Peugeot Hypercar struggles with performance restrictions at Le Mans

According to Motorsport.com, the Peugeot Hypercar team is experiencing serious difficulties with Balance of Performance (BoP) restrictions ahead of the Le Mans 24 Hours — car #93 driven by Jean-Eric Vergne only managed to qualify 18th out of 20 Hypercar entries.

Recent technical changes require the 9X8 prototype to add 9kg of weight and reduce power by 13kW compared to the previous round at Spa-Francorchamps — giving Peugeot the worst power-to-weight ratio among all constructors.

“It’s very tough. Years of preparation, hard work from the team and drivers. Being here just to make up the numbers is very difficult to accept,” stated Vergne.

Stoffel Vandoorne tries to stay positive — despite the difficult situation, he feels fortunate to participate in this prestigious race at Circuit de la Sarthe.

Vergne’s future with the team is also in question as his contract expires this season. The two-time Formula E champion hints at possibly seeking other opportunities in WEC if he doesn’t receive guarantees of improved competitiveness from the French manufacturer.