CITRO�N Metropolis concept car page 1
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CITRO�N METROPOLIS CONCEPT CAR
Paris, 18 April 2010
CITRO�N METROPOLIS, A CONCEPT CAR FOR CHINA
Citro�n is today revealing the style lines of<br>Metropolis, a new concept car that pays homage to China�s<br>extraordinary development. Metropolis will be on show at<br>the French pavilion at the Shanghai World�s Fair from 1<br>May to 31 October 2010.
A sleek limousine with harmonious lines, Metropolis is a<br>reference to the grandeur, avant-gardism and vitality of<br>the country�s great megalopolises with their undeniable<br>magnetic attraction. To better address the local needs in<br>this full-growth market, the concept car was designed 100%<br>by Citro�n�s international design team based in Shanghai<br>since 2008.
A true artistic creation, Metropolis resituates the<br>codes of luxury and attraction in the Marque�s universe of<br>Cr�ative Technologie. Citro�n�s history is studded with<br>high-end vehicles that have made their mark on automotive<br>progress over the last 90 years. World�s Fair visitors<br>will thus be treated to an �automotive work of art�, one<br>that fits in perfectly with the �Sensual City� theme of<br>the French pavilion. Metropolis is the result of the<br>highest creative standards and technological smarts,<br>evidenced in the Hydractive suspension system and plug-in<br>hybrid drivetrain.
The Shanghai World Fair is an opportunity for the brand<br>to reassert its international character and show once<br>again, after 20 years in China, the importance it gives to<br>the needs and expectations of this market. China has<br>become the world�s largest automotive market and Citro�n�s<br>second biggest market. The Marque enjoyed a record year in<br>the country in 2009, with deliveries up by more than 57%.
Metropolis, the ultimate in luxury
With its three-volume body styling � essential in the<br>Chinese market � Metropolis expresses a vision of creative<br>and sophisticated luxury through its imposing stature<br>(5.30 m long, 2 m wide and 1.40 m high), which also serves<br>to reflect the ambition and scale of the country to which<br>it pays homage.
The spectacular and muscular body styling is draped in a<br>flowing robe in a subtle �Pearl Silk� hue, the intensity<br>of which changes according to the light to reveal generous<br>curves and ultra-honed detailing. Like a �Chinese vestal�<br>such as Xian Nu, the styling language of Metropolis blends<br>smooth surfaces, taut lines and sensual curves, together<br>with special touches like the beautifully shaped front<br>wing that emphasises the powerful, tapering silhouette.
Extending far back along the body, the chromed detailing<br>on the upper part of the side windows serves to stretch<br>the cabin lengthwise while safeguarding the intimacy of<br>the rear passengers. The �origami� quarter-light appears<br>to float in the air and, in a nod to the DS, also houses a<br>light source.
The front end of Metropolis clearly expresses the store<br>of power lurking behind the consummately wrought kite-<br>shaped grille. The streamlined headlamps on either side<br>have an imperious and steely regard, lending the whole a<br>natural air of authority.
At the back, Metropolis artfully balances width and<br>stability while boasting a taut and aerodynamic shape. The<br>flowing lines are enhanced by the concave rear window<br>combined with the shape of the boot, which features an<br>active spoiler. The innovative �slatted boomerang� lights<br>composed of layered segments add the crowning touch to the<br>rear of the vehicle.
The interior design is inspired by fans and Chinese<br>string instruments like the gu-zheng. In China, these are<br>the attributes of a cultivated and refined person. The<br>cabin is made up of superposed strata, creating a setting<br>in which luxury is expressed in a new, �orientalised�<br>approach. Luxury onboard the concept car is of the<br>expressive kind.
Metropolis combines grandeur, stability and refinement<br>with creativity, technology and quality. These words<br>accurately express a blend of Chinese and French<br>sensibilities. And Citro�n�s new concept car is an<br>expression of China�s ambition.
Metropolis and avant-garde technology
Metropolis balances urban responsibility and driving<br>pleasure with its plug-in hybrid drivetrain. And to get<br>the most out of these on-road capabilities, it is also<br>fitted with Hydractive suspension � a Citro�n hallmark<br>that meets expectations on ride comfort worldwide, and in<br>China in particular. This system maintains a constant<br>vehicle attitude for better aerodynamics and, hence, fewer<br>CO2 emissions.
With its plug-in hybrid drivetrain, Metropolis can run in<br>several modes:
full electric: at start-up, in town at low speeds and<br>when decelerating, with an electric motor developing a<br>continuous 55 bhp (40 kW) and peaking at 95 bhp (70 kW);
in thermal combustion mode: at steady speeds on roads<br>and motorways when the engine achieves maximum<br>efficiency, with a V6 2-litre petrol engine developing a<br>continuous 272 bhp (200 kW) and 375 Nm.
with the two engines...