French cars

Peugeot designers: Henri Thomas and Jean Andreau were the first big name designers at Peugeot. Thomas, inspired by streamlining, was responsible for the flowing lines of the 402, with its rounded front end and elegant radiator grille. Introduced in 1935, the 402 was the first model in the Fuseau Sochaux line, followed by the 302 in 1936 and the 202 in 1938. Andreau designed the celebrated “1940” 402 prototype with an inclined, convex curved windshield, pillar-less side windows, fenders tapering to a point and distinctive high rear fin.

In fact, Renault’s involvement in racing predates the conception of the World Championship in 1950. At the turn of the century the young Louis Renault saw racing as a way of publicising his cars; his most impressive feat being the winning of the first ever French Grand Prix in 1906