REMARKABLE LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE THAT RESPECT THE
ENVIRONMENT
The intelligent design of C-Métisse combines:
- a diesel hybrid drivetrain
- optimised aerodynamics
- limited weight.
As a result, it is able to combine remarkable levels of
performance with fuel economy and respect for the
environment.
Diesel hybrid technology serving the environment,
driving pleasure and safety
C-Métisse features a diesel hybrid drivetrain
combining:
- a diesel combustion engine: the V6 HDi DPFS, mated
to a 6-speed automatic gearbox developing 150 kW (208
bhp) that drives the front wheels,
- two electric motors in the rear wheels, each
developing torque of 400 Nm with output of 15 kW (20
bhp).
With its diesel hybrid technology, C-Métisse respects
the environment. This is particularly true in the city
in ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode – an "extended'",
completely silent all-electric mode with a range of
around 3 km at 30 kph – as well as on roads demanding
successive acceleration and deceleration. In this second
case, the hybrid architecture makes it possible to limit
consumption by using the two forms of energy together.
On motorways, the V6 HDi diesel combustion engine with a
DPFS (particulate filter) sets high standards of
efficiency, based on its intrinsic qualities.
By controlling fuel consumption and thus pollutant
emissions, C- Métisse boasts combined cycle
consumption levels of 6.5 l/100 km for CO˛ emissions of
174 g/km.
No sacrifices have been made in terms of driving
pleasure, which remains a key priority for motorists. If
the driver makes prolonged use of the accelerator pedal,
the boost function kicks in to provide the immediate
torque required. This function combines the torque of
the combustion engine with that of the electric motors
to endow C-Métisse with a level of performance worthy of
a high-spec sports vehicle, without pushing up fuel
consumption. C-Métisse accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in
6.2 seconds and takes 25.4 seconds to cover 1,000 m
from a standing start.
Rather than pursuing the quest for ever higher speeds
that are not practicable in normal traffic conditions,
the emphasis has been placed on driving pleasure with
clean, fast acceleration. For example, C-Métisse
accelerates from 80 to 120 kph in 4.2 seconds.
Also, the vehicle remains in 4-wheel drive mode while
the boost function is active, since the electric motors
drive the rear wheels while the combustion engine drives
the front wheels. Thus ensuring impeccable traction.
Also, when the ESP sensors report low grip conditions,
C-Métisse can activate its electric motors and thus
adopt a 4-wheel drive configuration. The electric motors
deliver improved traction and ensure full use of the
potential of C-Métisse in all conditions and in complete
safety.
Alongside the engine and motors, the drivetrain
comprises a pack of high-voltage batteries supplying the
electric motors. Positioned in the centre of the
vehicle, the pack is recharged by the electric motors
during deceleration phases, thus converting the
vehicle's kinetic energy into electric energy.
The drivetrain and braking control unit – the nerve
centre of the system – automatically manages the energy
configuration: transition from 2- to 4-wheel drive,
energy recovery and recharging of batteries.
Aerodynamics optimised to combine high standards of
performance with respect for the environment
Special emphasis was placed on the aerodynamics and
flowing design of C-Métisse, these being key Citroën
values. The objective was to enhance the vehicle's
dynamics, road manners and performance while showing
respect for the environment.
Far from being a gratuitous styling exercise, the forms
of C-Métisse combine visual appeal with dynamic
efficiency. C-Métisse boasts a Cd of 0.30 obtained by
its taut, flowing lines, as well as by a series of
innovative features such as the enlarged air intakes at
the front, the flat underside of the car, the two
retractable rear airfoils and the rear fixed-fin
spoiler. All these features play an active role in
reducing aerodynamic drag and lift, thus pushing the car
to the ground and improving roadholding.
Limited weight for performance and fuel economy
Particular efforts were made to reduce vehicle weight
in order to achieve both performance and fuel economy.
With its carbon body and carbon trellis supporting the
powertrain and front axle, C-Métisse weighs just 1,400
kg, batteries included. A remarkable figure for a
vehicle of this size.
The architecture of the diesel hybrid powertrain also
contributes to this result. The positioning of the
electric motors in the rear wheels and the position of
the battery pack in the centre of the vehicle
distributes the weight perfectly between front and rear,
for improved road behaviour.
A car of astonishing style and equally astonishing
performance with its diesel hybrid powerplant, C-Métisse
combines the concept of ecology with automotive emotions
and sensations. Through its ability to challenge
received ideas, it illustrates an objective long pursued
by Citroën: to develop vehicles that reflect the spirit
of the times, without losing sight of the essential –
driving pleasure.
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