Peugeot

Year of foundation 1896

The history of the Peugeot automobile company is one of the most fascinating and long-standing in the world. Its origins date back well before the invention of the automobile itself, to a family of French industrialists dedicated to the production of various products.

The Origins (1810-1889): From Mills to Bicycles

It all began in 1810, when Jean-Pierre and Jean-Frédéric Peugeot transformed a watermill in Sous-Dung (Doubs, France) into a steel foundry. Initially, the company focused on the production of rolled steel, saws, and carpentry tools, and later, coffee grinders, pepper mills, and skirt frames. The famous rampant lion, a symbol of the resistance and robustness of their products, first appeared in 1858.

At the end of the 19th century, the company expanded into new areas, producing bicycles (the first, the "Grand-Bi," dates back to 1882) and tricycles. It was during this period that Armand Peugeot, a visionary and grandson of Jean-Pierre, began to develop an interest in the automobile.

The Birth of the Automobile (1889-1913): The Era of Pioneers

The real turning point came in 1889, when Armand Peugeot presented the "Type 1" at the Paris Motor Show, a steam-powered tricycle designed with engineer Léon Serpollet. Although the steam engine was the most common at the time, Armand realized that the future lay in the internal combustion engine.

In 1890, thanks to an agreement with engineer Gottlieb Daimler, Peugeot created the "Type 2," its first gasoline-powered automobile. It was a four-wheeled vehicle with a two-cylinder V-engine, marking the beginning of mass production (albeit limited).

The "Type 3" (1891) was the first Peugeot car to be sold and participated in the first long-distance automobile race, the Paris-Brest-Paris. In 1896, Armand Peugeot founded the "Société Anonyme des Automobiles Peugeot," separating automobile production from traditional production. The new company focused on the development and production of motor vehicles, opening new factories in Audincourt and Beaulieu.

The Wars and Growth (1914-1945): Innovation and Resilience

During the First World War, Peugeot converted to the production of armaments, aircraft engines, and military vehicles. Automobile production resumed strongly after the conflict, with the introduction of popular models such as the "Type 177" and the "Quadrilette," a small, affordable car.

In the 1920s, Peugeot introduced assembly-line production and established itself as one of France's leading automobile manufacturers. Innovative models were launched, such as the "201" in 1929, the first car in the world to use three-digit numbering with a central "0" (a system still in use today).

World War II forced the company to once again halt civilian production. Factories were occupied and damaged, but Peugeot quickly recovered after the war, producing the "203," a modern and robust car that symbolized the company's rebirth.

The Golden Age and Expansion (1946-1974): Design and Reliability

The 1950s and 1960s were a period of great success for Peugeot. The "403" (1955), designed by Pininfarina, was the first mass-produced diesel car in France and became a style icon. Other successful models were launched, such as the "404" and the legendary "504," winner of "Car of the Year" in 1969.

During this period, Peugeot also expanded internationally, opening subsidiaries and plants around the world.

The PSA Group (1975-2020): Alliances and Successes

In 1975, Peugeot acquired Citroën, creating the "PSA Group" (Peugeot Société Anonyme). The alliance allowed the two brands to share platforms and technologies while maintaining their distinct identities.

The PSA Group era was characterized by highly successful models. In the 1980s, the "205" (1983) revolutionized the small car segment and achieved enormous commercial and sporting successes (winning the World Rally Championship and the Paris-Dakar Rally). In the 1990s, the "306" and "406" confirmed Peugeot's leadership in the European market.

The new millennium saw the launch of successful models such as the "206," the "307," and the "3008," which established themselves in their respective segments. Peugeot also committed to the development of hybrid and electric technologies, with the launch of vehicles such as the "iOn" and the "508 Hybrid."

The New Era: Stellantis (2021-Present)

In 2021, the PSA Group merged with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), creating "Stellantis," the world's fourth-largest automotive group by sales volume. This merger opened up new opportunities for Peugeot, with the ability to share technologies, platforms, and markets on a global scale.

Today, Peugeot continues to stand out for its bold design, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to sustainable mobility.