2012 Citroen Numero 9 concept

Citroen has releases the Numero 9 Concept ,which will debut at the 2012 Beijing motor show

The Concept primarily previews a new D-Segment executive sedan that will presumably be known as the DS9 when it reaches production form. However, it also previews the styling elements of the another 2 vehicles that are to join the DS line-up which Citroen has confirmed will be a C-segment premium sedan and an SUV.

Citroen describes the Numero 9 as a "new take on the shooting brake body style," combining the proportions of a wagon with the style of a fastback five-door and the dimensions of a large executive car.

The Numero 9 sits on 21-inch wheels, with its glassy roof just 1.27m off the ground. The 4.9m length and wide-set headlight and grille treatment accentuate the car's ground-hugging stance, while the fastback rear profile and aerodynamically shaped pillars contribute to a low drag figure. Even those mammoth wheels are sculpted to scythe through the airstream with minimal fuss.

The plug-in hybrid setup offers a 30 mile EV only range, automatically chooses the power source and driven wheels according to conditions and driver demand, can manage 62mph in 5.4 seconds, the usual sill economy and emission figures (in this case 166mpg and 39g/km) and can even switch the ICE to standby when not needed.

The Numero 9 can also travel on electricity only for up to 50 kilometres, with the battery pack taking 3.5 hours to recharge from a regular powerpoint.





Press Release

• Citroën’s DS line will launch in China during 2012

• Numéro 9 concept to be unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show to mark the DS line launch

• Numéro 9 concept combines radical executive styling with luxury and comfort

• Hybrid drivetrain delivers fuel economy of 166mpg (1.7l/100km) and CO2 emissions of just 39g/km

• Concept signals styling cues of the next three models in the DS line

Marketed in parallel alongside Citroën’s main range, the distinctive DS line explores new automotive territory. Based on more radical choices, it opens new perspectives in premium vehicle design and illustrates the best of Citroën’s expertise in creativity and technology. Just two years after its launch, the DS line - comprising of Citroën DS3, DS4 and DS5 - has already notched up more than 200,000 sales worldwide, with 25,000 in the UK alone.

The DS line will be launched in China this year and, to mark the event, Citroën has designed a new concept car, Numéro 9, which will be unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show. The concept signals the styling cues of the next three DS line models: a C-segment premium sedan, an SUV and a D-segment executive saloon.

A new take on the shooting brake body style, Numéro 9 has elegant, thoroughbred looks enhanced with further radical design elements. Solid, sculpted proportions and subtle lines convey a distinctive and sophisticated character. The sophistication is allied with a high-quality finish for a truly original driving sensation and features that are practical and versatile in everyday use.

The concept is designed with plug-in full-hybrid technology; an ultra-efficient system that boasts remarkable levels of performance - 166mpg fuel economy, 50km range in ZEV mode, 295hp, a ‘boost’ function and 39g/km of CO2.

Designed in Paris, Numéro 9 opens a new chapter in the styling of the DS line.

NUMÉRO 9 IN DETAIL: A FRESH TAKE ON FRENCH-STYLE LUXURY

Following on from Citroën DS3, DS4 and DS5, concept car Numéro 9 takes a fresh look at the DS line with a new take on the prestigious shooting brake design.

Subtly combining the proportions of a coupé with those of an estate, Numéro 9 hints at exceptional driving sensations, with its taut lines, long bonnet and ultra-low stance (1.27m tall) on 21-inch wheels. It also promises unique onboard comfort with its generous proportions (4.93m long and 1.94m wide, with a 3m wheelbase) providing plenty of room for rear occupants. The three glass areas in the roof also create a welcoming, friendly cabin ambience.

Numéro 9 evolves the design cues of the current DS line, introducing the new front-end identity of future models, along with an original light signature. The grille is sculpted in 3 dimensions and flows into the full-LED headlights, which end in daytime-running lights. Condensing the distinctive forms of the DS line, the concept also features a floating roof, underlined by chrome trim with discreet DS markings, and glazed side surfaces flowing into the rear window.

A sophisticated use of body colours and materials includes deep black bodywork with subtle hints of violet. The finish, named ‘Whisper’, is a perfect match for the warmer shade of the ‘Californian’ chrome finish.

The ‘Créative Technologie’ used by Numéro 9 combines comfort, safety and respect for the environment, while also delivering enjoyable driving sensations for all occupants.

Every detail was designed to contribute to Numéro 9’s aerodynamic efficiency (CdA = 0.61) including:

• a rear spoiler, which reinforces the fastback effect

• windscreen pillars that contribute to efficient air flow around the car

• ‘Turbine’ wheels with integrated fins to increase the air flow around the wheel arches, reducing both turbulence and fuel consumption.

With its plug-in full-hybrid technology, concept car Numéro 9 is also a perfect fit with Citroën’s environmental commitments.

The advanced drivetrain combines a conventional petrol or diesel engine (depending on the market) with an electric motor on the rear axle that develops 70hp and torque of 200Nm. The electric motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged in just 3½ hours from a normal domestic socket. The model on display at the Beijing Motor Show is fitted with a 1.6 THP petrol engine developing 225hp (165kW) and 275Nm of torque.

With its plug-in hybrid technology, Numéro 9 respects the environment. It has a range of 50km (around 31miles) in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode and, on roads demanding successive acceleration and deceleration, the hybrid drivetrain limits consumption by using both sources of energy. On the motorway, the combustion engine takes over to deliver real performance.

Numéro 9 features new-generation micro-hybrid technology designed to switch the combustion engine to stand-by whenever it is not required.

When the driver requires speed and torque, a ‘boost’ function combines the power of the combustion engine and electric motor to enable high levels of performance (up to 295hp). Numéro 9 takes just 5.4 seconds to go from 0 to 62mph and 25.3 seconds to travel 1,000m from a standing start.

When grip is lacking, the car switches to four-wheel drive mode with the electric motor driving the rear wheels and the combustion engine powering the front wheels. In particularly difficult driving conditions, such as driving up a sloping, snow-covered road, the driver can manually select 4WD mode. The four-wheel drive system and hydraulic active suspension then deliver increased traction, making full use of the potential of Numéro 9 in complete safety.

Looking beyond on-road performance and environmental benefits, the full-hybrid plug-in technology offers a third advantage: the cabin can be prepared before the car is used. For example, it can be pre-heated to ensure the comfort of all the occupants as soon as they climb onboard.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS

Length: 4.93m
Width: 1.94m
Height: 1.27m
Wheelbase: 3m

WEIGHT

Total laden weight: 1,500kg

PLUG-IN HYBRID DRIVETRAIN

1.6 THP petrol engine developing 225hp (165kW) / torque of 275Nm
Electric motor on rear axle: power of 70hp / torque of 200Nm
ZEV mode: range of 50km

PERFORMANCE AND CONSUMPTION

0 to 1,000m: 25.3 seconds
0 to 62mph: 5.4 seconds
Top speed: 152mph (244kph)
Consumption: 166mpg (1.7l/100km) over a combined cycle MVEG
CO2 emissions: 39g/km

AERODYNAMICS

CdA: 0.61

RUNNING GEAR

MICHELIN tyres 245/35 ZR21

Citroen DS4 Racing Concept

Citroen has releases photos and details for the DS4 Racing Concept ,which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in next month.

The concept car is based on the current DS4 five-door with a long list of modifications that showcases the brand’s success and expertise as a World Rally Championship competitor.

Under the hood is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. In the regular DS4 this engine is tuned to develop as much as 200 horsepower but in DS4 Racing guise it now spits out a total 256 horsepower.

The engine was developed jointly by PSA Peugeot-Citroen and BMW, and it is widely used in each brand’s lineup. It powers the MINI Cooper, the Peugeot RCZ, and even the Citroen DS3 Racing, just to name a few.

The suspension has been substantially uprated to deal with the power hike - a 35mm drop all-round - and a wider front and rear track. These changes complement the 19-inch wheels that are fitted to the concept, housing the huge 380mm brake discs and four-pot callipers.

The DS4 may seem to be an unlikely basis for a hot hatch, being simply a more luxurious take on the rather bland C4 compact. It’s a five-door which tries to look like a three-door crossover, with hidden rear door handles and fixed rear side windows. It also is jacked up to sit higher than the C4.




Press Release

Citroën has sold more than 180,000 DS line models worldwide since launch. The adventure continues at the Geneva Motor Show with the reveal of the DS4 Racing Concept. As with the DS3 Racing, the engineers at Citroën Racing and the styling team have firmly stamped the DS4 with the image of the Brand's racing department.

Making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the DS4 Racing Concept features "100% Racing" attributes. The chassis is 35 mm lower than the regular model and track is 55 mm wider at the front and 75 mm wider at the back. The concept car also sports an air diffuser, a front bumper panel, a lower-body belt line and wing extensions. Citroën Racing has tweaked the 1.6-litre turbo engine to develop 256 bhp, or 160 bhp per litre - a record for a series-production car. This spectacular performance comes hand in hand with controlled CO2 emissions of 155 g/km.

Citroën Racing engineers have also redeveloped the running gear with the utmost precision. The concept car is equipped with four-pot, fixed calliper brakes at the front, with special discs widened to 380 mm in diameter, and shod with larger, 19-inch wheels (235/40).

Another stand-out feature of the Citroën DS4 Racing Concept is its matte grey, textured-effect paint - a first in the automotive sector. The grain of the paint catches the light differently and further enhances the body styling, while the colour is sober, modern and robust and ideally suited to a sports car. To refine the exterior aesthetic, the concept car gets a two-tone roof and specially-designed, two-tone wheel rims.

Citroen C3 Picasso Code Special Edition

French carmaker Citroen has releases the C3 Picasso Code for the UK market

The car is based on the most successful model of the range, the HDi 90 manual VTR+ version and comes with new equipment that complements the already generous list of standard features.,

The C3 Picasso Code Special Edition for the UK is available in four exterior colors, the Polar White, the Cherry red, the Belle Ile Blue and the Thorium Grey. The special edition of the French car is coming with curtain airbags, cruise control, air conditioning, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, chrome lower bumper inserts, black door handles with chrome inserts, longitudinal roof bars, black painted bumpers and a fresh set of 17 inch wheels.

Interior changes are limited to unique floor mats, but the model is nicely equipped with air conditioning, cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Citroen C3 Picasso Code Special Edition is coming with a 1.6 liter diesel engine, developing 90 horsepower and emitting 120 g/km of CO, with an estimated 61.4 mpg fuel consumption, for a price of 15.695 GBP.




Press Release

INTRODUCING CITROËN'S NEW C3 PICASSO CODE SPECIAL EDITION

Citroën has introduced a stylish new special edition into its award-winning C3 Picasso range - C3 Picasso Code.

The C3 Picasso Code, which replaces the previous Blackcherry special edition, is based on the best-selling HDi 90 manual VTR+ version, with added equipment.

Complementing a generous specification that already includes air conditioning, a Connecting Box (Bluetooth® system with USB socket), curtain airbags and cruise control with speed limiter, the C3 Picasso Code gains a ‘Look Pack' that features:

• Polar White or Cherry Red 17" ‘Clover' alloy wheels (depending on body colour)
• Chrome lower bumper inserts
• Shiny black painted door handles with chrome inserts
• Obsidian Black painted front & rear bumpers
• Obsidian Black door mirrors with shiny black surround & base plate
• Longitudinal roof bars
• Shiny black vent surrounds
• Carpet mats

There are four body colours to choose from - Polar White, Cherry Red, Belle Ile Blue and Thorium Grey. The Polar White wheels are available with the Belle Ile Blue or Cherry Red body colours and add Polar White painted side rubbing strips and a white rear number plate surround with chrome detailing. The Cherry Red alloy wheels are available with the Polar White or Thorium Grey body colours and bring Cherry Red painted side rubbing strips and a Cherry Red number plate surround with a chrome insert.

The new model's refined and efficient diesel HDi 90 powerplant returns an impressive 61.4mpg on the combined cycle and is eligible for free VED in the first year thanks to its sub-120g/km CO2 emissions.

The C3 Picasso Code special edition is ‘on sale' now priced from £15,695, which is just £300 more than the HDi 90 manual VTR+ version on which it is based.

Citroen Antistatic Concept

Citroen has released today the renderings of the new Citroen Antistatic Concept, or E-3POD, The project was jointly sponsored by Citroën and EXA, a France-based aerodynamicsimulation software company.

The best overall design was Heikki Juvonen's Citroen E 3POD Antistatic electric tripod which is a single seater vehicle features two small wheels at the front and a large third wheel with an innovative hub-less design. The Citroen E 3POD Antistatic electric tripod is positioned between bikes and cars in the micro segment, and is intended to enhance urban mobility as an addition to the family transportation fleet.

The designer Heikki Juvonen, receives a six month employment contract to work at the prestigious PSA Design Centre in Paris.




Press Release

A series of visionary designs in a Citroën sponsored project have been unveiled at the Royal College of Art’s Interim Degree Show in London. The Double Challenge project required RCA MA second year students to design a compelling ultra-compact model that could establish a unique Citroën e-vehicle aesthetic for the future. The project was jointly sponsored by Citroën and EXA, a France-based aerodynamic simulation software company.

Heikki Juvonen’s E-3POD Antistatic was chosen as the best overall design by representatives from Citroën’s Style Centre and Electric Vehicle Development Team. His single-seat creation is a bold and engaging take on an urban three wheel electric vehicle. The distinctive, aerodynamic styling features two smaller wheels at the front with the driver sitting inside a larger third wheel with an innovative hub-less design. As his prize, Heikki receives a six month employment contract to work at the prestigious PSA Design Centre in Paris.

Heikki commented; “I’m thrilled Citroën selected my design as their favourite and I can’t wait to work with their talented team in France. As a designer I strive for new and better solutions. Good and sustainable design not only improves manufacturer brand image and sales, but can also help to preserve our environment.”

Citroën had significant involvement throughout the Double Challenge project, providing industry figures to lend the students their expertise and experience, as well as organising a trip to the PSA Design Centre and Le Conservatoire, Citroën’s in-house museum of historic models.

Philippe Holland, Responsable Style Graphique at Citroën, said; “We’re delighted to be involved in this important RCA project. The students have produced some truly exceptional ideas for the future design of electric Citroën vehicles. This type of powertrain is increasingly recognised as an important solution for economically and environmentally viable urban transport; so it’s fantastic to see the electric visions of these potential car designers of tomorrow.”

The RCA is the only exclusively postgraduate art and design university. The college’s Automotive Design course has been in existence for 40 years and is the oldest of its kind in Europe.

Mark Lloyd, Chief Designer of the award-winning Citroen DS3, previously studied at the Royal College of Art.

Designed by RCA student Heikki Juvonen, the Citroën E-3POD Antistatic electric tripod is a new type of electric vehicle for urban commuting. The ultra-light, micro segment, single-seater is not meant to replace cars, but to be an addition to the family transportation fleet, positioned between bikes and cars. With the E-3POD, the user can enter the world of electric vehicles without having to sacrifice their main means of long distance travel in internal combustion engine cars. The distinctive look of the electric design language is applied to distinguish the product from being associated to cars, for the avoidance of comparison in terms of operational range or refuelling/recharging time. The E-3POD has a simplified, lightweight construction with an emphasis on aerodynamics to minimize the required battery size. This lowers the production costs, making the E-3POD affordable for purchase in addition to the family car - and a potential means of commuting for young people and students. The lowered weight is emphasized in design elements such as the rear wheel, which works as a supportive structural element, the shared suspension for both front wheels, and the use of scratch resistant plastic for the canopy. The silent electric engines also make sound insulation redundant, allowing for lighter material selection. The E-3POD provides the user with easy, cost efficient transport with access to easier parking due to the small footprint. The design also provides comfortable and isolated personal space, which - when compared to bicycles or public transport - is a welcome addition. The short length of the vehicle makes it agile in urban environments. At higher speeds the E-3POD tilts slightly to provide solid grip and an emphasised stance, giving cornering a more responsive feel.

Citroen Survolt Artcar

Citroen and French artist, Francoise Nielly, have teamed up to create this masterpiece. The painting is based on the all-new, all-electric Citroen Survolt concept, first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

The car is quite stunning simply left standing on its own, but with the colourful splashing of pink, green and yellow over the bonnet and other prominent contours, the car presents a fresh vibrant look and a definite step away from the usual ‘boring’ electric cars we’ve become used to.

The Citroen Survolt measures 3.85 meters long, wide and 1.2 1.87.mm high and weighs 1150 kilograms. Comes with a tubular chassis, a flat bottom with a hood and a full carbon body. In terms of features Survolt exclusively powered by electricity and 0-60 mph in just a shade under five seconds to produce a top speed of 162 mph.

The Survolt art car is displayed at C_42, the automotive producer’s “creme de la creme” showroom, which is located on the Champs-Elysees in Paris.




Press Release

Citroen has launched a new season at the Company’s international showcase, C_42, featuring a display of exciting models including a new ‘Art Car’ version of Survolt by Francoise Nielly, and Flavio Melchiorre’s personalised Citroen DS3 – winner of the Citroen Créative Awards competition.

The 14th season at the distinctive landmark building on the world famous Champs-Elysées also celebrates this year’s Paris Motor Show, bringing some of Citroen’s newest models such as the New C4, C-ZERO, DS3 Racing and DS4, to the public’s attention in the centre of Paris.

A specially created LED display on the C_42’s façade welcomes visitors with a multi-screen, digital creation symbolising Citroen’s ‘Créative Technologie’. Inside, the building’s magnificent revolving rotunda presents Citroen’s exciting model and concept ranges across several floors.

In the ground floor atrium, the exhibition opens with DS4, the second model in Citroen’s distinctive DS line. Guests can then experience the latest version of the C5 Tourer, presented in matt-black paintwork; the New C4, featuring Citroen’s innovative new e-HDi micro-hybrid technology; the stylish, hot-blooded special-edition DS3 Racing, displayed in a carbon setting; and the zero noise, zero fuel consumption and zero emission C-ZERO full-electric city car.

Fresh from its exhilarating UK duel against an electric superbike – the first head-to-head of its kind – the stunning all-electric Survolt racecar concept has been recharged with a bold, vivid and brightly contrasting new fluorescent paint scheme by Francoise Nielly. A source of inspiration for the original styling of Survolt, renowned contemporary artist Francoise Nielly worked closely with Citroen’s design team to create the exciting new interpretation of Citroen’s 100% electric racer – the Survolt ‘Art Car’.

On the top floor of C_42 is a display of Flavio Melchiorre’s personalised Citroen DS3 – the creation that won the Italian artist first prize in the Citroen Créative Awards, an international design competition launched in May 2010. The first Citroen Créative Awards received over 700 projects from around the world and the prize-winners were announced at a special evening held at C_42 on 5thOctober. Flavio Melchiorre’s DS3 creation will be launched in 2011 together with other new DS3 personalisation options.

Citroen Survolt vs Agni Z2【Video】

Citroen Survolt, the French electric concept presented this year at Geneva Auto Show,

The Citroen Survolt was driven in the race by Vanina Ickx – Le Mans Series and Touring Car racing driver. Yes, she's the daughter of Formula One driver, Jacky Ickx. The Agni Z2 was ridden by Jenny Tinmouth - the fastest woman around the Isle of Man TT course. The Citroen Survolt is powered by an electric motor, juiced by a 62kW battery, that outputs 300 bhp. The top speed of the Citroen Survolt is rated at 162 mph and the manufacturer says it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 5 seconds.

The Citroen Survolt features a tubular chassis, has a carbon fiber body, weights 1.15 tonnes and its 140 Kg lithium-ion battery pack enables it to reach speeds of 260 Km/h (162 mph). The Citroen Survolt packs a combined power of 300 BHP and need less than 5.0-seconds to sprint from 0 to 100 Km/h (0 to 62 mph).

Powered by 80 battery packs and weighing 220kg (485 lbs), the Agni Z2’s 65hp all-electric drivetrain delivers a 0-100 km/h (0-62mph) time of around 3.5 seconds with a top speed of just over 210 km/h (130 mph).

Propelled by two electric motors with a combined power of 300bhp from0 to 5,000rpm, Survolt is capable of exceptional performance with a topspeed of 260kph (162mph) and a 0-100kph (0-62mph) time of under five seconds.  The concept’s twin 140kg lithium-ion batteries each boast a 31kw capacity and can cover 200km (124 miles).






Press Release

Electric racecar faced electric superbike for the very first time as Citroën’s striking Survolt concept and an Agni Z2 went head-to-head at Thruxton race circuit.

In the capable hands of two professional female racers – Vanina Ickx and Jenny Tinmouth – car and bike battled it out to test speed, agility and performance in the all-electric shoot-out of four wheels against two.

Piloting Survolt was Vanina Ickx – Le Mans Series and Touring Car racing driver and daughter of Formula One driver, Jacky Ickx. Riding the Agni Z2 was Jenny Tinmouth, the fastest woman around the Isle of Man TT course and championship leader in the 2010 TTXGP.

Vanina Ickx commented; “This was a fantastic experience – the first electric duel of its type. The lack of engine noise made it a very interesting challenge. Normally you have an idea where your opponent is by their sound, but with electric vehicles it’s so much quieter – a new racing dynamic. I had a lot of fun and I’m thrilled to have been part of this unique track event.”

Survolt was fresh from its appearance on Sunday (12/09) as part of The Prince of Wales’ Start Eco Car Spectacular. Held on The Mall in the shadow of Buckingham Palace, Survolt led a parade of ecologically-conscious vehicles, wowing the crowds and attracting much appreciation from attending celebrities including Kevin McCloud, Sanjeev Bhaskar, Lisa Rogers and Quentin Willson. At the event’s prize-giving, Survolt was presented with the ‘Vision Award’ by M&S Chairman Sir Stuart Rose.

Specially developed with compact dimensions and a light-weight frame (1.15 tonnes) to suit the race track, Survolt features a tubular chassis, flat underside with extractor and full carbon bodywork, all combining to make a genuine emissions-free, electric racing car.

Propelled by two electric motors with a combined power of 300bhp from 0 to 5,000rpm, Survolt is capable of exceptional performance with a top speed of 260kph (162mph) and a 0-100kph (0-62mph) time of under five seconds. The concept’s twin 140kg lithium-ion batteries each boast a 31kw capacity and can cover 200km (124 miles).

Powered by 80 battery packs and weighing 220kg, the Agni Z2’s 65hp all-electric drivetrain delivers a 0-60mph time of around 3.5seconds with a top speed of just over 130mph.

2010 Paris Preview: Citroen Lacoste Concept

Citroen has releases photos and details for on its bizarre new concept called the Citroen Lacoste ,which will debut at the 2010 Paris Auto Show.

Inspired by the breadth of the Lacoste clothing and accessories ranges, the concept is finished in a range of attractive colours and materials from pearly white and textured blue bodywork to vibrant yellow touches and honeycomb structure wheel hubs.

At 3.45m long, 1.80m wide and 1.52m high with a 2.30m long wheelbase, the concept model is roughly the same size as a Citroën C1 / Toyota Aygo. Power comes from a three-cylinder gasoline engine, with the French firm claiming that it offers "plenty of performance on tap to power a vehicle of this size and weight."

Measuring 3.45 metres long, 1.8m wide and 1.52m tall and riding on a 2.3m wheelbase, the relatively small moonbuggy-like concept is powered not by the hybrid powertrains of most modern motor show concepts.

Inside, the cabin has a pixilated instrument cluster (inspired by early video games), a two-spoke steering wheel, numerous storage compartments, and folding rear seats. Speaking of the latter, they're upholstered in white cotton like Lacoste's polo shirts.

The concept is basically this: Take a bathtub, power it by a 3-cylinder gasoline engine, put a longitudinal roll hoop over its center, add a retractable windshield at the front. Graft on a roll hoop and install an "inflatable hood" to act as a roof in inclement weather. Douse liberally with all the active-lifestyle marketing buzzwords you can think of.

Source: Citroën




Press Release

Two names, Citroën and Lacoste, have come together with a shared vision - to cultivate boldness, creativity and optimism. The result of these common values: the new Citroën Lacoste Concept.

To be unveiled at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show, this new model is an emblem for a state-of-mind and a lifestyle. Clearly alluding to leisure and pleasure, it takes a simplified, no-nonsense approach to motoring - without forgetting refinement - and transports passengers to a lighter, fresher world.

The Citroën Lacoste Concept is both resolutely Citroën and typically Lacoste. Positioned at the crossroads of the automotive world, where fashion and sport meet, it makes a number of references to all three sectors. The technology on board also strikes a playful note, underlining the apparent paradox between design expertise and lightness of tone.

With its strong presence and joie de vivre, the high-tech and innovative Citroën Lacoste makes car travel an all-new experience and an incomparable adventure for the senses.

Pure, simple and laid-back, while remaining sophisticated, the Citroën Lacoste takes another step forward towards the car of the future - a vehicle aimed at putting an end to the "always more" mantra that often reigns in the automotive industry. The new model also fuels Citroën's thinking of focusing on the essentials to create original cars that are affordable and economical, while losing none of their ambition or motoring passion, notably through premium styling.


HEIGHTENED SENSATIONS

Sweeping away preconceived ideas on compact cars - with many being supposedly short on character - the new Citroën Lacoste proudly asserts that another way forward is possible.

Stylishly minimalist and elegantly laid-back, the Citroën Lacoste instantly attracts with its off-beat sports aesthetic. It features a high waistline; bulging and textured wings; minimum overhangs front and rear; and golf ball-style alloy wheels, placed in the furthest corners of the body.

After a longer inspection, it is this car's "open" physique that appeals - promising a fulfilling drive, while expressing a wealth of inventiveness and elegance.

Passengers enjoy an open-air experience thanks to the broad cut-outs that replace the front doors and the lack of a hard-top roof. Journeys in the Citroën Lacoste inevitably heighten the senses, much more than in a protective bubble that cuts occupants off from the world. As if these intense sensations weren't enough, the windscreen can also be lowered out of sight, providing a harmonious waistline around the entire cabin, front, back and sides.

The elegance of the Citroën Lacoste is underpinned by the choice of drivetrain. Rather than seeking enhanced driving sensations through flat-out speed, the Citroën Lacoste Concept opts for a 3-cylinder petrol engine with plenty of performance on tap to power a vehicle of this size and weight. With its light timbre, the flexible, economical and ecological powerplant is a perfect match for the car's "back to essentials" nature.

The Citroën Lacoste Concept respects the environment, not only by virtue of its engine, but also its design choices. Even with its large wheels, the Citroën Lacoste seems to "embrace" rather than confront nature. This impression takes concrete form in the subtle, undulating shape of the wheels, in an approach that suggests Citroën Lacoste drivers are playing with the elements for more fun.

SPONTANEOUS APPROACH

Along with its bright and breezy approach to life, the convertible Citroën Lacoste also features taut, muscular and reassuring lines. Compact and robust (at 3.45m long, 1.80m wide, 1.52m high and with a 2.30m wheelbase), the new model expresses faultless expertise in its styling and design.

The car's laid-back personality stems from its purity, as evidenced in the body paint in pearlescent white, which is set off by dark blue design motifs and strips underlining the forms of the vehicle.

Cabin access couldn't be easier, since the doors have been replaced by broad cut-outs that are in perfect harmony with the body styling. Access to the rear seats is just as easy, with passengers simply jumping onto the rear bench. For transporting luggage or sports equipment, the rear bench slides handily into the boot.

The car can also be fitted with specially designed sports equipment, including tennis racquets, golf clubs, skis, a surfboard or a bike, with owners deciding on the theme of their weekends.

At the crossroads of motoring, fashion and sport, the Citroën Lacoste makes a number of references to all three worlds.The cabin contains countless storage areas for enhanced travelling comfort. The compartments are discreetly located under the dashboard and within the two bench seats - with sliding covers that echo the colour of the upholstery. The seats themselves are overstitched in white cotton, with a weave closely resembling that of a polo shirt - an iconic Lacoste design. Building on this theme, the seatbelt anchorage points have "necklines" like a polo shirt, while the seats are covered in robust, rope-like cotton.

Like a wardrobe full of different clothes, accessories and fabrics, the Citroën Lacoste plays with a range of colours and materials. For fun, simplicity and elegance, the emphasis is on bold, traditional colours like white and deep blue. The cabin is then dotted with bright - almost fluorescent - yellow splashes in the storage compartments and on the grab handles, which are finished in soft and tactile rubber, with a tennis ball-like effect.

The fun-loving Citroën Lacoste brings familiar objects to mind. Some details make reference to the sporting world of the Lacoste brand. It boasts square relief designs that resemble sections of a tennis net on several parts of its body. The fairing that rises up from the underbody, at both the front and the rear, recalls the print left by a tennis shoe on a clay court.

CREATIVE & "MAGICAL" TECHNOLOGY

The on-board technology is also of a playful nature, underlining the seeming paradox between design expertise and lightness of tone. Strictly speaking this car has no fixed roof. In its place is a T-shaped structure that extends back to the boot like a "backbone". With several functions, this structure helps when accessing the vehicle and features an ingenious system that provides shelter for passengers. An auto-inflatable hood deploys all the way along the backbone to form a soft-top roof. In the same yellow as the grab handles, the inflatable roof ensures a light-filled cabin, come rain or shine.

Invisible at first glance, the deployment of the system makes for quite a spectacle. By choosing this inflatable hood rather than a conventional structure, the Citroën Lacoste Concept remains faithful to its simple and light-hearted nature.

In much the same spirit, the fascia strip on the dashboard serves as the car's display screen, showing driving information such as speed and the directional indicators. Messages take the form of icons with oversized pixels. This is a clear nod to the very first video games, although behind the naïve appearance lie cutting-edge technologies.

The Citroën Lacoste's two-spoke steering wheel impresses with its minimalist design, simplicity and size. When passengers board, the wheel can be moved from its normal position and located against the upper dashboard - an ingenious way of optimising access to the front bench.

Even the front and rear lights are discreet to the point of being almost invisible. Concealed under the car's dark blue bodywork, they can be seen only when illuminated. As well as providing visual purity, this design choice delivers a unique and almost magical sight.