28th September 2000
 CITROËN AT THE PARIS
INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW
Scroll down or click headings on this list to jump to story
details
 A new
concept presented by Citroën at the 2000 Paris Motor Show, Osmose is a
symbol of user-friendly vehicle design. It reflects the Marque's continuous
efforts to invent the future, and to break new ground in vehicle
studies.
The objective is not only to develop a new
vehicle concept, but also to address the broader issue of a more responsible
mode of usage, open to the outside world, and reflecting the interchangeability
of the status of pedestrian and the status of motorist.
With the development of Osmose, a passenger car
initiating a new form of relations between pedestrians and motorists,
Citroën aims to meet this objective and to satisfy all its customer in all
circumstances, be they on foot or behind the wheel.
Reconciling diverging interests, Osmose sets up
a two-way exchange between pedestrians and motorists. In this way, mobility is
shared by people who in theory have nothing in common apart from the fact that
they happen to be going in the same direction. A natural and fair exchange that
respects individual privacy.
Osmose, giving new meaning to
the concept of car sharing...
Osmose can carry
three people with luggage in the front part, while the rear part can be
transformed to accommodate a further two.
The driver can use the right-hand side panel of
the vehicle to inform passers-by that he is willing to take passengers and
state his destination. If pedestrians see a stationary Osmose, they can attract
the attention of the driver or - alternatively - they can use a WAP phone to
contact the nearest Osmose travelling to their destination.
The vehicle locates the call, and the driver
can send back a message of confirmation giving his registration
number.
 Osmose is equipped
with a camera-operated retrovision system, transmitting information to the
screen in the centre of the steering wheel. The screen also provides traffic
information and data concerning the on-board "guests".
Before getting on, the pedestrian activates a
control function located on the chevrons at the rear of the vehicle. This lets
the driver know that somebody is getting on. The tailgate of the Osmose then
slides towards the vehicle interior to reveal the rearward facing rear seat -
with room for two people - normally stored in the tailgate.
An on-board communication system (audio and
video) lets the driver and guests hold a conversation during the journey.
Before getting out of the vehicle, the passenger can exchange a "virtual
handshake" with the host by means of a control function inside the rear
compartment. This symbol will then be displayed at the centre of the steering
wheel at the same time.
Osmose is powered by a hybrid system designed
to offer excellent range and to protect the environment with its all-electric
Zero Emission Vehicle mode. ZEV mode is used notably for driving through
restricted access areas in city centres.
Osmose also helps to improve the quality of
ambient air. A filter running on solar energy regenerates the air sucked in
before discharging it into the atmosphere. Osmose helps the city to breathe.
...for the well-being of
the driver and pedestrians
Osmose features quiet, harmonious styling.
The car is compact and easy to handle with a height (1.70 m) that suggests a
friendly, welcoming character.
The vehicle is fitted with two sliding side
doors and a tailgate sliding towards the interior to make room for two guests.
The interior design places the focus on nature, with a colour scheme in green
and brown and a leaf print on the translucent roof that throws shadows onto the
floor of the vehicle. These leaf forms are actually sun sensors, used to power
the filter that recycles the air intake.
 The original and ergonomic layout of the driver's station reflects
the use of new technology and electrical control systems (steering, brakes,
accelerator, etc.). The driver's seat is located in the middle, with the two
folding passenger seats placed slightly back on either side. The centre of the
steering wheel is an information display area. It continues to function even
when the wheel is turned. The driver's seat is fixed; it is the pedal assembly
and wheel that adapt to the body shape of the user to ensure a clear field of
vision.
With its onboard radar system Osmose is able to
anticipate a collision with a pedestrian. Nevertheless, in the event of impact,
external airbags placed at the front and rear of the vehicle help to protect
the pedestrian.
Osmose is particularly well suited to urban
lifestyles and urban travelling. It heralds a new age in the relations between
man and the car.
Return to the top of this page
New 1.6i
16V engine for Berlingo
The Berlingo is gaining a new 1.6i 16V engine.
The new unit, which develops 110 bhp, will be available on the Berlingo
Multispace and SX from December 2000.
The Berlingo sets class-beating standards of
performance and driving pleasure with this engine, which is also available on
the new Xsara. With capacity of 1,587 cm3, the engine develops 80 kW (110 bhp)
at 5,750 rpm with torque of 147 Nm (15.3 m.kg) at 4,000 rpm.
The engine is designed to keep consumption down
to particularly low levels. In a combined cycle, consumption totals 7.8 litres
per 100 km with CO2 emissions of just 184 g/km.
The new powerplant satisfies Euro 3 standards
and features an European On Board Diagnostic (EOBD) system to detect and inform
the driver of any infringement authorised emission levels.
The TU5JP4 engine is based on the TU family of
engines, but the top part has been completely redesigned with:
- new intake distributor ducts;
- intake valves of increased diameter;
- new exhaust manifold ducts;
- an electronic throttle and sequential
injection;
- an ecological oil filter that can be
changed without the oil running out. The filtering part can be
recycled;
- a catalyst located just after the exhaust
manifold in order to be rapidly operational.
The French fiscal rating is 7.
Berlingo 1.6i 16V
Performance
(DIN half-load)
0 - 400 m (s) 19.0
0 - 1,000 m (s) 34.9
0 to 100
km/h (s) 13.1
Top speed (km/h)
170
These results are calculated values, homologation
of the official values is pending
Consumption
(l/100 km)
Urban 10.2
Extra-urban 6.3
Combined
7.8
CO2 emissions (g/km)
184
These results are calculated values, homologation
of the official values is pending
Return to the top of this page
Xsara
Dynactive
New technology for the new
century
The Xsara Dynactive is a parallel hybrid
vehicle that respects the environment...
...and also the well-being of its
occupants.
The Xsara Dynactive is a logical step forward
in the approach adopted by Citroën in recent years. The Marque's objective
is to develop - for each type of customer usage - a vehicle that is both
environment-friendly and efficient. With the all-electric vehicles already on
the market (Saxo, Berlingo commercial vehicle), the hybrid vehicles (Xsara
Dynalto, Saxo and Berlingo Dynavolt), and now with the Xsara Dynactive,
Citroën is developing a range of realistic solutions that protect the
environment while also meeting the requirements of motorists.
The electric variants of the Saxo and Berlingo
commercial vehicle are designed to respect the urban environment with a range
of 80 km and no CO2 emissions.
The Berlingo Dynavolt combines the advantages
of an all-electric vehicle with an impressive range of 260 km, 80 km in ZEV
mode, and a reduction in CO2 emissions of between 25% and 100% depending on the
type of use. The Xsara Dynalto could be put into production in the very near
future. It heralds a new form of driving comfort with a 20% decrease in CO2
emissions in the city.
The Xsara Dynactive combines driving pleasure
and environmental protection. At the same time, it sets high standards of
performance with a 35% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, a range
of 1,000 km and excellent ecological performance with no pollutant emissions
and no noise in electric mode.
The Xsara Dynactive explores new possibilities
in parallel hybrid design.
Based on the new Xsara Exclusive estate, the
Xsara Dynactive is equipped with a 55 kW (75 bhp) combustion engine and a 25 kW
(34 bhp) electric motor coupled on the same shaft, upstream of the autoactive
automatic gearbox. In this configuration, the electric motor can work with the
gear ratios to play a full role in all phases of driving. The electronic
supervisor optimises the use of each powertrain component in order to reduce
fuel consumption, limit CO2 emissions and enhance driving
pleasure.
The Xsara Dynactive can function in ZEV (Zero
Emission Vehicle) mode. In this mode of operation, it produces no pollutant
emissions and makes no noise, since it uses the electric motor alone. The Xsara
Dynactive has an original powertrain architecture that makes ZEV mode
particularly effective in the city. ZEV mode is activated by setting a switch
on the automat-ic gearbox to a specific position. The range is 20
km.
The Xsara Dynactive combines consumption,
performance and respect for the environment.
Energy efficiency is optimised:
- The combustion engine is used only when it
offers a higher level of efficiency. Otherwise, the electric motor
automatically takes over.
- The combustion engine cuts out
automatically when it is no longer needed, at traffic lights or in traffic
jams, for example. And it starts up again automatically when the traffic starts
moving.
- Energy is recovered during the deceleration
phase. The Xsara Dynactive automatically modifies the operation of the electric
motor, which becomes a generator. Instead of drawing energy from the battery,
it recharges it. Since the use of the electric motor is limited by the energy
available in the battery, regeneration takes place automatically when the
impact is least penalizing for the driver.
A multifunction screen on the central console
shows the flow of energy between the wheels, powerplants and battery in real
time. In ZEV mode, the screen shows the range.
The Xsara Dynactive is equipped with an
electronic supervisor controlling the engines and transmission on the basis of
five possible modes:
- traction provided by the combustion engine
and electric motor together;
- traction provided by the combustion engine
alone, with the electric motor off;
- traction provided by the combustion engine,
which also recharges the battery; the electric motor is in generator mode;
- traction provided by the electric motor
alone, with the combustion engine off (ZEV mode);
- deceleration, descent: energy is recovered
by the electric motor in generator mode (battery recharge).
By combining the Autoactive gearbox with a
hybrid powerplant, Citroën has made fresh progress towards
"made-to-measure" driving comfort. The information on driving style detected by
the gearbox affects not only the gear shifts, but also the operating variants
of the hybrid powertrain. The Xsara Dynactive allies new technology with
volume-produced components of proven reliability and moderate cost: the TU
engine and the Autoactive gearbox. Working in synergy, these components provide
a unique range of services.
The Xsara Dynactive provides the link between
the individual pursuit of driving pleasure and the collective pursuit of
environmental protection. Its smooth performance and excellent range bring the
driver peace of mind, while its low emissions and ZEV mode ensure that it fits
in with its living environment.
Characteristics of the
Xsara Dynactive
Developed by the research division using
digital simulation techniques, the electronic management system is the real
nerve centre of the Xsara Dynactive.
The supervisor initiates a dialogue and
controls the computers installed on other parts such as the engines, automatic
gearbox and battery.
The 1.4i petrol combustion engine (TU3JP) is a
modified version of the unit currently fitted on the Xsara. The two main
changes concern the fitting of an electronic throttle and the development of a
new computer programme that sets up a dialogue with the supervisor and executes
its orders. Controlled by the electronic unit on the automatic gearbox, the
engine is coupled with a wet clutch.
Offering a capacity of 1,360 cm3, it develops
55 kW (75 bhp) at 5,500 rpm with torque of 111 Nm (11.5 m.kg) at 3,400
rpm.
The engine incorporates the recent upgrades
made to the TU range to reduce consumption and improve driving pleasure,
notably a new combustion chamber, roller-type rocker arms and new
injectors.
The electric motor is fitted between the
combustion engine and the automatic gearbox (in the space normally occupied by
the converter). Integral with the primary shaft and measuring 70 mm in width,
it is a permanent magnet synchronous motor.
The maximum power is 25 kW (34 bhp) between
2,000 and 6,000 rpm for minimum voltage of 140 V. It offers maximum torque of
130 Nm between 0 and 2,000 rpm.
The electric motor provides traction, recovers
energy and recharges the battery. In the long term, it will start up the
combustion engine.
The self-adapting qualities and flexibility of
the Autoactive automatic gearbox made it a natural choice for the powertrain of
the Xsara Dynactive. The programming laws of the electronic controller have
been modified to satisfy the specific operating requirements of the combustion
engine and electric motor. To fit the electric motor and clutch into the
housing, the automatic gearbox has gained:
- a new intermediate housing
- a new primary shaft
- a wet clutch replacing the converter
- an electrically driven oil pump.
The power battery supplying the electric motor
is made up of fourteen 12 V monoblock units, for a nominal output voltage of
168 V. The traction battery is located at the rear of the vehicle under the
floor.
The fascia of the Xsara Dynactive is fitted
with a multifunction screen showing the energy flows generated by the different
types of vehicle use.
The modified gear shift comprises five
positions, displayed on the instrument cluster:
- P: parking
- R: reverse
- N: neutral
- D: drive
- ZEV: electric mode (Zero Emission
Vehicle)
The Xsara Dynactive also has the following
distinctive characteristics:
- a 12 V battery for on-board functions,
powered by a high-voltage/low-voltage converter,
- an inverter transforming direct current
into alternate current for the electric motor.
The kerb weight is 1,450 kg for the prototype
with a long-term objective of 1,300 kg.
Xsara
Dynactive
Performance
(DIN half-load)
0 - 400 m (s) 18.6
0 - 1,000 m (s) 33.7
0
to 100 km/h (s) 12.6
Top speed (km/h)
170
Acceleration 80 to 120 km/h (s)
11.3
Consumption
(CEN 93116 cycle)
Combined (l/100km) 5.2
CO2 emissions (g/km) 124
Return to the top of this page
Evasion
New
2.0 HDi 16V engine
In October of this year, Citroën is
bringing out the Evasion 2.0 HDi, equipped with a new direct-injection high
pressure 16 valve diesel engine. The objective is twofold: to satisfy the Euro
3 pollution standard and to boost vehicle performance.
The new engine is based on the 2.0 HDi unit and
offers the same level of power - 80 kW developing 110 bhp at 4,000 rpm - but
maximum torque is 8% higher: 270 Nm at 1,750 rpm with a "rounder" curve at low
engine speeds. This naturally makes the engine more responsive. It gains 1.5
seconds when accelerating in 5th gear from 80 to 120 km/h.
The main engine upgrades concern the adoption
of two camshafts, four valves per cylinder and an air intake distributor
setting up a "variable swirl". The "variable swirl" system optimises the
swirling action inside the combustion chamber to improve combustion and strike
an effective balance between performance and pollutant
emissions.
The distributor comprises a helical port,
enabling the formation of swirl, and a tangential port, setting up an axial
flow. The tangential port is closed by a valve whose operation depends on the
engine speed and injection rate.
At low engine speeds, the excellent air/fuel
mix set up by the swirl reduces the formation of particles.
At higher engine speeds, the helical port and
tangential port reduce swirl in order to fill the combustion chamber to the
maximum level.
The valve recesses, cavities and central dome
of the pistons are designed to facilitate gas swirl. The injectors, positioned
in the centre of the chamber, ensure homogenous pulverisation of the
fuel.
Evasion 2.0 HDi
16V
Performance
(DIN half-load)
0 - 400 m (s) 19.7
0 - 1,000 m (s) 36.5 0 to
100 km/h (s) 15.2
Acceleration from 80 to 120
km/h in 5th (s) 14.5
Top speed (km/h)
175
Consumption
(l/100 km)
Urban 8.8
Extra-urban 5.9
Combined
6.9
CO2 emissions (g/km)
184
Return to the top of this page
3RD
GENERATION HYDRACTIVE
Innovation
in suspension
Citroën has always been a pioneer in terms
of striking a balance between roadholding and comfort. In 1989, the
Citroën XM was the world's first production vehicle to be fitted with
intelligent hydraulic suspension.
Named Hydractive suspension, the system adapted
automatically to the road and to the driver. Soft or firm as required, with
variable springing and damping, it combined comfort and driving pleasure with
excellent roadholding. The suspension was anaged by a computer receiving
information from five sensors. The driver could activate a command on the
central console (not managed by the computer) in order to keep the suspension
firm ("sport" mode).
In 1993, the Xantia was equipped with
Hydractive II. The second-generation version had triple the computing power of
its predecessor. With Hydractive II, the driver was able to modify the rules
governing the automatic changeover from one mode to the other. This changeover
could be made according to two strategies and no longer just one, as on the
first Hydractive system. The driver could select:
- the automatic "comfort" position for a
smooth ride,
- the automatic "sport" position managed by
the computer for a sportier and more dynamic ride.
With 3rd Generation Hydractive, Citroën
has once more proved its commitment to bringing customers the benefits of the
Marque's cutting-edge technology in running gear design. Combining the latest
developments in electronics with a revised and simplified hydraulic
architecture, 3rd Generation Hydractive is the most comfortable, reliable and
efficient suspension system around. With its "auto-adaptive" capabilities, it
is able to make a precise analysis of road conditions and the driver's style,
adapting vehicle height to the state of the road and the current
speed.
This new suspension comprises:
- a built-in hydroelectronic interface (BHI)
at the heart of the system,
- four carrier elements with new-technology
suspension spheres for exceptional durability,
- front and rear stiffness regulators with
sphere,
- electric height sensors linked to the
anti-roll bars,
- a simplified hydraulic network with
new-generation connections.
The new auto-adaptive suspension is able make a
precise analysis of the state of the road and current driving conditions thanks
to new electronic sensors linked by the multiplexed network to a built-in
systems interface (BSI) with considerable computing power.
3rd Generation Hydractive suspension gives the
driver a choice between two settings: comfort and sport. Designed to provide
independent, intelligent control of each mode, the system automatically adjusts
springing and damping at the same time. The control system is designed to
switch in real time from a soft mode, with the emphasis on comfort, to a firm
mode, with the emphasis on roadholding, according to road conditions and the
driver's style. Through an analysis of the driver's style, the system is able
to customise the changeover from one mode to the other to strike a perfect
balance between comfort and roadholding. The driver can also activate the
sports setting manually in order to switch more frequently to a firm suspension
and thus place the emphasis on sporting performance.
This new suspension features an innovative
function: the height of the vehicle varies automatically according to its
speed. This function enhances stability by lowering the centre of gravity (by
15 mm at the front and 11 mm at the rear) and reducing fuel consumption by
improving Cd. On badly damaged road surfaces, 3rd Generation Hydractive can
increase vehicle height by 13 mm. The driver can also modify clearance manually
by means of an electronic push button.
The fluidity of the new synthetic hydraulic
fluid reduces friction and so brings further improvements in comfort. A system
of innovative design, 3rd Generation Hydractive requires no maintenance for the
first five years or 200,000 km. During this period, the suspension system
maintains the same high levels of comfort and safety.
3rd Generation Hydractive is uncompromising in
its quest for superlative roadholding and comfort.
Return to the top of this page
Citroën
invents the MODUTOP on the Berlingo
 Presented on the Berlingo at the
2000 Paris Motor Show, the new Modutop roof concept highlights the
user-friendly character of the Berlingo and its ability to innovate. Offering a
host of new functionalities, the Modutop roof aims to make life on board even
more enjoyable for passengers. The Modutop brings the vehicle's occupants new,
easily accessible storage compartments of ingenious design, an excellent
loading capacity, a wide range of comfort functions (ventilation, interior
lighting, etc.) and a large glazed area.
The Modutop will make its market debut in
January 2001, on the Berlingo Multispace and SX.
Traveller's
joy
The style, architecture and colour (ivory)
of the Modutop are inspired by the techniques used to design the interior
layout of aircraft. The components offer a perfect fit with the vehicle
interior. The roof is both light (30 kg) and resistant. Its architecture and
robust design optimise safety for all the occupants of the
vehicle.
 The Modutop's
storage compartments offer an extra 100 litres of space in addition to the
capacity already available on the Berlingo. The roof comprises one lengthwise
storage compartment, whose edges are designed to prevent objects falling out,
one crosswise compartment, two crosswise boxes, two side bins, a niche for the
air recycling system, a removable central box at the rear with two locks,
loudspeaker positions, a CD/cassette holder and a credit-card/pen holder. The
Modutop is also designed to maintain the headroom available to
occupants.
On the outside, the Modutop has two built-in,
pivoting, removable roof bars. Positioned lengthwise, the bars can be used to
anchor such items as suitcases and trunks. Positioned crosswise, they can be
used to attach large objects, for example, bikes, skis or surfboards. They are
easy both to handle and to set up. The maximum load on the two crosswise roof
bars is 70 kg.
A roof for all
tastes
With Modutop, passengers choose their
own travelling conditions: each occupant has a pleasant living area with a
window, an air vent and a stowage compartment allow-ing him to organise his
journey to suit. Reflecting the character of the Berlingo as a family vehicle,
the Modutop provides a living area for children in the rear. Each side box is
fitted with a 12 V socket to plug in accessories such as games consoles and
portable CD drives.
Ventilation is provided at the rear by three
nozzles with a flow rate of 125 m3/h.
Bright and
airy
The vast glazed area (five large,
rectangular windows) and tinted glass let in the light while keeping the heat
out. For night driving, the roof has two lights (including a double spot light)
at the front and two double spot lights at the rear. The two lights in the load
area illuminate not just the load area, but also the removable box on the
Modutop.
Citroen
Pluriel
The modular car
Unveiled at the last Frankfurt Motor Show, the
Pluriel illustrates the broad styling principles of a versatile, modular car
that will take its place in the Citroën range in the
future.
The multi-faceted Pluriel is the result of
Citroën innovation and research studies into new automotive concepts. It
does not fit into any of the traditional vehicle categories. A vehicle of
significant interior and - more particularly - exterior modularity, the 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, the 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 requirements
of the user.
When the large material sunroof is in the
closed position, the Pluriel takes the form of 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 can be easily removed thanks to a user-friendly
coupling system. 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, a sliding panel gives easy access to the false floor without
having to empty the boot.
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 in existing vehicles and to respond to
changes in the needs, requirements and tastes of the public.
Pluriel
Main technical
characteristics
Engine 1.4i
Type TU3JP
Number of cylinders
4
Bore - Stroke (mm) 75 x 77
Capacity (cm3) 1,360
Maximum power 55 kW (75 bhp) at 5,500 rpm
Maximum torque 111 Nm (11.5 m.kg) at 3,400 rpm
Gearbox 5-speed
Tyres
PAX (vertically anchored tyre)
Range of 200
km at 80 km/h after a puncture
External
dimensions (mm)
Overall length
3,920
Overall width 1,650
Overall height 1,550
Front overhang 810
Rear overhang
670
Wheelbase 2,440
Return to the top of this page
Auto PC
available on all Xsara models
Accessible to the general public
Following the success of the Xsara Windows CE
limited series, the first volume produced communicating car, Citroën has
decided to make the Auto PC system available to a broad customer base by making
it an option on the Xsara. In this way, the Marque is continuing its policy of
promoting on-board communications systems, an approach initiated some years ago
with the development of the Citroën Evasion Mobile Office, the XM
Multimedia and the Xsara Auto PC.
A technological revolution has taken place in
the automotive industry and Citroën is the first carmaker to bring the
associated benefits into use on a significant part of its range. This
revolution is based on the application of New Information and Communication
Technologies (NICTs) to the automotive industry. Adapted to the car, this
concept brings everybody easy access to information at all times and in all
places.
The result of a partnership with Microsoft
extending over more than three years, the Auto PC is a system of innovative
design.
Vehicles equipped with this system, which runs
under Windows CE, are equipped with a dual-band GSM communication system, a
colour navigation system and a voice recognition system to control the
functions of the information system.
Intended for a broad public, the Citroën
Xsara models equipped with the Auto PC option offer a wide range of services.
The functions supplied by the Auto PC system include a radio, CD drive, address
book, hands-free phone, navigation with a map display, a function to send and
receive messages (SMS, e.mail, etc.), a USB port to connect IT peripherals,
data transfer to and from another portable peripheral, an electronic
dictaphone, traffic information and emergency calls.
A comprehensive technological
offering
The Citroën Xsara models fitted with the
Auto PC are equipped with a PC meeting Iso standards, running under the Windows
CE operating system and featuring a built-in hands-free telephone. The PC is
linked directly to a GPS receiver and 6 CD changer. It is also equipped with a
CD-ROM drive positioned behind a removable panel, which is used to read the
data from the navigation CD and to run other programmes.
Providing remote support for the driver's
information system, the Auto PC system can maintain telematic communications
with other information systems (company, partner, etc.).
A realistic offering in terms
of functions and cost
Progress in miniaturisation and connector
technology has made it possible to produce compact computers able to function
in the complex environment of a car (with such constraints as temperature
variations and vehicle movement on uneven road surfaces).
Similar progress has been made in the areas of
mobile telephony, voice synthesis and voice control, with significant
improvements in quality and continuity of transmission (voice and
data).
Industrial production has kept pace with
technological progress in this area and, as a result, prices have dropped
sharply. On-board communications equipment is now an affordable offering,
comparable with the price of a home PC.
The possibilities for future development are
limited only by our imagination and the telecommunications
infrastructure.
The Auto PC system is open-ended. It can adapt
to new technologies and new applications and improve the performance levels of
the functions already in place.
Windows users can already hook up to the
Internet but only to use the e-mail service. Over the next few years, the
service offering can be expected to expand considerably with the reformatting
of Web sites, new progress in voice interfaces and, above all, the widening of
the passband.
Wireless Internet services (GPRS and later
UMTS) are expected to develop strongly between 2001-2003, and Citroën will
be well placed to take advantage of this new potential. The initial service
offering will advance in leaps and bounds.
With the Auto PC system, Citroën has
positioned itself squarely on the leading edge of technological development in
this field and is establishing one of the market standards.
Equipment characteristics
- TFT high-resolution 8-colour screen (256 x
64)
- Pentium processor 166 32 Mb
- Removable front panel
- IRDA infrared communication port
- USB port for connecting a keyboard, mouse
or printer
- Digital audio adjustment
- Port for compact flash card (data storage
and back-up)
- Microphone for voice recognition
- AM/FM tuner
- Windows CE 2.12 operating system
- Dictaphone
- Use of a Navtech CD-ROM for navigation.
- GPS receiver with 8 satellites accurate to
10 metres
Return to the top of this page
NEW
CITROËN XSARA
Style, Appeal,
Safety
 New exterior styling, additional equipment, an updated engine
offering and increased safety are the hallmarks of the new Xsara coupés,
saloons and estates launched in September 2000.
At the front, the new ribbed bonnet features a
grille with a prominent chevron badge and clear-lens, oblong headlamps,
designed to throw out around 20% more light (low and high beam). The headlamps
also have a fog function on all models.
At the rear, the reprofiled bumper and wings
give the Xsara a harmonised finish. The pushbutton opening on the boot has been
replaced by a handle that is more in keeping with the overall design, while the
new registration plate sports an elegant chevron badge in the centre. The
15-inch wheels and broader front and rear track complete the new exterior
features of the Xsara.
The interior styling of the Xsara places the
focus squarely on driving pleasure and well-being. The new materials used for
the Exclusive, VTR and VTS models and the new trim featured on the X and SX
levels enhance the vehicle's sophisticated, modern styling. From the easily
accessible controls to the new display units and their wealth of useful
information, everything is designed to ensure that occupants feel at
ease.
The Xsara possesses a host of assets in terms
of global safety. ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution guarantee
high-performance braking, while the reinforced passenger compartment with its
four airbags (two front, two side) and two curtain airbags (optional) provides
outstanding protection in the event of impact.
Two new engines make their appearance in the
range:
- the 1.6i 16V (110 bhp), replacing the 1.6i,
1.8i and 1.8i 16.V engines, and
- the 2.0i 16V (137 bhp), offering enhanced
driving pleasure with its power
and excellent torque.
The assets of the Xsara also include a number
of new functions for on-board comfort and well-being. The multiplex electrics
introduce a host of functions that will be much appreciated by drivers, such as
timed low-beam headlamps, automatic adjustment of radio volume and an excess
speed alarm.
The range of options is also extended with new
audio systems featuring remote display, a radiophone, an Auto-PC, a navigation
system and electronic parking assistance.
The Xsara range now comprises 41 models (15
coupés, 13 saloons and 13 estates). It is still structured around three
segments: economy, with the X models, classical elegance, with the SX and
Exclusive, and sport, with the VTR and VTS.
Return to the top of this page
For further information please
e-Mail Miles Williams - General Manager on
100250.3324@compuserve.com
or use our Talk-to-Us button...
Site designed by
InterStellar - ©1998-9 &
2000
 |
AUSTRALIA