Peugeot's 1940 10 CV Prototype

France entered World War 2 in September 1939, but some automobile makers continued development of future models despite the diversion of resources and manpower to the war effort.  The drôle de guerre along the northeastern French frontier lasted until 10 May 1940 when Germany launched its offensive.  By 22 June, France had surrendered.

During at least part of 1940 Peugeot was working on revisions to its line and had a 10 CV (tax horsepower rating) model in prototype stage.  Images of the car and background information are from Automobilia hors-série No. 26, Toutes les voitures françaises 1940-46, les années sans salon by René Bellu.

Gallery

1939 Peugeot 402
An example prewar Fuseau Sochaux styling that was becoming dated at the end of the 1930s.

1940 Peugeot 10 CV prototype - front 3/4 view
This design is less streamlined than the car shown in the previous photo.  The passenger compartment has been squared up and the windshield is flat rather than V'd.  The front end design is suggestive of 1939 Hudsons.

1940 Peugeot 10 CV prototype - side
The enlarged glass area is evident here.

1940 Peugeot 10 CV prototype - rear 3/4 view
The trunk has a tacked-on appearance.  All things considered, this design would have been out of fashion had it entered production in 1942 or 1943.

1949 (ca.) Peugeot 203
Here is what Peugeot actually used as a post-war design.  The flat windshield is a hold-over from the prototype, but side windows are smaller.  The front with its lengthened fenders seems inspired by 1942 model year American styling.