Archive for Citroen
2010 Citroen DS3 R Official Revealed
Posted by: | CommentsCitroen is unleashing a hot new Citroen DS3 at the Geneva Motor Show - the limited edition 200hp Citroen DS3 Racing.
Developed by Citroen Racing - the winning team behind five WRC manufacturer’s titles and six driver’s titles for Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena - Citroen DS3 Racing is a special edition with a 100% sporting pedigree. Planned for the second half of 2010, the exclusive Citroen DS3 R will be limited to just 1000 production units. With integrated carbon-trimmed components and specialist motorsports equipment, Citroen DS3 Racing’s tuned and turbo-charged 1.6-litre THP 150 engine develops 200hp - a power increase of almost 30% over the standard unit - with a torque increase of 15% from 240Nm to 275Nm.
To achieve the additional power output, from 156hp to 200hp, Citroen Racing’s engineers modified and optimised the powertrain components, tuned the performance of the turbo and adjusted the mapping of the engine control unit. A special tail pipe and muffler were also added.
Allowing Citroen DS3 R to stick to the road, the car has undergone some significant sporting enhancements. The steering has been made even more precise, with the control system modified for the new tyres. The fitment of stiffer suspension springs, adapted front and rear shock absorbers (to handle the increased power), and the widening of the front and rear tracks by 30mm - plus lowering the car by 15mm - all dramatically change the driving dynamics.
These important developments reinforce both the stability and dynamic control of the car, and enhance the feedback between the road and the driver.
The braking system has also been up-rated to ensure control over the car’s additional horsepower. The front wheels get 4-piston racing callipers and special disc-brakes - with drilled discs at the rear. For enhanced control, the ESP has been adapted to complement the sportier handling, but can be disengaged according to the driver’s preference.
In addition to the distinctive, radical styling of Citroen DS3, the new Racing edition inherits Citroen Racing’s expertise in motorsport design to provide advanced technological and stylistic sporting prowess.
The preview model, to be presented at Geneva, is in a special livery and features sporty ‘Citroen DS3’, ‘Citroen Racing’ and chequered flag graphics on the roof, in front of the rear wheel arches, under the side mirrors and next to the fuel cap.
Measuring 3.94m long, Citroen DS3 Racing’s dark grey body is tastefully contrasted with a vibrant, bright orange-coloured roof, side mirrors and brake callipers. The alloy wheels and front grille surround - with integrated chevrons - are finished in orange chrome.
A sporty carbon finish is used around the front bumper, lower body trim and wing extensions, whilst large 18” alloy wheels, chrome door handles and even a chrome-finished exhaust complete the dynamic styling.
Inside the cabin, smart carbon trim adorns the dashboard, centre console, steering wheel embellisher, armrests and door side mouldings. The vibrant orange bodywork and decals continue into the cabin with the glossy strip of the dash, gear stick and gear stick surround finished in the same bright tone. The sporty, figure-hugging seats are also touched with orange elements and are embossed with ‘Citroen Racing’.
A Citroen DS3 R signature on the rear tailgate and an individually numbered identification plate fixed to the roof-lining further confirm the model’s exclusivity.
On the road, Citroen DS3 Racing’s WRC pedigree is evident. Benefiting from Citroen’s extensive knowledge of racing dynamics, a carbon-finished air diffuser stabilises the car at high speeds, whilst the chassis and suspension have been adapted to provide even more precision, control, sportier handling and swifter cornering.
Based on the existing DSport powered by the THP 150, production Citroen DS3 R editions will be finished in a special workshop and fitted with a parts kit developed according to Citroen Racing specifications.
2010 Citroen DS3 Pricing Announced
Posted by: | CommentsAhead of the launch in spring 2010, Citroën has released prices and specification details for its most hotly anticipated model to date – DS3. Citroën has also unveiled an online configurator that allows members of the public to create their perfect DS3.
DS3 is an assertive, urban 3-door supermini with radical styling, elegant detailing and an extensive choice of customisable design options for a bespoke driving experience. DS3 is the first model from Citroën’s new DS line, which will consist of three distinctively styled, attention grabbing cars – DS3, DS4 and DS5 – that highlight the very best of Citroën’s ‘Créative Technologie’.
DS3 will be offered in three new Citroën trim levels – DSign, DStyle and DSport – with a choice of three petrol and two HDi diesels ranging from 90hp to 150hp. All three DS3 petrol engines were co-developed with BMW.
An environmentally considerate 99g/km 1.6HDi 16V 90hp will also be available – delivering up to 74.3mpg.
The DS3 range starts with the petrol 1.4 16V VTi 95hp in DSign trim, which is priced from just £11,700.
The price of a fully specified, fully personalised, range-topping DSport model, powered by the punchy 1.6 THP 150hp petrol engine, is £18,775.
Due to great customer interest in the model, Citroën has taken the exceptional step of launching an online DS3 configurator – significantly in advance of the car’s on-sale date – so future owners can create their perfect DS3, based on their own performance and style preferences.
Customers start using the configurator by selecting the engine and trim level for their DS3. Then, depending on these initial choices, they can specify body colour, roof colour and roof graphics, as well as a host of other features like chrome door mirrors, chrome rubbing strips, up to 17” alloy wheels in different styles and colours, front LEDs, upholstery material and colour scheme, and even one of six colours for the dashboard and gear knob.
There are also equipment packs to choose from, which include features like automatic headlamps, rear parking sensors, MyWay satellite navigation, Connecting Box (Bluetooth with USB socket), and a front central armrest.
The choice is comprehensive and unprecedented for a new car by a mainstream manufacturer.
As an example of the extensive personalisation DS3 offers and the resulting prices, a mid-range 1.6 16V VTi 120hp model in DStyle trim, specified with a metallic body colour, contrasting roof, chrome door mirrors, chrome rubbing strips, 16” white diamond-tipped alloy wheels, LED diodes, mistral and cloth interior, a shiny black dashboard and the Connecting Box with HiFi system has an OTR price of £14,650 – just £950 more than an un-personalised model with the same engine and trim.
DS3 is already one of the most eagerly awaited new cars of 2010, and now customers can pre-order with the full confidence of knowing that individuality is just a click away.
2010 Citroen C ZERO in Detail
Posted by: | CommentsCITROEN C-ZERO: THE NEW 100% ELECTRIC CITY CAR
Zero fuel consumption, zero CO2 emissions and zero engine noise: with the C-ZERO, CITROEN is broadening its compact vehicle range with a 100% electric offering.
The new city car is designed to make urban mobility easier - thanks to its compact dimensions, rapid charge and generous range for day-to-day car journeys. And all of this in a silence that makes occupants forget about the noise of the city. The C-ZERO combines technology and creativity to meet tomorrow’s challenges today.
Having already produced more than 5,500 electric vehicles, CITROEN has the experience vital to being a front-runner in a market segment that is set to grow significantly in the coming years.
Due for launch in the last quarter of 2010, the C-ZERO is developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
A NEW PRODUCT OFFERING CONSISTENT WITH CITROEN POLICY
Long committed to a policy of reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, CITROEN - a leading manufacturer of low CO2 cars - is adding the C-ZERO to a range that already features a wealth of environmentally respectful products.
Current CITROEN achievements:
New C3 and DS3 models emitting 99g/km of CO2 will be available from launch in 2010.
More than 30% of CITROEN vehicles sold emit less than 120g/km of CO2.
Up-coming technologies:
Widespread application of second-generation Stop & Start in 2010.
Launch of a full-hybrid vehicle, the DS5, in 2011.
A 100% ELECTRIC VEHICLE
The CITROEN C-ZERO is a full-electric vehicle powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 47kW or 64bhp EEC from 3,000 to 6,000rpm. Maximum torque of 180Nm is available from 0 to 2,000rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear axle via a single-speed reduction gear.
The motor is powered by a latest-generation 330-volt lithium-ion battery system comprising 88 50Ah cells (for onboard energy of 16kWh), mounted in the center of the vehicle. Lithium-ion technology keeps battery weight down compared with conventional technology, while offering equivalent performance. It is also resistant to partial re-charges, which have no impact on battery longevity.
EASY TO CHARGE, EASY TO USE
Re-charging the C-ZERO’s batteries could not be simpler. Owners plug the supply cord into a 220-volt socket. A complete charge takes six hours, while an 80% charge is possible in just 30 minutes using an external station with a single-phase current of 125A at 400V, for power of up to 50kW.
Using the car is equally simple. When the driver turns the ignition key, a beep confirms that the car is running. CITROEN C-ZERO drives like a regular car with an automatic gearbox. The traditional fuel gauge is replaced by a battery charge indicator.
PERFORMANCE & FEATURES FOR TODAY’S NEEDS
The CITROEN C-ZERO is perfectly adapted to the needs of all kinds of users - including public sector operators, local authorities, smaller businesses and company fleets - and also to those of private customers looking for a car with exceptionally low running costs.
With four real seats - thanks to a 2.55m wheelbase - and a 166 litre boot, the C-ZERO is impressively quiet to drive and boasts a plethora of comfort and safety equipment. Original-fit features include power steering, ABS, traction control, ESP, electric windows, six airbags and air conditioning.
A CITY CAR AT EASE ON THE OPEN ROAD
The C-ZERO’s compact exterior dimensions - 3.48m long - and a 9m turning circle, make it a cinch to nip in and out of city traffic. And with a top speed of 130kph (80mph), acceleration from 0-100kph (0-62mph) in 15 seconds and 60-90kph (37-56mph) in 6 seconds, along with a range of around 130km (80miles), over a standard combined cycle, it is also fully at ease out on the open road.
2010 Citroen DS3 Official Revealed
Posted by: | CommentsThe new Citroen DS3 will be available in Spring 2010. The expectations for this model are very big, because of innovate vehicle design and the new more powerful and fuel efficient engines. The 3 petrol engines are co-developed with BMW, which is a proof of excellence.
The two HDi diesels – a 90bhp and an 110bhp – are fitted with Citroën’s lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System) and the three petrol engines – VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150 – are fitted with either 5 or 6 speed manual gearboxes.
The electronic systems will take care about your safety – ABS, ESP, EBD and EBA come in standard with every Citroen DS3.
At first glance it doesn’t look like Citroen C3, sport lines, aggressive front and back, big rims, sharp style. The DS3 will be more than little city car, it has its own style.
Citroën DS3 will be shown on September 15 at Frankfurt Motor Show for the first time.
The DS3 will be the first model from Citroën’s brand new DS line, a product range consisting of three distinctively styled, attention-grabbing models that highlight the very best of Citroën’s ‘créative technologie.’
With razor sharp styling and a visually-arresting design, DS3 is a radical take on the compact urban vehicle and a contemporary breath of fresh air for the class.
Designed to meet the requirements of even the most demanding connoisseur, DS3 offers an extensive array of style, personalisation and quality materials for a bespoke and refined driving experience, whilst at the same time embodying the very latest Citroën technology including fuel-efficient, environmentally-considerate engines.
STUDIO STYLING
Citroën’s creative talent for innovative vehicle design manifests itself on every feature of the DS3.
From all angles, the car’s undeniable on-road presence and refreshing style is evident with stand-out elements such as the colour-contrasted ‘floating roof’, ‘shark fin’ B-pillar and sleek design of the front LED lights – a desirable feature usually seen on premium models.
Inside, the atmosphere in the cabin is one of class and contemporary elegance with an exceptional attention to detail and an extensive use of luxury materials such as leather and chrome. The upper part of the flowing dashboard echoes the floating roof. Thermo-coated components are used throughout – an organic, soft grain material, which contrasts perfectly with the smooth, lacquered effect of the strip runs the full width of the dash from driver to passenger side.
“MY DS3!”
Offering freedom of expression, the innovative DS3 provides extensive levels of personalisation – both inside and out.
In addition to a range of body shades, the DS3’s distinctive ‘floating’ roof is available in a choice of four colours – Black, White, Blue and Red – to contrast with the main body of the car. The wing mirrors and rubbing strips can also be personalised in colours or smart chrome finish and the wheels and wheel centres are available in a wide spectrum of colours.
Inside, DS3 can offer further personalisation with the dashboard strip – which encompasses the air vents, instrument cluster, multi-function screens and even a scented air-fresher – in a choice of six finishes.
The modern seat upholstery design is available in a variety of coloured fabrics and leather; even the gear knob can be tailored in five different trims, combining satin-finish chrome with an array of colours and leather. The smart chrome touches which adorn the DS3’s cabin will also be available in a satin-textured finish. You can even carry a bit of your DS3 with you thanks to each distinctly styled DS3 key fob featuring a disc coloured to match your choice of body paint.
ENERGY AND ELEGANCE
Proving that environmentally-considerate motoring doesn’t mean having to compromise on style or performance, the DS3 will be available with a choice of five CO2-efficient Euro V power plants consisting of two HDi diesel units and three BMW co-developed petrol engines, combining refined performance with strong fuel economy.
The two HDi diesels – a 90bhp and an 110bhp – are fitted with Citroën’s lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System) and the three petrol engines – VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150 – are fitted with either 5 or 6 speed manual gearboxes.
Fully in line with Citroën’s commitment to producing cleaner, more environmentally considerate vehicles, the two HDi DPFS engines will deliver ultra low CO2 emissions of just 99g/km and 115/g km, whilst the petrol units will emit between 136g/km and 160g/km.
LOST IN SPACE
Both enjoyable and easy to live with, the DS3 combines high-end style with practical versatility, creating an exceptionally spacious cabin out of its compact external dimensions – a Citroën speciality.
One of the smallest vehicles in its class – 3.95m long, 1.71m wide and 1.46m high – the DS3’s interior belies its neat frame, setting a new class standard for spaciousness. The result of extensive work on the architecture of the car’s interior design, occupants can enjoy levels of roominess normally associated with models in the segment above.
A ‘raised’ dashboard design creates increased amounts of front leg room whilst the slender front seats and intelligent rear design increases space for rear occupants with all passengers able to enjoy five full-sized seats and ample arm, leg and headroom.
The DS3 also boasts the largest boot in its class at 285-litres, and for additional load capacity the 60:40 split-fold rear bench can be tumbled forward in a single, effortless movement.
FUN AT THE WHEEL
A cockpit-inspired driving position puts the driver firmly in control with a sports-styled instrument cluster featuring three conical dials, small-diameter wheel and low-slung, body-hugging seats. DS3 delivers a nimble driving experience with a turning circle of around 10.3m also making it a surefooted companion for manoeuvring around cramped urban environments.
Building upon Citroën’s extensive experience in producing smooth running-gear, DS3 delivers impressive ride comfort together with responsive road-handling and dynamic poise. Drivers also benefit from excellent body roll control, responsive and confident cornering thus providing a secure and fulfilling drive.
I.C.E. COOL
DS3 is available with Citroën’s latest in-car technology such as the integrated MyWay satellite navigation unit which incorporates a sophisticated audio and multimedia system, wide format colour screen, MP3 and WMA compatible CD player and Bluetooth® hands free kit. Providing exceptional acoustic clarity, the audio system benefits from a third speaker in the middle of the upper dashboard as well as an amplified subwoofer mounted in the boot for a broader frequency response and immersive audio experience.
A convenient range of driving aids will also be available including cruise control with speed limiter, and an intelligent indicator which recommends the optimal moment for gear changes allowing drivers to improve their fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.
PLAY IT SAFE
The DS3 is designed with an emphasis on robustness, strength and optimum safety to ensure protection for all occupants. For reassuring control in any driving situation DS3 models will feature as standard ESP, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Brake Assist) as well as six airbags and Isofix anchor points on the rear side seats.
The DS3 will arrive in the UK in Spring 2010. ‘On Sale’ date, prices and further details on this exciting new Citroën model will be announced in the forthcoming months. The DS3 will join Citroën’s latest vehicle range as the Company continues its 90th birthday celebrations at the Frankfurt Motor Show which runs from 15th to the 27th of September.
Citroen C4 Aresenal Fan Car Official Revealed
Posted by: | CommentsArsenal manager Arsène Wenger and players, Gael Clichy and Robin van Persie joined world famous cartoonist Gerald Scarfe last week to unveil a unique Citroën C4.
The ‘Ultimate Arsenal Fans’ Car’ was designed by Scarfe in consultation with the players and is being raffled in aid of Arsenal’s Charity of the Season, Teenage Cancer Trust.
Citroën, Arsenal Football Club’s official car supplier, donated the stylish new C4 to the Club for the unique project to help raise awareness and funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Tickets to win the car cost just £2 with all funds going to Teenage Cancer Trust.
The car will be displayed at the Emirates Stadium for the next three Arsenal home matches (14th March Arsenal FC vs. Blackburn, 4th April Arsenal FC vs. Manchester City and 26th April Arsenal FC vs. Middlesbrough).
Supporters are invited to give their input on what they would like to find inside the hatchback via http://www.arsenal.com/tctcitroenc4
Citroen DS Inside Concept Revealed
Posted by: | CommentsRenewing models and making them significantly better than their predecessors is already an ambitious program. But some customers want deeper-seated changes as mentalities shift from “wanting more” to “wanting better”. This strategy is based on two approaches:
Practical but stylish
The first approach, consisting in satisfying fundamental mobility needs, addresses customers who, having down-sized, are on the look-out for more economical – and more intelligent – products.
Some would describe this as low-cost, but it isn’t. The real challenge for CITROEN is designing products that are less expensive but with no loss in appeal. This approach is perfectly illustrated by the CITROEN C3 Picasso, a real recession proof car. And, going forward, our CITROEN C-Cactus project will be an even more accomplished solution.
Motoring pleasure and pride of ownership
In contrast, the second approach favors motoring pleasure, with no loss in practicality. Customers here are looking for outstanding products that confer status and bring them an all-new automotive experience. They want prestige, thrills and refinement, without the rigid codes of traditional upper-range models.
To address this need, CITROEN is today launching a new line of products to broaden its current range. The new line will consist of three new cars, positioned in the small, medium and large car segments, launched successively from 2010.
The first illustration of this new product line is the CITROEN DS INSIDE concept car. The concept car and vehicle line are characterized by forthright choices on styling, onroad performance and use. These are accessible objects of desire, cars that stand apart by their creativity, intelligent design and build quality, embodying the very best of CITROEN. The new product line will perfectly illustrate CITROEN’s new spirit of “Créative Technologie”.
The new line will also have a new naming system. Like the main range vehicles, which carry the letter C and a number, and, like the MPVs, which sport the Picasso signature, the new models will feature a special name: the DS line.
DS stood and continues to stand for a new approach to automobiles and the future. CITROEN is taking inspiration from its design DNA to strengthen the positioning of its new product line. The range instills the different spirit, that the name DS inspires. Hence the distinctive model line up will be called DS3, DS4 and DS5. DS: Different Spirit.
IV – February 2009: A new era. CITROEN plays a starring role.
2009 Citroen C1 Facelift Pricing Announced
Posted by: | CommentsCitroën’s super efficient C1 city-car complete with a smart new look for 2009 is now on sale, featuring a restyled front end, new body colours and trims, as well as even lower CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy.
The C1’s get-up-and-go spirit has been enhanced with a smaller bumper, available with sporty chrome touches, giving the car a more dynamic visage. Inside, a new interior trim is available whilst two new metallic body shades, Electra Blue and Mica Green, have been added.
Since it was first launched in 2005, Citroën’s C1 has become Europe’s best selling sub-110g/km CO2 emitting car. An increasing demand for the talented city car has meant that the C1 is now one of the UK’s slowest depreciating cars1, as well as being one of the UK’s greenest; with the new model offering improved CO2 emissions of as low as 106g/km. Cementing the C1’s class-topping economical credentials, the nippy 1.0i petrol engine now boasts improved fuel consumption of up to 62.8mpg on the combined cycle whilst the 1.4HDi can achieve an amazing 68.9mpg.
This latest Citroën upgrade also means that in just one year Citroën has completely renewed, or significantly revised, 6 of its models – the C1, C2, C4, C5 and C8 as well as the Berlingo Multispace. With the arrival of the new look C1, the Company has also taken the opportunity to rationalise the range to 2 core trim levels:
VT – The entry level trim, offering great value for money
VTR - The heart of the range with extra comfort features
Model
VT
1.0i 12V 68hp 3Dr
106 g/km CO2
£7,595.00
1.0i 12V 68hp 5Dr
106 g/km CO2
£7,945.00
VTR
1.0i 12V 68hp 3Dr
106 g/km CO2
£8,095.00
1.0i 12V 68hp 5Dr
106 g/km CO2
£8,445.00
1.4HDi 55hp 5Dr
109 g/km CO2
£9,395.00
World’s first application of single-nanocatalyst technology in catalytic converters
Posted by: | Comments
Mazda Motor Corporation has announced the world’s first market application of single-nanocatalyst* technology in automobile catalytic converters. This highly durable new catalyst significantly reduces the amount of precious metals used and effectively purifies vehicle exhaust gases. It will first be introduced in the all-new Mazda3 (known as the Mazda Axela in Japan) which will commence global sales this year.
With the single-nanocatalyst, the underfloor catalytic converter in the all-new Mazda3 requires only 0.15g/L of precious metals, approximately 70 percent less than the 0.55g/L required in the previous model. Along with the substantial reduction in precious metal usage, the Mazda3 continues to qualify as a Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SU-LEV) in Japan by achieving exhaust emissions that are at least 75 percent cleaner than the government’s 2005 regulations.
Automotive catalysts consist of a base material coated with precious metal particles. These metals promote chemical reactions that purify exhaust gases. In conventional catalysts, exposure to hot exhaust gases causes the precious metal particles to agglomerate into larger clumps, which reduces their effective surface area and catalytic activity. To counteract this, an increased amount of the precious metals is required to maintain an efficient purification performance.
Mazda developed the single-nanocatalyst to increase the effective surface area of the precious metals used. By developing a method of controlling precious metal particles that are less than five nanometers (nm) in diameter as well as a proprietary catalyst material structure, Mazda created the world’s first catalyst that features single-nanosized precious metal particles embedded in fixed positions. As a result, there is no agglomeration of the particles and the amount of rare metals used can be significantly reduced. Moreover, the new catalyst material will enable very efficient purification with minimal deterioration over time even under the harshest operating conditions.
Going forward, Mazda will progressively introduce the single-nanocatalyst to all its global markets, which will contribute to a reduction in the consumption of rare metals and cleaner vehicle exhaust emissions.
* The single-nanocatalyst involves using single-nanotechnology to control material structures on an even smaller scale than nanotechnology.
