Peugeot is ready to challenge a century of automotive habit by introducing a radically different steering control. The French maker’s new Polygon Concept swaps the familiar circular wheel for a compact, aerospace-inspired device that promises tighter handling and a cleaner cabin layout.
What Peugeot is replacing and why it matters for drivers
Traditional round steering wheels have dominated car cabins since the early days of motoring. Peugeot’s design team believes the next wave of vehicle interfaces should be smaller, more integrated, and better suited to modern electronics.
The concept replaces the old mechanical linkages with electronic steering. This change allows automakers to rethink the cockpit and move components away from bulky columns. For drivers, that opens possibilities from improved visibility to reduced vibration.
Meet the Hypersquare: a new kind of steering control
The device, branded the Hypersquare, looks more like a gamepad than a conventional wheel. It is part of the updated Peugeot i-Cockpit and uses Steer-by-Wire technology to translate the driver’s inputs into digital signals.
- Shape and feel: Squared-off geometry with ergonomic grips.
- Control layout: Multiple rings and buttons for quick access.
- Feedback: Haptic cues delivered via the unit rather than a column.
How the Hypersquare actually operates
Instead of a direct mechanical shaft to the front wheels, sensors and actuators interpret hand movements. Peugeot engineers tuned the system for a limited but precise rotation.
- Range of movement: About 170° of rotation each way, just under a full turn.
- Button clusters: Right-side controls handle audio and voice commands.
- Driver assistance controls: Left-side rings govern cruise and safety aids.
This setup reduces the need for large hand sweeps. At low speeds, drivers can make tight turns with minimal wrist motion.
Practical advantages and potential concerns
Peugeot highlights several driver-focused benefits of removing the steering column and shrinking the wheel. Without a column, road harshness transmitted to the wheel is diminished. Cabin ergonomics gain flexibility. The design also invites a more connected cockpit, with controls integrated into the steering unit.
Conversely, some drivers may miss the familiar feel of a full wheel. Peugeot has acknowledged this and says customers can opt for a conventional steering column if they prefer.
Who adapts fastest?
Peugeot notes gamers and users familiar with modern controllers may find the Hypersquare intuitive. The company says such drivers often reach comfort with the new system more quickly than those who rely solely on traditional wheels.
Rollout plans and timeline for production cars
Peugeot plans to bring Hypersquare-equipped models to market in the coming years. The brand aims to include the system in a road car by 2027. Initial deployment will likely target models where a compact steering unit enhances interior space and digital integration.
Integration with Peugeot’s electric lineup
The Hypersquare is being developed alongside Peugeot’s growing range of electric vehicles. The company has extended its E-series and related models to cover multiple segments.
- E-208
- E-2008
- E-308
- E-3008
- 3-408
- 3-5008
- Rifter
- Traveller
These EVs form the backbone of Peugeot’s strategy to modernize interiors and push connected features.
Recent sales performance and market context
Peugeot reports strong momentum in the UK market this year. The brand has sold more than 76,000 cars in the market, securing roughly 4.42% market share.
- Current UK sales: 76,000+ units
- Year-on-year growth: around 30% from 58,303 units last year
That sales boost gives Peugeot room to experiment with bold cabin concepts while maintaining broad customer reach.
Driver experience: what to expect behind the Hypersquare
Early demonstrations emphasize nimble steering at low speeds and quick access to in-car systems. Because the Hypersquare rotates less than a traditional wheel, Peugeot tuned steering ratios so inputs remain natural and precise.
- Quicker low-speed manoeuvres without hand repositioning.
- Fewer vibrations transferred to the driver’s hands.
- Integrated controls reduce the need to reach across the dash.
Peugeot also continues development to ensure safety, redundancy, and driver acceptance before full-market release.
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