PEUGEOT is supporting Under The Pole in the development of its Capsule II project, a new underwater observation habitat planned for 2026. This collaboration aims to improve ergonomics, material durability, and onboard communication systems, while ensuring the comfort and safety of scientists.
The Under The Pole programme was founded by Ghislain Bardout and Emmanuelle Périé-Bardout in 2008, in Concarneau (France). It shares with PEUGEOT the ambition to use science and technology to protect the environment, particularly the oceans. This programme also works to raise awareness among the general public about the importance of this cause.
Capsule II represents the next generation of underwater observation structures that Under The Pole is developing for 2026 to continue exploring and protecting the oceans.
The current Under The Pole capsule, designed as a temporary underwater habitat, allows scientists to remain submerged for extended periods, up to three days. Equipped with portholes offering a panoramic view underwater, it facilitates the observation of marine species and the study of surrounding ecosystems and their ecological functions.
Although the ergonomics of the current habitat aim to maximize available space while providing an efficient working environment, feedback from divers and scientists who have worked onboard reveals usage limitations that the Capsule II project intends to improve.
As part of Capsule II, Under The Pole entrusts PEUGEOT and the Stellantis Design Studio with the optimization of the interior of the future structure and the improvement of the living and working experience on board.
Relying on the expertise of the brand’s designers in the i-Cockpit, Under The Pole and PEUGEOT will work hand in hand with the following objectives:
- Optimization of exterior spaces and equipment for ease of use
- A new ergonomic design of the interior, including redesigned living spaces tailored to the uses and needs of various exploration missions, for enhanced performance through amplified onboard well-being
- Proposals for new materials that are more welcoming and more durable
- A new design and integration of technical blocks related to communication systems (connectivity, screens)
- Between May 2025 and the summer of 2026, the target period for the launch of Capsule II, PEUGEOT and Under The Pole will work closely together to assess and validate the points to be improved in the onboard experience, before seeking and selecting the optimal interior design solution. This will be followed by the development of the chosen design concept (3D and physical model) as well as the engineering and production phases of Capsule II, incorporating the designs proposed by PEUGEOT and the Stellantis Design Studio and validated by the partners.
Since the beginning of their collaboration, PEUGEOT and Under The Pole have shared a common vision of education, innovation, and sustainability. By combining PEUGEOT’s expertise in design and technology (PEUGEOT i-Cockpit) with Under The Pole’s experience in underwater exploration, this new project marks a significant step in their partnership to continue underwater exploration while ensuring the comfort and safety of scientists.