Citroën has revealed Cactus, a new concept car and a vision for future C-line models. Powered by a Hybrid Air drivetrain, the vehicle’s architecture and styling is focused on efficiency and creating non-aggressive flowing surfaces say the designers.
The vehicle sits relatively high, with a ground clearance of 21 cm, but maintains an overall height of only 1.53 metres. At 4.21 metres long and 1.75 metres wide, the car’s dimensions are similar to those of a hatchback.
Citroën’s designers believe they have created an ideal balance between the one-third glazed area and two-thirds wing surface. The absence of side and rear windows and B-pillars leads to an exposed cabin that has been completely reworked in terms of design, colours and materials. Inspired by contemporary furniture design, the front seats are designed in the style of a sofa for improved comfort whilst the treatment of the upper storage areas and interior door handles were inspired by luxury luggage styling.
In addition to the ‘floating’ roof and rear quarter panels, the car also features unique ‘Airbumps’ on its exterior body panels. Located on the sides and bumpers of the car, and covered with a soft, scratch-resistant material, these air capsules are claimed to protect the body of the car.
The concept study features Citroën’s new Hybrid Air drivetrain – a full-hybrid, compressed air and hydraulics system – which is combined with a PureTech engine. This system, which requires no additional batteries, achieves a 45% reduction in fuel consumption in urban driving and delivers fuel economy in excess of 94mpg (under 3l/100km) according to the French car maker’s official figures.
The origins of Citroën Cactus began with the C-Cactus concept car, which premiered at the 2007 Frankfurt show. This latest design iteration hints at the visual styling of Citroën’s new range of C-line models.
Source: Citroën
