was recognized as the best car in the world in 2002.
Peugeot in Russia
In the Russian market, the Peugeot company is deservedly considered the patriarch, because bicycles of this brand were supplied to Russia at the end of the 19th century.
The Peugeot brand is very popular in Russia. Many of the models exported to our country have been specially designed for our bad roads. The Peugeot brand is in the top ten best-selling cars in the Russian Federation.
Summing up, we can say that today the Peugeot company produces cars that are comfortable, reliable and adapted for Russia. Its specialists continue to improve their designs and further. For this they use new production technologies and try to create even more advanced vehicles.
