CITROËN AT THE FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

Citroën has affirmed its forward-looking vision
at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show

Citroen presented the latest major additions to its range - the new Saxo, the Xsara Picasso and the new HDi engines - and premiered two ground-breaking projects: the Xsara Windows CE, a car controlled by voice-recognition software and designed jointly by Citroën, Microsoft and Clarion; and the Citroen Pluriel, a research prototype for the modular car of the future.

Two other prototypes were also on display at Frankfurt: the Citroën C3, the forerunner of Citroën's future B-segment model, which was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show; and the Citroën C6 Lignage, first seen at Geneva, which provides an insight into the architecture and style of the Marque's future top-of-the range vehicle.

With this impressive line-up, Citroën is forcefully demonstrating that it will play a pioneering role in the future of the motorcar.

Citroën extends its warranty to 12 years

From 14 September 1999, Citroën is increasing the duration of its anti-corrosion warranty to twelve years. The new warranty will apply to the restyled Saxo and to all new models in the passenger vehicle range.

The decision to extend the duration of the anti-corrosion warranty to twelve years reflects the continuous efforts made by the Marque to increase the reliability and durability of its models. Citroën was one of the first carmakers to develop galvanisation processes for protecting sheet metal. As a result, it was able to offer customers a five-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Citroën's anti-corrosion plan begins at the vehicle design phase. The objective is to limit the number of areas in which water could collect, and to optimise assembly processes.

By conducting test programmes, Citroën is able to improve resistance to corrosion on a continuous basis. As part of these tests, the vehicles are exposed to conditions of operation that are far more severe than those they would normally encounter during their service life (laboratory tests, prolonged natural exposure to corrosion, saltwater fords, etc). Much information has been gathered since 1989 by observing how vehicles age in normal usage and in static conditions.

All models in the Citroën range are required to undergo - and to pass - anti-corrosion tests. In this way, the Marque is able to add to its store of experience.

The areas at risk on each vehicle are galvanised on both sides (external parts, subframe, metal edges, etc.). The decision to extend the anti-corrosion warranty to twelve years has therefore made it necessary to modify certain industrial processes. This change affects all Citroën production plants. On the Saxo for example, more than 50% of the spot welds have been modified.

Following its successful test programme and the far-reaching changes made to its industrial structure; Citroën is able to bring customers the benefit of its expertise by extending its anti-corrosion warranty to twelve years.

The warranty applies to all new passenger vehicles in the Citroën range (except first-generation Saxos) ordered from 14 September 1999, with no limitation on mileage. This warranty covers customers against any perforation of the body or

subframe caused by corrosion from inside the vehicle structure. Condition of application: from the age of four years onward, the vehicle must undergo an anti-corrosion inspection every two years within the Citroën network.

Paint warranty also extended

Rounding out its anti-corrosion warranty; Citroën has extended the paint warranty to three years. This warranty covers customers against any defects in the appearance of the paint or in the aging process. It applies to all new passenger vehicles in the Citroën range, with no limitation on mileage.

The Citroën Pluriel -
a study in a new way of building cars

The Pluriel is a new concept unveiled by Citroën at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show. This research prototype, which follows the C3 and C6 Lignage concept cars, illustrates the broad styling principles of a modular car that will take its place in the Citroën range at some point in the future.

The multi-faceted Pluriel is the result of Citroën's research studies and innovation in new automotive concepts. It does not fit into any of the traditional vehicle categories. A vehicle of significant interior and - more particularly - exterior modularity, Pluriel changes its body style to adapt to a wide variety of uses.

A vehicle with two removable arches running the length of the body, a retractable material top, a double floor at the rear, and no centre pillar, Pluriel can turn itself at will into a saloon convertible, an open-top leisure vehicle or a Spider pick-up.

On each variant, the retractable rear seat enlarges the load area according to requirements.

Each side of the Pluriel reflects a different style. The two options highlight the personality of this new product concept, which expresses freedom, enthusiasm and joy of living.

The Pluriel illustrates the many possibilities offered by a multi-purpose, practical and adaptable vehicle. With its modular interior and exterior, it adapts to a wide variety of uses, switching quickly and easily from one role to another to suit the circumstances and the requirements of the user.

When the large material sunroof is in the closed position, the Pluriel looks like a compact 3-door saloon convertible. To turn it into an open-top leisure vehicle, the driver simply presses the buttons controlling the roof and windows. The roof folds down onto the rear window and disappears into the false floor of the boot by means of an ingenious mechanism. The two arches remain in place on the car body, giving it a distinct personality, while ensuring excellent visibility and maintaining direct contact with the exterior.

But the multi-faceted Pluriel goes one step further: the two arches are fitted with an easy-to-use coupling system for easy removal. In this way, the vehicle becomes a Spider pick-up.

The rear seat of the Pluriel is designed to retract into the floor. The load area of each variant can thus be extended and the vehicle turned from a 4-seater into a 2-seater. The boot hatch opens downwards, extending the load floor and making it easy to transport long objects. Moreover, the boot does not have to be emptied to reach the false floor. A sliding plate is provided for this purpose.

The Pluriel is a research prototype exploring the concept of several vehicles in one. Designed to bring users the comfort of a saloon, the laid-back style of a convertible, and the practical versatility of a pick-up - all at the same time - it demonstrates Citroën's ability to move beyond the contradictions inherent to existing vehicles and to respond to changes in the needs, requirements and tastes of the public.

The new
Citroën Berlingo HDi

In October 1999, Citroën is launching the Berlingo HDi 90 bhp, a vehicle equipped with a high-pressure direct injection (HDi) engine using common rail technology. With this new generation of diesel engines, Citroën consolidates its position among the leaders in this field. The Berlingo is the latest vehicle to be equipped with this new technology, after the Evasion and Xantia HDi 110 bhp and the Xsara and Xantia HDi 90 bhp.

The arrival of the HDi engine is the second major upgrade in the Berlingo range in recent months, following the sliding side door. The new powerplant enhances the versatility and driving pleasure of the Berlingo and improves the balance between diesel and petrol models in terms of power and performance. Even more than before, the Berlingo satisfies the wide-ranging requirements of a diversified customer base looking for a new automotive offering.

The Berlingo HDi 90 bhp engine meets three main objectives: significantly lower consumption than traditional diesels, environmental protection through reduced CO2 emissions, driving comfort with more power and torque, notably at low engine speeds, and improved acoustic comfort.

The Berlingo HDi is a turbocharged engine with capacity of 1,997 cm3, developing 66 kW (90 bhp) at 4,000 rpm, with torque of 205 Nm (21.4 m.kg) at 1,900 rpm.. The high torque available from low engine speeds is one of the main characteristics of this engine. The Berlingo HDi supplies torque of 125 Nm or 13 m.kg from 1,000 rpm, i.e. more than 60% of maximum torque. Between, 1,250 and 3,750 rpm, at least 80% of the maximum torque is available. As a result, the engine is quick to respond in all circumstances, for improved safety and driving pleasure.

Combined cycle consumption is 5.5 litres per 100 km - significantly less than traditional diesels. On the open road, the Berlingo HDi has a range of more than 1,000 km. High-quality combustion and consumption control bring a significant reduction in pollutant emissions for improved environmental protection. Emissions of CO2, the main greenhouse gas, are just 147 grams per kilometre.

The Berlingo HDi 90 bhp is available in three levels of trim: Multispace, Multispace Open Top and SX. The range comprises fourteen models, of which one is equipped with a doughnut-shaped tank and safety valve to run on LPG (fiscal rating 5 bhp). The Berlingo utility vehicle range is to gain two new HDi models at the end of the year, taking the total number of vehicles to thirteen. The Berlingo Electric is now equipped as standard with a sliding side door.

Considerable potential for progress

The HDi engine offers considerable potential for progress in terms of its performance and its ability to satisfy future pollution control standards. Second-generation common rail engines will increase the maximum injection pressure from 1,350 bars to 1,600 bars. Moreover, the HDi system is electronically controlled and can therefore perform post-injection, a function that will be vital to the operation of tomorrow's high-performance after-treatment systems.

Driving pleasure, comfort and convenience

This new engine enhances the recognised qualities of the Berlingo in terms of comfort, space, safety and driving pleasure. The flexibility and power of the Berlingo HDi make it particularly enjoyable to drive in all circumstances: the responsive engine suits all driving styles, and acoustics are particularly good. Taking the wheel is a stress-free experience, since the Berlingo HDi is able to accelerate in traffic, manage low engine speeds, and maintain the pace whatever the number of passengers or quantity of luggage carried. The Berlingo thus consolidates its position as the reference for this new type of vehicle. The HDi engine gives new edge to the characteristics that have always made this vehicle original. Even more than before, the Berlingo will appeal to young, active customers with families, looking for a keenly priced multi-purpose vehicle with a good size/volume ratio.

The acoustic performance is particularly good, owing to the design of the engine, (ribbed walls, reduced friction and lightweight moving parts), and to the sophisticated common-rail technology in which a pre-injection of fuel reduces combustion noise in the passenger compartment.

The recent addition of the sliding side door spotlights the generous space available at the rear, which can take three people in comfort. To make the most of this improved accessibility, the rear seat of the Berlingo has been pushed back by 80 mm and raised by 50 mm, giving passengers exceptional leg room and visibility. Moreover, the Berlingo combines global comfort with modular design: 60/40 split fold rear seat, generous stowage, a substantial load volume and adapted equipment.

New features make life on-board even more enjoyable than before. The Berlingo offers two new car radios with a cassette or CD player. Styling is integrated with the passenger compartment and performance is increased by four or six loudspeakers. Air conditioning is improved by means of two new ducts directed towards the rear of the car at floor level. On the last two ventilation speeds, moreover, part of the air is recycled automatically for faster heating.

A global approach to safety

Like other Citroën vehicles, the Berlingo adopts a global approach to safety. Every effort is made to prevent accidents, wherever possible, and to provide maximum protection for occupants should impact occur. The stiff frame of the passenger compartment forms a protective cell. The structure is reinforced by a hoop running round the passenger compartment. Complementing the protection provided by the roll hoop, the front doors are fitted with steel reinforcements.

The 60/40 rear seat is fitted with three three-point safety belts and Isofix anchor points in the centre and on the right for two child-seats. The Berlingo will be fitted with new headrests from November 1999 to improve protection and comfort. They are larger at the front to protect the head more effectively, and retractable at the back for improved visibility. When they are in position, they are the same height as the existing headrests.

To further improve the handling of the Berlingo, the models with the HDi engine are fitted with a decreasing flow power-assisted steering pump and - as an option- the latest generation ABS with an electronic brake effort proportioning system.

Berlingo in figures

The Citroën Berlingo is assembled in four production plants: Vigo in Spain, Mangualde in Portugal, Palomar in Argentina et Nysa in Poland.

More then 315,000 units have been produced since the vehicle was launched in 1996. Of this total, 79% were diesel and 70% were for export.

The Berlingo is sold in more than 70 countries around the world. A total

90,880 units were registered in 1998 in Western Europe (17 countries - 16 markets) compared with 81,930 en 1997, i.e. a jump of almost 11%. This increase gathered pace in the first half of 1999 with 56,226 new registrations, i.e. an increase of more than 15%. For the Berlingo 5-seater alone, sales jumped by more than 40% in Western Europe and by 117% in France, following the arrival of the sliding side door, which received a warm welcome from customers.

The Citroën C6 Lignage

Unveiled at the last Geneva Motor Show, the C6 Lignage concept car shows what form a future top-of-the range vehicle might take, in terms of architecture and looks.

At the 1998 Paris Motor Show and the 1999 Geneva Motor Show, Citroën displayed a modern and complete range (Saxo, Xsara, Xantia, Xm, Evasion and Berlingo), while also pursuing new ideas highlighting the Marque's lively creativity. The public gave an enthusiastic welcome to the C6 Lignage and the C3.

An essential car - attractive, practical, reassuring, accessible and versatile - the C3 was devised by Citroën for its B segment range.

With the Xsara Picasso, a compact people-carrier scheduled to arrive on the market at the end of this year, Citroën expresses its capacity for innovation through a new automotive architecture. The Xsara Picasso expresses the determination of the Marque to broaden its offering in response to the new requirements of motorists.

In a different segment of the market, the C6 Lignage concept illustrates the same approach: an original and inventive marque, respecting the tradition in which it was founded, seeking to bring customers a wide choice of cars.

The name C6 Lignage reflects Citroën's determination for the new car to become one of the Marque's greats. Almost 70 years ago, between 1928 and 1933, the C6 dominated the category of top-of-the-range vehicles of the period, with more than 60,000 examples sold. Many celebrities owned one. The C6 was the first in a long line of great Citroën saloons. C6 Lignage has adopted the motto of its illustrious ancestor: make intelligent innovations in architecture and technology, while promoting well-being and safety.

With the exploratory concept of C6 Lignage, Citroën sets out an original approach to a top-of-the range vehicle for the future. C6 Lignage illustrates an ambition of considerable importance to the Marque: to refuse comprise and to combine different sources of inspiration.

Designed by Citroën's Creative Styling Centre, C6 Lignage expresses the Marque's creative talent and its ability to develop new ideas. C6 Lignage expresses a new approach to ongoing efforts to combine exceptional roadholding with the art on-board living. An enlightened application of the Marque's architectural principles, C6 Lignage is dedicated to wide open spaces. A touring vehicle, C6 Lignage is designed to cover long distances. Inside the vehicle, men and women travel in comfort and safety, enjoying the well-being offered by their surroundings.

The purpose of the C6 Lignage is immediately perceptible to the onlooker, expressed through its proportions and style. With its subtle, fluid lines, it appears poised for action. The profile reflects efforts to optimise aerodynamics. The long front overhang (1.09 m) and short rear express, movement, strength and latent power. Set apart from the roof pillars, the boot blends in with the overall fluidity of the design lines.

The interior space of C6 Lignage is more than generous, as indicated by the 3 metre wheelbase. Space is considered to be essential to on-board well-being. The four occupants have individual seats, which can be adjusted to enjoy all the options of life on board.

The interior of the C6 Lignage is luxurious. High-quality materials, such as leather and wood in attractive, matching shades, create a warm and relaxing atmosphere. The pure airy forms of the front and rear central consoles reinforce the friendly atmosphere of the interior, while providing individual space for each occupant.

Passengers in the rear are not forgotten. Relaxing in their comfortable seats, they can watch television, see a film, hook up to their office computer, log onto the Internet or simply read or sleep. The functionalities offered by the Xm Multimedia (presented at the Paris Motor Show) give an idea of the possibilities offered by the C6 Lignage.

The time and thought given to the aerodynamics, perceptible in the smallest detail, serve to reduce fuel consumption and thus pollutant emissions. For example, conventional rearview mirrors are replaced by cameras, the windscreen wipers are streamlined and the radiator grille will have mobile fins, managed electronically according to vehicle speed.

C6 Lignage dedicated to one main idea: well-being. Its generous forms reflect its strength, an expression of an exceptional vehicle.

The Citroën Xsara Picasso: Ready for production

Unveiled at the 1998 Paris Motor Show, the Citroën Xsara Picasso owes its exterior and interior styling to the marque's Creative Styling Centre. Reflecting new concepts in style, ergonomics and practicality the Xsara Picasso is spacious, user-friendly and versatile. A single-volume vehicle at the front with the continuous line of the windscreen and bonnet, the Xsara Picasso is a hatchback at the rear with its raked rear window. The morphology of the vehicle makes it a first in the world of automotive design.

The dimensions of the Xsara Picasso place it squarely in the family of compact vehicles, but the interior is exceptionally user-friendly and spacious as a result of the vehicle's astonishing proportions. Its overall length (4.27 metres) places it between the Xsara and the Xantia, while its height (1.63 m) places it between the Xantia and the Evasion. The width is 1.75 m. With its interior space and generous wheelbase of 2.76 m, the Xsara Picasso offers five real seats (the three at the rear being of identical size) and a vast boot of 550 dm3, i.e. a loading capacity equivalent to that of an estate in the M2 segment.

The range is based on a single level of trim and three powerplants: two petrol (1.6i and 1.8i 16V) developing 65 kW (90 bhp) and 85 kW (115 bhp) respectively, and a diesel 2.0 HDi engine developing 66 kW (90 bhp). Like the Marque's other passenger vehicles, the Xsara Picasso carries a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and a 3-year paint warranty.

The name Xsara Picasso, surprises and catches the imagination.. One of the greatest artists of this century, Citroën Xsara Picasso broke with accepted conventions to share his personal vision of the world. It was therefore natural for an original and inventive marque such as Citroën, a marque with a worldwide reputation as an innovator, renowned for its ability to design cars with a difference, to associate the name of Xsara Picasso with the first Citroën car of the third millennium.

Responding to customer requirements, the Citroën Xsara Picasso combines the versatile and modular practicality of an all-purpose vehicle with the looks, safety, robust design and driving pleasure of a saloon. The Xsara Picasso combines the qualities of several automotive families. It can be compared to a saloon, an estate, a people-carrier and even a cabriolet when it is equipped with a large sunroof extending back over the second row of seats.

The vehicle is designed to offer a living area in which the well-being of all occupants is taken into account. The spacious and modular interior, the three rear seats, the flat floor forming a walkway and the generous stowage space illustrate Citroën's determination to make life on board a pleasurable experience. The height of the driving position - mid-way between a saloon and a people-carrier - is a major improvement. The vehicle is designed to make everyday tasks easy. Moreover, the Xsara Picasso is equipped with a wealth of features to make sure that children travel in comfort (aircraft-style trays) and safety (Isofix seats).

The vehicle is designed to combine driving pleasure and comfort with a high level of safety. The multiplexed electrical architecture offers a number of new functions including smart front and rear windscreen wipers and controlled interior and exterior lighting. It also rationalises the electrical equipment for increased reliability and simplifies repairability through improved diagnostics.

The Xsara Picasso offers a generous level of equipment for the safety and comfort of vehicle occupants. In terms of safety, it is equipped as standard with twin front airbags (the passenger airbag can be deactivated) and twin side airbags to protect the head and thorax, front seatbelts with force limiters and pyrotechnic pretensioners, ABS, Isofix fixings to attach child-seats to the front passenger seat or the rear side seats, a transponder, and wide-field rearview mirrors among other features.

In terms of comfort, the Xsara Picasso is equipped with variable power steering, electric front windows with one-touch control and an anti-nipping device on the driver's side, two electric, defrosting rearview mirrors, central locking with HF control, an onboard computer and height-adjustable driver's seat and steering wheel.

To meet customer requirements, the Citroën Xsara Picasso provides generous stowage space and focuses on a host of "minor" details that simplify everyday use: an indicator on the instrument cluster to show whether the child safety lock has been activated; warning signals to indicate a risk of black ice or inform the driver that the key has been left in the ignition, the doors are open or that he is travelling too fast; doors designed to open in three positions, an indicator showing the distance to be covered before the next scheduled maintenance operation, automatic locking if the driver forgets, a driver's footrest, and a car radio with automatic volume adjustment and fingertip controls.

The Xsara Picasso was developed within the framework laid down by Citroën's Product Development Charter. The project took 151 weeks and involved an investment of FF 1.9 billion of which FF 1 billion in development costs (design, quality, tests, prototypes, process engineering). The Xsara Picasso is scheduled to arrive on the market at the end of 1999. It will be assembled at the Vigo plant in Spain and, in the longer term, at the Porto Real plant in Brazil.

For further information please
e-Mail Miles Williams - General Manager on
100250.3324@compuserve.com

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