1935 - 1945
AERODYNAMICS REIGN (Page 1 of 2) | |
In the wings since the Twenties, Aero dynamics goes centrestage with the Sochaux rocket range. |
 | The 402 Eclipse with its folding roof system (1937) |
1935 Introduction of the 402 at the Paris Show in October. It marks a turning-point in the history of the Peugeot brand, which is ahead of all its competitors in introducing an aerodynamic body as standard. This is the famous "Sochaux rocket" range, characterised by fluid lines and a shield-shaped grill to protect the headlights. In addition, a semi-automatic version of the 402 is also shown on the stand, featuring a Cotal electro-mechanical gearbox. 1936 Launch of the 302 that also has the Sochaux rocket shape. Launch of the 500, 350 and 175 cc motorbikes, along with the 100 cc moped. 1938 In February, Peugeot unveils the 202. Annual production reaches 50,000 units i.e. a quarter of the national output. Sochaux has a staff of 1300. In June, victory in the 1500 to 2000 cc class in the Le Mans 24-Hour race for the 402 Darl'Mat.
 | The 402 Darl'Mat |
1939 As Sochaux is too close to the border, production is transferred to Bordeaux-Mérignac, as part of the war mobilisation plans. | 
