Introduction
Over a decade ago, with the launch of the first Peugeot 208, Peugeot revolutionized one of the most critical aspects of vehicles: the driving position. Since then, approximately 10 million i-Cockpit cabins have been produced, equipping the entire Peugeot lineup with the i-Cockpit® system. i-Cockpit has significantly improved the safety and comfort of both drivers and passengers, making it a defining feature of today’s Peugeot cars.
The Beginning of the Story
The journey began in 2010 with the unveiling of the Peugeot SR1 concept car at the Geneva Motor Show. This concept car, a convertible coupe, reflected innovative ideas from the company's designers. It introduced new driving modes that completely altered traditional design and comfort standards.
Cabin Development
At that time, the Peugeot team was focused on enhancing the driver’s seat for improved comfort, maneuverability, and safety. A small group of designers and engineers began working on the idea, leading to a proposal to reduce the size of the steering wheel. Vehicles at that time typically had large steering wheels, and information displayed on screens was often obstructed, distracting the driver.
The optimal position for displaying information is at eye level. These two changes—introducing new screen modes and a smaller steering wheel—led to the creation of an entirely new system, including what would later be known as vertical display screens. A touchscreen was also added to simplify control buttons while continuing to provide connectivity technology. This marked the beginning of touchscreen interfaces in Peugeot vehicles.
Expert Opinions
Jerome Michéron, Product Director at Peugeot, stated: "Committing to this innovative and new concept was a significant risk for our brand, but it was a calculated one. Nonetheless, we had to ensure that our customers appreciated the new concept; hence, we organized track tests with French and German customers, allowing them to drive a car with a conventional steering wheel and dashboard, followed by a prototype equipped with the new steering wheel and raised instrument cluster. The feedback was extraordinary and distinct; younger drivers loved the sporty character of the design, while older drivers appreciated the enhanced driving pleasure, agility, and sophistication. The compact steering wheel was well received by all. We all realized we were offering something unique."
Continuous Development to Meet Customer Needs and Driving Desires
The Peugeot i-Cockpit® has continued to evolve since its inception, with the launch of the second generation models 3008 and 5008 in 2016. Both vehicles are equipped with fully customizable 12.3-inch digital displays, along with additional controls: a central touchscreen that facilitates the management of essential functions. In 2019, the second generation of the 208 model introduced a three-dimensional digital instrument panel.
i-Cockpit took another step forward with the new models 308 (2021) and 408 (2022) by introducing the new i-Connect infotainment system. This new compact steering wheel can detect the presence of the driver’s hands while in use. It includes driver assistance features along with i-toggles touch control buttons that allow the driver to select functions such as air conditioning control, display phone contacts, switch radio stations, or run apps according to their preferences.
Peugeot's i-Cockpit®: An Endless Evolution
Bertrand Rabatel, Director of Cabin Design at Peugeot, stated that the evolution phase of i-Cockpit® is still in its early stages, adding: "The i-Cockpit® cabin must always remain simple, dynamic, and creative; this is one of our goals. Peugeot has always been a pioneer in this field, so we must continue to innovate, create, and renew consistently to maintain our position as a leader. We are confident that the i-Cockpit® cabin has a bright future ahead."
Earlier this year, Peugeot unveiled its future foundation at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, representing a revolution in vehicle steering and control, providing gesture control capabilities for a new generation of drivers accustomed to using tablets and smart devices.
