Peugeot RC HYmotion4 Concept Racing Car

With Citroen, Peugeot RC HYmotion4 is a field that is increasingly cluttered with hybrid concepts using a new system that can take the road to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. Fortunately for Peugeot, they have managed not just recycle or rebadge an existing model, but have incorporated this technology into an boldly attractive four door GT coupe.

Peugeot has joined sister-brand Citroen by releasing a concept vehicle based on the new HYmotion4 AWD hybrid system. The new concept is according to Peugeot, a ‘Touring Car Coupe’ that features a number of engineering and technological ideas expected to make their way, if only gradually, into both of the carmaker’s future production models. Unlike the hybrid systems used by current production vehicles, this concept has no direct mechanical connection between the electric and internal combustion drive systems. This way, the RC can operate in either rear, front, or all-wheel-drive modes. That means it can also operate using internal combustion, electric only or blended mode combining both. Propelling this concept is a rear mounted turbocharged 1.6 liter engine driving the rear wheels and producing 218 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque. Up front, an electric motor provides up to another 132 lb-ft of torque and provides a governed combined production of 313 horsepower. This sort of power pays of with acceleration to 62 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. The electrons are stored in a lithium-ion battery pack of an as unreleased size, but having the electric motor at the front instead of the rear axle means that more kinetic energy can be recaptured through the regenerative braking process. According to Peugeot, the RC can get 52.3 mpg with a minimum output of just 109 g/km of CO2 emissions.

Other Hymotion4 concepts in the mix for the future include Peugeot’s Prologue, which previews an upcoming 3008 crossover, as well as the Citroen Hypnos and C4 WRC rally car. These concepts, according to the manufacturer, are a synthesis of ideas that demonstrate a commitment to both respecting the environment and driving pleasure. If all of the technology that is used within this concept lives up to the manufacturer claims, the French may have the inside track in future hybrid production.

Peugeot RC HYmotion4 Concept Racing Car

With Citroen, Peugeot RC HYmotion4 is a field that is increasingly cluttered with hybrid concepts using a new system that can take the road to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. Fortunately for Peugeot, they have managed not just recycle or rebadge an existing model, but have incorporated this technology into an boldly attractive four door GT coupe.

Peugeot has joined sister-brand Citroen by releasing a concept vehicle based on the new HYmotion4 AWD hybrid system. The new concept is according to Peugeot, a ‘Touring Car Coupe’ that features a number of engineering and technological ideas expected to make their way, if only gradually, into both of the carmaker’s future production models. Unlike the hybrid systems used by current production vehicles, this concept has no direct mechanical connection between the electric and internal combustion drive systems. This way, the RC can operate in either rear, front, or all-wheel-drive modes. That means it can also operate using internal combustion, electric only or blended mode combining both. Propelling this concept is a rear mounted turbocharged 1.6 liter engine driving the rear wheels and producing 218 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque. Up front, an electric motor provides up to another 132 lb-ft of torque and provides a governed combined production of 313 horsepower. This sort of power pays of with acceleration to 62 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. The electrons are stored in a lithium-ion battery pack of an as unreleased size, but having the electric motor at the front instead of the rear axle means that more kinetic energy can be recaptured through the regenerative braking process. According to Peugeot, the RC can get 52.3 mpg with a minimum output of just 109 g/km of CO2 emissions.

Other Hymotion4 concepts in the mix for the future include Peugeot’s Prologue, which previews an upcoming 3008 crossover, as well as the Citroen Hypnos and C4 WRC rally car. These concepts, according to the manufacturer, are a synthesis of ideas that demonstrate a commitment to both respecting the environment and driving pleasure. If all of the technology that is used within this concept lives up to the manufacturer claims, the French may have the inside track in future hybrid production.

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.

Citroen DS3 Racing details and price

Citroen has released production details and price of its DS3 Racing for the European market.

Based on the range topping DSport THP 150 version and powered by a 1.6-litre THP engine producing 207 HP and 275 Nm of torque, the Citroen DS3 Racing edition needs 6.5 seconds to sprint from 0 to 62 mph and can reach a top speed of 146 mph.   

The get the extra power, the Citroen DS3 R features a reprogrammed ECU, new turbos and a new exhaust system. The Citroen DS3 R also comes with a stiffer suspension, a 30 mm lowered ride height and upgraded brakes. The aerodynamics of the car have also been improved.

Paint choices are limited to two: black and orange or white and grey, both offset by various carbon fibre trimmings: rear diffuser, front grille, side rubbing strips, wheel arch extensions, centre console, steering wheel and door inserts.

The Citroen DS3 Racing price starts at 23,100 GBP.




Press Release

Citroën has released full details and pricing for the hotly anticipated DS3 Racing, and has announced that customer orders can be placed from 1^st September, 2010.

Developed by Citroën Racing – the winning team behind five WRC Manufacturer’s titles and six Driver’s titles for Sébastien Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena – DS3 Racing has an impeccable sporting pedigree. The specially tuned 1.6-litre THP engine produces 207hp and maximum torque of 275Nm, which means DS3 Racing boasts a top speed of 146mph, a 0-62mph time of just 6.5 seconds and takes just 26.5 seconds to cover 1,000m from a standing start.

Based on the top-of-the-range DS3 DSport THP 150, DS3 Racing has been extensively modified, by Citroën Racing, to deliver optimised sporting characteristics and specific equipment from the world of motorsport.

Significantly better specified than many of its competitors, DS3 Racing is a driver’s car that doesn’t compromise on comfort or convenient technology – standard equipment includes automatic digital air conditioning, Bluetooth® with USB connectivity and an eight-speaker HiFi system. DS3 Racing also has some new features such as S.ESP (Switchable Electronic Stability Programme) and the Citroën eTouch Assistance System.

RACING INSPIRED DESIGN

Respecting all of the fundamental design codes of DS3, DS3 Racing adds many more motorsport inspired features, including carbon fibre components such as the rear diffuser, front bumper, side rubbing strips and wheel arch extensions. The interior has received the same special treatment and the extensive use of carbon fibre continues on the centre console, steering wheel and door inserts.

DS3 Racing is available in two distinctive colour schemes, one with an Obsidian Black (pearlescent) body and a Sport Orange roof the other features a Polar White body with a Carbon Grey roof. The orange or grey roof colours are matched to the alloy wheels, door mirrors, chevrons, grille surround, tailgate spoiler and dashboard fascia*.

The exclusive nature of DS3 Racing is clearly denoted by the addition of ‘Citroën Racing’ on the
doors and figure-hugging sports seats, and the DS3 Racing signature on the rear tailgate.

POWER & DYNAMICS

Citroën’s new DS3 Racing has everything needed to become the benchmark in its segment in terms of dynamic performance. Thrills and excitement are at the heart of DS3 Racing and on the road this car’s sporting pedigree immediately becomes evident. DS3 Racing’s power and performance come directly from the brand’s expertise in rallying. Citroën Racing’s engineers have increased the power output of the 1.6-litre THP engine from 156hp to 207hp. Maximum torque is also increased, from 240Nm to 275Nm – an increase of nearly 15% – and is available over a wide rpm range to improve acceleration and engine flexibility.

DS3 Racing’s chassis and running gear have also been adapted and enhanced. The team’s engineers have been able to accentuate feedback from the road, with even more precision and control, sportier handling and swifter cornering. The suspension settings have been modified, specific dampers have been fitted, front and rear tracks have been widened by 30mm and the ride height has been lowered by 15 mm. The braking system has also been up-rated, with 4-piston callipers and special brake discs at the front. All of these changes combine to profoundly enhance the on-road behaviour of DS3 Racing.

PRICING & ORDERS

DS3 Racing is priced at £23,100 MRRP OTR, including VAT set at the new 20% rate as first deliveries are expected to commence early in 2011.

Citroën have confirmed that 200 RHD cars will come to the UK and strong demand is already evident with more than 1,500 enquiries made through Citroën’s UK website alone.

Customers will be able to place orders from Wednesday 1^st September, either by contacting their Citroën dealer or by calling a dedicated DS3 Racing order line: 0800 032 1776**.

For more details on new DS3 Racing, customers can click on http://www.citroen.co.uk/ds3-racing/

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

Dimensions (L x W x H) (mm)	3962 x 1717 x 1443
Wheelbase (mm)	2464
Engine/Transmission	THP 207hp/6-speed manual
Engine Type	4 cylinders/16v petrol + turbo
Capacity (cm3)	1598
Max power CEE hp/kW @ rpm	207/152 @ 6000
Max torque CEE (Nm) @ rpm	275 @ 2000 to 4500
Tyres	Bridgestone Potenza 215/40 R 18
Standing 1,000 m (sec)	26.5
0-62 mph (sec)	6.5
CO2 Emissions (g/km)	149

BASED ON DS3 DSPORT, DS3 RACING BENEFITS FROM A HIGH LEVEL OF ADDITIONAL STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Genuine carbon fibre parts (exterior & interior)

18” alloy wheels

Electrochrome rear view mirror

Automatic rain-sensitive windscreen wipers

Automatic illumination of headlamps

Rear parking sensors

BODY/ROOF COLOUR SCHEMES

Obsidian Black body/Sport Orange roof

=> brings orange alloys, door mirrors, tailgate spoiler, dashboard fascia, grille surround and chevrons

Polar White body/Carbon Grey roof

=> brings grey alloys, door mirrors, tailgate spoiler, white dashboard fascia and carbon fibre grille surround and chevrons

UPHOLSTERY/INTERIOR

DS3 RACING sport front seats (Alcantara®/Trami cloth, with ‘Citroën Racing’ embossing)

Specific DS3 Racing mats and key

* White dashboard with the Polar White body colour.

** Line opens at 2.00pm on Wednesday 1^st September.