Video: PSA Reveals All-New EMP2 Modular Platform

PSA Peugeot-Citroen has just released a video showcasing their all-new modular platform, called the EMP2, which stands for Efficient Modular Platform 2. The French group are planning to use it on a wide range of vehicles, from SUVs to light commercial vehicles, as well as regular hatchbacks, sedans and estates.

It will also be used to underpin the next generation of the Peugeot 308 and Citroen C4, as well as other mainstream models from the C and D segments.

The platform itself is easily modifiable, and can be stretched to fit various purposes, while the use of high-strength steels, composites and aluminium help it shed some 70 kg or 154 lbs over the current platform.

However, in their quest to make one platform fit all models, they have had to compromise. First of all, the idea of having just one platform is a clear cost-cutting exercise, and therefor they could not make it overly-complex, as it would be overkill on some of the cheaper models.

What this means, basically, is that it does`t get independent rear suspension, getting the multilink alternative instead. Now, while some cars with such rear suspension setups are good to drive (some Renaults and a few others), it means that neither handling nor comfort will be class leading.

We also found a plausible-looking rendering of what the next Peugeot 308 may look like, to give you some idea of the cars this new platform will underpin.

News Source:  autoevolution

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Citroen DS3 Cabrio Starts at €17,790 in Germany

The soft-top version of the pretty Citroen DS3 has just received its official price tag, in Germany, where it costs from €17,790. It features a similar system to the one used on the Fiat 500C, and it is not actually a convertible, per se, as all of the pillars are still in place and the same as on the regular model.

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Citroen Lacoste Concept - À tout à l’heures, alligator

Although Citroën cars are not sold in the States, it’s fun to run the occasional picture of what the company is up to. Like this, the Lacoste Concept, aired at a recent “Créative Technologie” showcase on the Champs-Elysées, one of the most famous Parisian streets. Citroën calls it a “back-to-basics vehicle.” If by that the company means no doors, then it suddenly becomes understandable. What’s a little more difficult to tell is whether the car is coming or going, because there’s nothing so mundane as a windshield wiper to give any kind of clue. Ah well, vive la différence.

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The Most Beautiful Car Of All Time - Citroen DS trounces top Ferraris, Jaguars and Lamborghinis

What's the most beautiful car of all time? A multi-million pound Ferrari or the curvy Jaguar E-type perhaps? No, it is now officially Citroen's humble DS, the car most famous for saving President De Gaulle from assassination.

That was the verdict when Classic & Sports Car magazine polled a jury of the world's leading car designers to nominate the most gorgeous cars ever. The 20-strong panel ranged from Car designer of the Century Giorgetto Giugiaro - the man behind the Maserati Bora, VW Golf, Fiat Panda and Lotus Esprit - to current Jaguar director of design Ian Callum, and each picked their top three beauties. Although Ferrari secured the most votes as a marque, they were spread across nine different models, leaving the Citron to scoop the honours as the single most beautiful classic.
We at European Car Magazine demand a recount.

The top 10:

1. Citron DS
2. Jaguar XK120
2. Ferrari 275GTB
4. Cord 810/812
4. Ferrari 250GT Lusso
4. Ferrari 250GT Short-wheelbase
4. Jaguar E-type
4. Lamborghini Miura
4. Lotus Elan
4. Lotus Elite (1957)

James Elliott, editor of Classic & Sports Car, said: "The Citron is a benchmark design, but we were still astonished that it came out on top when you look at the sexiness - and values - of some of its rivals. Apart from the Mini, it's by far the most affordable car to get any nominations at all, which probably means it's a great investment!"

"Petrolheads everywhere are forever arguing about the most beautiful cars and we hope that this will put an end to the debate once and for all, though we suspect that it might just be lighting a rocket under it. I don't think anyone has ever asked this many great designers what their views are, so who better to pick the official winner" even if they all missed my favourite, the Alfa Romeo T33 Stradale?"

"It's great to see the iconic DS getting such recognition amongst such an august group of car designers , and with the amazing news that a new DS range from Citron will appear over the next few years, it's clear we have lost none of our styling panache or instinct for innovation," commented Citron spokesperson Marc Raven on hearing the news.

What they said about the Citron DS Giorgetto Giugiaro: "The only example of a car really conceived `outside the box'. It is just impossible to imitate."

Leonardo Fioravanti (former Pininfarina design chief and the man behind Ferrari's Daytona, Dino and 308GTB): "A real road car that, at its time and perhaps still now, has represented the `dream' in its extreme progress."

Peter Stevens (British great responsible for the McLaren F1 and second-generation Lotus Esprit): "I have always considered the fact that this car was first drawn in 1955 to be extraordinary."
Marcello Gandini (Bertone stalwart responsible for Lancia Stratos and Lamborghini Countach among many others):"At the time I think it was complete folly, madness from a business and industrial point of view - but it was a really innovative car in 1955. A few people may have thought of all those beautiful ideas, but it was real bravery to implement all of them in one car."

A bit about the Citron DSWith its name derived from Desse (French for Goddess), this innovative design was styled by Italian sculptor Flaminio Bertoni and launched in 1955. The futuristic shape was an instant design classic and over the next 20 years more than 1.5 million cars were sold in a range of specifications. But it wasn't just the shape that revolutionised automotive design: the complex self-levelling suspension, plus powered steering, clutch and brakes were otherwordly compared to rival cars of the era.

"While regarded today as a technical masterpiece - and a potential nightmare for the home mechanic - it was of pioneering construction for its day with unitary `tub', bolt on panels and a plastic roof. But the appeal of the DS is as much as a cultural icon as a car with a long list of celebrity owners and fans (Alec Guinness, Peter Cook and Will Self among them), plus regular appearances on film and in design museums and art galleries."

A bit about Classic & Sports CarFounded in 1982, Classic & Sports Car is the UK's market-leading classic car magazine and Britain's third best-selling motoring monthly. The "most beautiful classics" feature coincides with an extensive redesign of the magazine and is accompanied by a free A2 poster featuring Lamborghini Miura and Jaguar E-type, plus the definitive buyers' guide to the Citron DS.

A bit about the panel of designersAs well as choosing their favourite three beauties, the designers also had to nominate the example of their own work that they are most proud of. Here are a few extracts.

On their own designs:Peter Stevens (McLaren F1):"I always intended that the design should be timeless rather than `of the minute', and that is something that I would use as a measure of other designs."

Ian Callum (Jaguar XF):"It is the biggest challenge I've faced, but I think we pulled it off. I don't think people appreciate how well proportioned it is, given that it's a five-seater."

Gordon Murray (McLaren F1): "Designed as a road car, but went on to win Le Mans, which in my opinion is more difficult than F1."

John Heffernan (Aston Martin Vantage): "When I borrowed one, it was much appreciated by 'bikers of the Hells Angels persuasion, which I liked."

Patrick Le Qument (Renault Twingo): "Some love it, some hated it. I wrote to the president of Renault and said: `I think you have to vote for instinctive design rather than extinctive marketing.' He wrote back: `I agree.'

And on other peoples' cars:

Steve Crijns of Lotus on the Ford GT40:

"It's so sexy and has so much presence without really being aggressive."

Paul Bracq, former head of design for both Mercedes and BMW, on the Aston Martin DB9:
"It's more beautiful than the current Ferraris. I don't understand modern Ferrari design: the new California looks like a big VW Karmann-Ghia."

Julian Thomson of Jaguar on the Lamborghini Gallardo:

"I love the proportions" It's a tiny modern interpretation of a supercar: things like the Bugatti Veyron are totally irrelevant to me."

Martin Smith, executive design director of Ford of Europe on the Lamborghini Countach:
"It was like a spaceship, something totally new combining smooth curves with geometric forms. I remember thinking `I'll never be able to do something as good as that!'"
Ian Callum, Jaguar director of design, on the Ferrari 250GT Short-wheelbase:
"A blend of beauty and aggression" I just drool over them, and I can draw them with my eyes closed."

Marcello Gandini on the Cord 810/812:
"It was an impressive design for the 1930s, with solutions that could be seen in cars of 20 years later."

Tom Tjaarda, former head of Ghia's studios, on the Jaguar E-type:
"A gorgeous car. It looks narrow, like a woman in high heels. It doesn't have the stance that cars have today."

The jury
Adams, Dennis
Axe, Roy
Bracq, Paul
Callum, Ian
Carr, Russell
Crijns, Steve
Fioravanti, Leonardo
Gandini, Marcello
Giugiaro, Giorgetto
Heffernan, John
Karen, Tom
Le Qument, Patrick
Martin, Paulo
Murray, Gordon
Okuyama, Ken
Smith, Martin
Stevens, Peter
Thomson, Julian
Tjaarda, Tom
Winterbottom, Oliver
All the cars that received votes:

Alfa Romeo Canguro
Aston Martin DB9
Audi A6
Bentley Continental GT
Bentley R-Type Continental
Bertone BAT 5
Bertone Marzal
BMW 328 Mille Miglia
Bugatti T41 Royale Coup Napoleon
Bugatti T57SC Atlantic
Buick Riviera (1963-'65)
"Cadzilla"
Citron ID/DS
Cord 810/812
Delage D8-120S
Ferrari 166 Barchetta
Ferrari 250GT Lusso
Ferrari 250GT swb
Ferrari 250GTO
Ferrari 275GTB
Ferrari 330 P3/4
Ferrari Dino 206S
Ferrari Dino 246GT
Ferrari P6
Ford GT40
Hispano-Suiza H6 (Tulip Wood)
Jaguar E-type
Jaguar XJ6 S1
Jaguar XK120
Jaguar XKSS
Lagonda Rapide
Lamborghini Countach
Lamborghini Gallardo
Lamborghini Miura
Lancia Stratos
Lincoln Continental (1961)
Lotus Elan +2
Lotus Elan S3
Lotus Elite (1957)
Maserati Boomerang
Maserati Khamsin
Mercedes-Benz 500K
Mercedes-Benz Gullwing 300SL
Mini
Pagaso Z102 `Thrill'
Phantom Corsair
Triumph TR4

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Citroen Hypnos Prepares to Captivate at Paris Motor Show - Web Exclusive

Citron has released more details about the spectacular Hypnos concept as the car makes its world premiere at the prestigious Paris Motor Show. "Beautifully proportioned and boldly styled, Hypnos is a true hybrid in both its technology and appearance. The elegant and distinctive crossover vehicle combines the styling cues of a sporty coup, the serene comfort of a saloon and the practical space of an SUV. At the same time Hypnos is powered by Citron's all-new hybrid drivetrain, HYmotion4, marrying dynamic performance with solid green credentials to give 60+mpg economy despite its 200 horsepower." Citron's Hypnos presents an exciting vision for the future of luxury vehicles with innovative and intelligent technology such as a face-recognition system that adjusts the cabin environment to its occupant's emotions, massaging seats, thermo-sensitive ambient lighting, a faceless clock and diamond-shaped instrument clusters.Eye-catchingly proportioned at 4.90m long, 2.17m wide and 1.58m high, Hypnos's exterior design is characterised by a tautly drawn bonnet line, raised waistline and pronounced wheel arches that house generous 22-inch wheels - a hint at the concept's sophisticated muscle power.

The deep radiant grey of the bodywork, which varies in intensity under different light environments, has an elegant and prestigious sheen, befitting the Hypnos's luxury interior. A `pillarless' roof, appears to `float' suggesting flowing interior space. Rear hinged back doors provide easy entry into the car's enchanting interior, whilst a cargo tailgate gives unrestricted access to the boot, adding practical functionality to underline Hypnos's SUV characteristics.

Stepping inside the cabin, passengers are welcomed into an interior embodying the magical qualities of the concept car and begin an unforgettable sensory adventure. The shimmering interior is adorned with premium materials such as leather and brushed aluminium, helping to make the Hypnos's cabin an environment of exceptional refinement and comfort. The rainbow hues, seen throughout the interior, showcase Citron's creative flair and daring originality - the unconventional application of bright, vibrant colours in an executive vehicle.

The four morphologically-sculpted seats are made up of prism-shaped components and can be inflated and deflated to give occupants upper and lower back massages. The body-hugging seats are positioned either side of a unique central console offering occupants an astonishing amount of personal space, and arranged in a helix configuration that inspires images of a DNA strand - reflecting the Hypnos' design focus on human values.

Passengers can also customise their own space using the pivotal blades of the central helix-shaped console, which includes a range of controls such as the air-conditioning settings.

Hypnos showcases Citron's commitment to making technology more accessible and interactive with a raft of innovative features throughout the cabin including colour therapy for passengers.

The driver's instrument cluster is seen through diamond-like prisms, mounted in metal, with each facet displaying different information. A touch screen is also incorporated into the middle of the console, and air-vents gently diffuse halos of ambient light which varies according to temperature.
A ceiling-mounted camera films the driver's face and regularly measures anthropometric data to gauge emotions and automatically adjusts the cabin lighting and fragrance accordingly for a more bespoke relaxing experience behind the wheel.

Hypnos also features a strikingly original onboard clock designed by the artist Michel Serviteur. The innovative timepiece, which has no needles or digital display, changes colour depending on the light at different times of the day and emits a succession of rhythmic colour pulses like a breathing organism.

Hypnos confirms Citron's respect for the environment with its all-new HYmotion4 diesel hybrid drivetrain. The 4-wheel drive system combines a powerful 200bhp 2.0 HDi DPFS engine and an intelligent 6-speed EGS (Electronic Gearbox System). With the engine driving the front wheels and an axle-mounted electric motor driving the rear wheels, this simple but effective solution shows a possible way ahead for affordable hybrid technology, in line with Citron thinking.

Capable of a 0-60mph time of around 9-seconds and silent, exhaust-free driving in ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode, the Hypnos's efficient system delivers dynamic green performance and driving pleasure with impressive fuel economy of almost 63mpg on the combined cycle and low CO2 emissions at just 120g/km.

When a burst of acceleration is required, Hypnos's boost function kicks in to deliver a combination of torque from both the combustion and electric powerplants without increasing fuel consumption.
For safe and accomplished `green driving', Hypnos is equipped with Stop & Start technology. This intelligent system also powers the electric motor when the vehicle is in 4x4 mode. For improved safety in difficult driving conditions Hypnos instinctively switches to four-wheel drive mode when faced with low grip or intense handling.

With the emphasis of the concept being on driving pleasure, Hypnos delivers a smooth and cosseted ride thanks to Citroen's legendary self-levelling suspension which combines the highest standards of passenger comfort with exceptional road manners.

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2009 Citroen C4 - New Dynamic Styling & New Efficient Engines

Citroen's dynamic C4 range is now more alive with technology than ever before. An exciting new look gives the popular model even more appeal with new exterior and interior styling, updated equipment, body colours and wheel designs, as well as the introduction of two new low CO2, fuel efficient, petrol engines co-developed with BMW. HDi models will also be available with new low-rolling resistance Michelin tyres for improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Changes to the exterior focus on restyling the vehicle's front end, bringing the C4 in line with the prestigious looks of the recently launched C5. Its new bonnet features a more rounded, curvier design, whilst the grille benefits from restyled integrated chevrons. The front bumper has also been revamped and the number plate repositioned for a stronger, sportier, more dynamic look.

The rear lights of the C4 Coupe are now finished in transparent crystal and a choice of three new alloy wheel styles - either 16-inch or 17-inch - as well as two new body colours - Bourrasque and Recif blue are now available. For added elegance, chrome inserts are featured on some models.
In the cabin, the C4 has been improved for enhanced comfort whilst, for greater clarity, the rev counter has been relocated to the innovative translucent central display unit. As with the award-winning C4 Picasso, a plush grain is now featured on the dashboard and doors for a more upmarket feel. New decors have been designed with an improved quality finish whilst the integrated scented air freshener makes the interior smell as good as it looks.

The C4 also retains much of the innovative equipment that made it a standard-setter when it was launched. Drivers can benefit from convenient and reassuring technology such as directional headlamps, front and rear parking assist, lane departure warning system, hill start assist, laminated side windows, speed limiter and cruise control.

The new C4 arrives with all of the safety equipment that made the original C4 such a reassuring car to drive, including the unique to Citron torso shaped driver's airbag that can be incorporated because of the fixed-centre steering wheel. The original C4 achieved some of the highest EuroNCAP ratings in the segment for frontal impact, child protection as well as a 3-star pedestrian safety rating.

Citroen's latest generation navigation system, NaviDrive, has also been introduced, which features a hi-resolution 7-inch colour screen with Europe-wide satellite navigation, real time traffic reports as well as an audio system with built-in 30GB hard drive. The system also offers a video auxiliary socket and a USB connection.

The C4 is now available with two new petrol engines which have been co-developed with the BMW group - the 1.6 16v VTi 120hp and the 1.6 16v THP 150hp. Both units offer the optimum blend of performance, driving pleasure and fuel economy, with significantly lower consumption and CO2 emissions.

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Citroen C4 - New Dynamic Styling & New Efficient Engines

Citron's dynamic C4 range is now more alive with technology than ever before. An exciting new look gives the popular model even more appeal with new exterior and interior styling, updated equipment, body colours and wheel designs, as well as the introduction of two new low CO2, fuel efficient, petrol engines co-developed with BMW. HDi models will also be available with new low-rolling resistance Michelin tyres for improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Changes to the exterior focus on restyling the vehicle's front end, bringing the C4 in line with the prestigious looks of the recently launched C5. Its new bonnet features a more rounded, curvier design, whilst the grille benefits from restyled integrated chevrons. The front bumper has also been revamped and the number plate repositioned for a stronger, sportier, more dynamic look.

The rear lights of the C4 Coupe are now finished in transparent crystal and a choice of three new alloy wheel styles - either 16-inch or 17-inch - as well as two new body colours - Bourrasque and Recif blue are now available. For added elegance, chrome inserts are featured on some models.
In the cabin, the C4 has been improved for enhanced comfort whilst, for greater clarity, the rev counter has been relocated to the innovative translucent central display unit. As with the award-winning C4 Picasso, a plush grain is now featured on the dashboard and doors for a more upmarket feel. New decors have been designed with an improved quality finish whilst the integrated scented air freshener makes the interior smell as good as it looks.

The C4 also retains much of the innovative equipment that made it a standard-setter when it was launched. Drivers can benefit from convenient and reassuring technology such as directional headlamps, front and rear parking assist, lane departure warning system, hill start assist, laminated side windows, speed limiter and cruise control.

The new C4 arrives with all of the safety equipment that made the original C4 such a reassuring car to drive, including the unique to Citron torso shaped driver's airbag that can be incorporated because of the fixed-centre steering wheel. The original C4 achieved some of the highest EuroNCAP ratings in the segment for frontal impact, child protection as well as a 3-star pedestrian safety rating.
Citron's latest generation navigation system, NaviDrive, has also been introduced, which features a hi-resolution 7-inch colour screen with Europe-wide satellite navigation, real time traffic reports as well as an audio system with built-in 30GB hard drive. The system also offers a video auxiliary socket and a USB connection.

The C4 is now available with two new petrol engines which have been co-developed with the BMW group - the 1.6 16v VTi 120hp and the 1.6 16v THP 150hp. Both units offer the optimum blend of performance, driving pleasure and fuel economy, with significantly lower consumption and CO2 emissions.

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