- Citroën C-Cactus
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Citroën C-Cactus 
Manufacturer Citroën Production debuted at the Frankfurt Auto Show 2007 Class Small family car Body style 'ecological hatchback' Platform Citroën C4 platform Engine 70 bhp (52 kW) HDi diesel Wheelbase 2,800 mm Length 4,200 mm Width 1,800 mm Height 1,490 mm Curb weight 1,306 kg The Citroën C-Cactus is a concept car that debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. The car is named for its low consumption of resources, using a more fuel-economic diesel engine unlike the Toyota Prius and contemporaries, much like the cactus plant. The C-Cactus is an "ecological" car with a Hybrid HDi drivetrain capable of 69 mpg (3.4 l/100 km) on the combined cycle and emissions of 78g/km of CO2.[1]
Contents
Design
Designed to embody simplicity, the C-Cactus has an 'appealing, modern and upbeat' design, while through the combination of rounded and slightly angular forms, the car also has a muscular, energetic touch. New Citroen consists of 200 parts. Almost all the materials it is made from are recyclable. Citroen introduced a number of new design features to the C-Cactus. The dashboard has been removed in favour of grouping key controls on the central console and steering wheel hub, while a modular stowage system, allowing the sliding of the rear bench to reveal further under-floor stowage, increases bootspace from 500 to 1100 litres.
The car has sharp styling and attractive features. Its curves give it a fun look and strong appeal, while the angles and rounded lines of the bodywork underline its dynamic character. It is 4.2 metres long and 1.8 metres wide with a wide range of equipment including air conditioning with automatic temperature control, a high-quality audio system, a panoramic glass sunroof, cruise control and a speed limiter. Moreover, the interior of the car has been created by removing material. This idea of decorating "in a vacuum" is reflected in the patterns present on the door panels and seat frames. The patterns cut-out in the door panels show the apple green felt inserted between panel and metal. The main role of this part is to soundproof the vehicle, but its colour and cut-outs make it an integral part of the décor. The same flower, plant and butterfly patterns – symbolising the environment, purity and well-being – are also found on several other cabin features.
Technical specifications
Capable of running almost silently on battery power at low speed, the C-Cactus also has a 30 bhp (22 kW) 'electric motor', which helps the engine at higher speeds for overtaking. As well as featuring a diesel particulate filter, the ultra-clean C-Cactus emits only 78g/km of CO2 – meaning that if it went into production, it would be exempt from UK vehicle excise duty and plans for an extended congestion charge.[2] While driving in city it can be named ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle). Michelin has developed special low-profile tires for the Citroen C-Cactus Concept.
The fixed-hub steering wheel includes a wide variety of functions. In addition to the usual controls, it also includes the speedometer, which is of an unusual design. The figures, placed in relief around the hub, rotate according to speed and are positioned with respect to a fixed point.
A second touch screen on the central console includes a navigation system to guide the driver on the road. It also serves as an on-board computer. This equipment endows C-Cactus with high-tech advanced features while also keeping costs down, since functions are grouped together.
The central console features two powerful high-quality active loudspeakers, with a layout that limits both wiring and installation costs.
See also
References
External links
Categories:- Hybrid electric cars
- Citroën vehicles
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