The steering wheel has remained largely unchanged for over a century, but that history ends today. Peugeot has unveiled the Polygon concept, a rolling laboratory that fundamentally rethinks how humans interact with machines through steer-by-wire technology. We went behind the controls of this futuristic prototype to see if a rectangular tablet can really replace the wheel.
Driving the future without a physical column
The most shocking aspect of the Polygon is not how it looks, but how it disconnects you from the road. Traditional cars use a metal column to physically turn the wheels, but the Polygon utilizes steer-by-wire technology. This system sends digital signals from your hands to the front axle almost instantly.
Most drivers worry that losing a physical connection means losing road feel.
However, the Polygon proves that digital steering can be incredibly fluid and precise.
We tested the vehicle on a tight indoor obstacle course. The system eliminates the need for hand-over-hand shuffling during sharp turns. You keep your hands fixed at the 9 and 3 positions regardless of how sharp the corner is.
The ratio changes dynamically based on your speed. At low speeds or during parking maneuvers, a slight tilt of the device turns the wheels dramatically. It makes tight urban driving feel effortless and almost video-game-like in its responsiveness.
This technology creates a cleaner cabin environment. When the car is autonomous or parked, the steering mechanism retracts flush into the dashboard to create more space for the driver. This feature transforms the driver’s seat from a cockpit into a lounge.
Why the rectangular Hypersquare changes everything
The centerpiece of the Polygon interior is the Hypersquare. This is not a wheel in any traditional sense. It is a rectangular control device with circular digital portals in each corner that house touch-sensitive controls for climate, volume, and driving modes.
Peugeot designers argue that circular wheels block the view of the instrument cluster. By flattening the top and bottom, the Hypersquare opens up a clear line of sight to the dashboard displays.
Drivers control the vehicle using only their thumbs. It mimics the ergonomics of a handheld gaming console or a smartphone.
- Grip Design: The device features recessed grips at the back for a secure hold.
- Controls: Digital thumb-scrollers replace bulky stalks for indicators and wipers.
- Feedback: Haptic vibrations tell your fingers when you have reached the traction limit.
We found the learning curve to be surprisingly short. Your brain adapts to the smaller inputs within minutes. The days of wrestling with a large hoop of leather and plastic seem archaic after experiencing this minimized interface.
Retro style meets next generation efficiency
The exterior of the Polygon pays homage to the brand’s golden era while utilizing cutting-edge manufacturing. The silhouette features the angular aggression of the legendary 205 hatchback but smoothed out for aerodynamic efficiency.
Lighting plays a huge role in the Polygon’s identity. The front grille features three luminous claws that nod to the blocky vents of 1980s Peugeots. The rear end is dominated by a massive digital panel that communicates with other road users. It can display warnings to pedestrians or signal charging status to other drivers.
Sustainability is woven into the engineering. The massive alloy wheels are wrapped in experimental Goodyear tires made from recycled materials.
Peugeot has also revolutionized how the car is put together. The Polygon showcases a new manufacturing technique that drastically reduces the total part count. Fewer parts mean less weight, lower production costs, and easier recycling at the end of the car’s life.
When this technology hits the road
Concept cars are usually just design dreams, but the Polygon is a serious statement of intent. Peugeot has confirmed that the steer-by-wire system and the Hypersquare are not just for show.
This technology is scheduled to arrive in production vehicles starting in 2026.
The brand plans to introduce this system as an option on its next generation of B-segment cars. This means the replacements for the popular 208 and 2008 will likely feature this radical cockpit.
Three distinct versions of the Polygon vision were teased during the event:
- Urban: The white model we tested, focused on city efficiency.
- Player: A high-performance GTi variant with aggressive styling.
- Explorer: A rugged version with a raised ride height and protective body cladding.
The rollout will be gradual. Peugeot understands that not every driver is ready to give up the mechanical link to the road immediately. However, the benefits in packaging, weight saving, and interior space make the transition inevitable for the electric age.
It is a bold gamble to reinvent the primary way we control our vehicles. Yet, after experiencing the Polygon, the traditional steering wheel feels like a relic of the past. The connection is electric, immediate, and undeniably exciting.
