Citroën C5 Airscape is a green executive cabriolet with new UrbanHybrid system
Citroën's latest announced concept car, the C5 Airscape, is coming to the Frankfurt Motor Show next month and the green side of this muscular convertible (excuse me, cabriolet) is presented first and foremost as Citroën tries to build up interest in this car. From the carbon fiber roof to the aerodynamic design to the new "UrbanHybrid" powertrain, Citroën is trying to make the executive cabriolet a greener cruiser.
Here's what Citroën says about the UrbayHybrid system:
Fuel economy is managed by an 'UrbanHybrid' system that includes a reversible alternator-starter and super capacitors. This system allows onboard equipment, such as the air conditioning or audio system, to be powered by energy recovered during braking and deceleration, while engine torque can be temporarily boosted when required.
The 'UrbanHybrid' system, which helps reduce CO2 emissions by 24g/km on the combined cycle, also switches off the engine when the vehicle is at standstill, before starting it again instantly once the accelerator is pressed. The fitting of a refined, bio-diesel compliant 208bhp 2.7HDi V6 engine, complete with particulate filter, further minimises any impact on the environment.
A biodiesel hybrid with lightweight parts? That gives the C5 Airscape a solid combination of green tech and an exterior look that should appeal to those who desire an elegant silver Sunday driver. It'll be interesting to see how much of this concept makes it to future Citroën models. Aside from the green side of the C5 Airscape, Citroën seems to be excited about the automatic folding top and other high-end features. You can read about those in the press release after the jump.
