TAKE a look at Citroen’s electric dream! Auto Express has learned there will be a hybrid diesel model in the french firm’s showrooms by 2011 – and it’ll be this flagship four-wheel drive DS5.
The largest model in its eagerly- anticipated DS premium range – kicked off at the Geneva Motor Show with the MINI-rivalling DS3 – the DS5 will boast a striking body, inspired by the C-Sportlounge concept car, first revealed at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show.
And to go with its head-turning looks, it’ll boast the eco-friendly diesel hybrid powertrain, which pairs an HDI diesel engine with an electric motor that drives the rear wheels.
The unit will also be used in sister brand Peugeot’s 3008 crossover vehicle (driven in Issue 1,060). The French firms’ parent company PSA said: “The innovative technology delivers a multitude of benefits - considerable fuel savings and around a 35 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions.”
The Peugeot will be the first to market in early 2011, and will have the honour of being the world’s first diesel hybrid passenger car. And while the firm remained tight-lipped on price, its spokesman revealed: “French HQ has always said that it wants the price premium over the diesel version to be less than £2,000.”
The transmission – officially known as the PSA HYbrid4 diesel-electric technology – is being developed at two existing factories in Mulhouse and Sochaux, France. Teams at both are currently working on how best to set up the production lines to manufacturer the new cars, and other future models, which will get the hybrid system. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express