Citreon C-Cactus makes its China debut at Beijing auto show

Shanghai, April 22 (Gasgoo.com) Citreon has brought its most eco-friendly hybrid model C-Cactus along with more than 10 other vehicle models to the 2008 Beijing auto show. The simple, elegant, efficient C-Cactus has made its China debut as an all-new concept car of Citreon to promote the French carmaker's future design philosophy.

Unveiled at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the diesel hybrid reveals what the future holds for a low-emission, super-economical C4-sized family car. Beneath the futuristic looks, the C-Cactus houses a 70bhp 1.4-liter HDi hybrid powerplant.  Capable of running almost silently on battery power at low speed, the C-Cactus also has a 30bhp electric motor, which helps the engine at higher speeds for overtaking.  Featuring a diesel particulate filter, the ultra-clean C-Cactus emits only 78g/km of CO2.

The hybrid system's ability to shut down in towns and run solely on electricity makes its fuel economy even more impressive than the emissions. And on the combined cycle, the C-Cactus is said to return an amazing 97.4mpg. It is the first Citroen concept to use the 1.4-liter hybrid.

All features non-essential to the running of the C-Cactus or the comfort of the passengers have been removed. The windows are fixed, as Citroen says the automatic air-conditioning makes it unnecessary for the glass to be opened, although there are simple sliding panes for accessing ticket barriers.

Much of the car is made out of recyclable materials, and the cabin requires only 200 parts, about half that used for an average model. The seats are simple two-piece items, with no dashboard at all.

Citreon's other highlights at the Beijing show are the C2 Kappa, and C4 Picasso and its revamped C-Elysee. The two futuristic models, Citroen C2 Kappa and Citroen C4 Picasso, were also first displayed in China at this event.