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Press Release: The Alfa 147 C’N’C CoSTUME NATIONAL special series
The dark shades of the interior create an elegant dynamic environment, with seats upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara with a jacquard tone-on-tone pattern, and a contrast between the black varnished pillars, ceiling and trims and the white of the bodywork. The sporty personality of the 147 C’N’C CoSTUME NATIONAL is also evident in other details like the red background of the instruments with white lighting, carpeting mats with identity plate and aluminium heel-high strips.
The version on display is a 5-door, equipped with the sparkling 150 bhp 1.9 JTDM engine; the most sophisticated safety features are standard equipment - from VDC to ASR, ABS complete with EBD and 6 airbags - and there is a wide range of options: a Bose® Hi-Fi system with subwoofer, low suspension settings, Xenon headlights, satellite navigator and antitheft system.
Press Release: The Panda Aria concept car
The Frankfurt Show hosts the world debut of the Panda Aria concept car, which illustrates Fiat’s viewpoint of cars with a low environmental impact. This concept car represents the last frontier achievable in terms of emissions and consumption, by synergetically associating sustainable technologies already in existence or soon to be industrialised, a practical demonstration of Fiat’s commitment to the environment.
The concept car combines an innovative powertrain architecture – represented by the new SGE 900 cc Turbo twin-cylinder engine, equipped with the Multiair® system for dual petrol/methane-hydrogen fuel management, MTA gearbox and Stop&Start device – with the adoption of eco-compatible materials (recycled, recyclable or of natural origin) both outside and inside. The interior is upholstered with natural fibres (cotton and linen), woven coconut fibre and biodegradable elements, while the exterior panelling is made of semi-transparent eco-resin and the structure is treated with opaque ‘totouch’ paint.
It is all made even more interesting by the minimisation of the energy absorbed by the auxiliary units on the vehicle and engine (for example the low consumption climate control unit), by a reduction in the vehicle’s weight (downsizing of the engine, the use of new generation, high tensile steel, methane storage cylinders made of high performance steel and carbon fibre) and the adoption of experimental Pirelli ‘ultra-green’ tyres with new compounds and new AOF (Aromatic Oil Free) textile weaves which guarantee limited drag but do not detract from dynamic safety performance (stopping distances and good handling on wet and dry roads).
And finally, the Panda Aria is fitted with a telematic system, based on the Blue&Me architecture, that is wired to adapt to new infomobility services. It also incorporates original software which allows the consumption and emissions of each trip to be recorded on a USB pen drive, through the USB port of the Blue&Me system, so that the customer’s driving style can later be analysed on a computer, and he can learn how to make his driving more ‘eco-friendly’.
The Panda Aria is equipped with the new twin-cylinder 80 bhp turbo engine from the SGE family, in this version with Multiair® petrol-methane fuel supply system. This sophisticated fuel management system is already designed to operate with a mixture of methane (70%) and hydrogen (30%). The twin-cylinder engine is combined with a Stop&Start device and the innovative MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) gearbox.
The innovative twin-cylinder engine developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies is the outcome of a philosophy that focused on reducing fuel consumption and, as a consequence, CO2 emissions, in respect of future Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standard, with the same performance as a large engine.
The concept behind this new engine is the downsizing from a conventional 4-cylinder engine to a 2-cylinder turbocharged engine that incorporates the innovative Multiair® electronic inlet valve control system. In addition to advantages in terms of consumption, the twin-cylinder engine also results in a 20% reduction in weight and 25% in volume inside the engine bay compared to a 4-cylinder engine with the same power output.
The maximum output achievable by the new twin-cylinder engine, in the Mono Fuel petrol version is 105 bhp (a 65 bhp aspirated version, also equipped with the Multiair® system, is now under development). The SGE engine family adopts a crankshaft balancing system that significantly reduces vibration and noise levels compared to other two and three cylinder engines.
The innovative Multiair® system controls the air in controlled-ignition petrol engines without the usual throttle valve, and therefore with a greater degree of flexibility than mechanical timing systems.
This electrohydraulic valve activation technology is based on the insertion, between the camshaft and the engine inlet valve, of an amount of oil (high pressure chamber) that can be varied by a valve, which in turn is controlled by a specific electronic control unit.
This allows the raising profile of the valve to be modified in response to the request for air from the engine and to the running speed. Different strategies can be employed (Early inlet valve closing – EIVC, Late inlet valve opening – LIVO, or Multi-Lift) to optimise combustion efficiency, with considerable benefits in terms of power output, torque, consumption and emissions. Another advantage of this system is the fact that the air pressure upstream of the valves is always constant. This characteristic, combined with the high system activation dynamics (from partial load to full load in one engine cycle) allows the torque response of the engine to be increased without any delay, on both an aspirated and a turbocharged engine, increasing the ‘fun to drive’ factor.
On the Panda Aria the new twin-cylinder engine is combined with a dual fuel management system, with petrol and a mixture of methane (70%) and hydrogen (30%); this solution also helps to reduce polluting emissions by guaranteeing more efficient, complete combustion. It also makes it possible to increase the engine’s thermodynamic efficiency and to achieve combustion stability values that are better than those possible with methane alone, in certain operating conditions. This means that methane-hydrogen vehicles represent a step forward for an existing technology that is open to further refinement and new applications. Methane-hydrogen mixes can thus represent a ‘bridge’ solution in the medium term, while infrastructure is developed to guarantee hydrogen supplies in the future.
The Panda Aria is equipped with the ‘Stop&Start’ system that turns the engine off temporarily and starts it again, when the engine is idling and the vehicle is stationary: in this situation, typical of congested town traffic and queues at red lights, and when control logics allow it, the system automatically turns the engine off thus saving a considerable amount of fuel (a 10% reduction in consumption in the urban cycle). The instant the brake pedal is released or a gear is engaged, the system immediately re-starts the engine, which responds promptly to the driver’s demands.
The Stop&Start system combined with the MTA gearbox ensures optimal management of gear changes, and excellent mechanical efficiency. The automated transmission lays the foundations of the ‘intelligent’ management of the on/off status of the engine. By controlling the clutch, the system allows the internal combustion engine to be cut off from the transmission whenever traction is not needed and the engine can be turned off.
The combination of these solutions, which have been developed by the Fiat Group (Fiat Group Automobiles, Fiat Powertrain Technologies and Centro Ricerche Fiat), are already in existence or will soon be available on regular and future production models, guaranteeing a drastic reduction in emissions. For example, CO2 emissions on the Panda Aria concept car have been cut to a record low of 69 g/km.
Just bypass the fact that upfront it looks like a mini Cayenne; what’s important is that Citroen’s new hybrid concept is expected to form the base for a production model in the very near future that will compete against the Prius. Citroen’s philosophy in designing and engineering the Cactus-C was to create an ecological mid-size hatch that could be sold at the same price as an entry-level C4 (Citroen’s equivalent to the VW Golf, Opel Astra etc). Measuring in at 4.2 m (165 in.), the 5door Cactus-C features PSA’s hybrid-diesel drivetrain which consists of a 70 Hp HDi diesel unit and a 5-speed automatic transmission combined with a 30 Hp electric motor installed in the clutch housing. Thanks to using fewer parts, the Cactus-C is actually 15% lighter than a C4 Hybride HDi for a total weight of 1,306 kg or 2,879 lbs. According to Citroen, the C-Cactus consumes 3.4 l/100 km for CO2 emissions of 78 g/km. -Press release and images after the jump
CITROËN C-CACTUS
A NEW ECOLOGICAL AND ATTRACTIVE TAKE ON THE ESSENTIAL CAR
Citroën is unveiling C-Cactus at the 2007
To square this complex equation, Citroën is exploring new forms of design. It has decided to abandon features that are not essential to comfort and to focus instead on technology, styling and equipment that are positive, ecological and valued by users.
C-Cactus is an ecological car. It includes a significant proportion of recycled or recyclable materials and, like the plant it is named after, it is low on consumption. Weighing just 1,306 kg and featuring a hybrid HDi drivetrain, C-Cactus consumes 3.4 l/100 km for CO2 emissions of 78 g/km.
At the same time, C-Cactus is no more expensive than a mid-range family car. Its low production cost can be attributed to the use of new materials and to a rational design process using a smaller number of parts. The cabin is made up of just over 200 parts, i.e. almost half the number used by a conventional hatchback of identical size.
C-Cactus is an essential car, with sharp styling and attractive features. Its curves give it a fun look and strong appeal, while the angles and rounded lines of the bodywork underline its dynamic character.
C-Cactus sets high standards of onboard comfort with a roomy interior that is worthy of a family car. It is 4.2 metres long and 1.8 metres wide with a wide range of equipment including air conditioning with automatic temperature control, a high-quality audio system, a panoramic glass sunroof, cruise control and a speed limiter.
C-CACTUS Essential, intelligent and ecologically aware
The economic and ingenious solutions adopted for C-Cactus keep production costs down and make it possible to fit a diesel hybrid drivetrain, all for the price of an entry-level C4. To achieve this result, C-Cactus places the emphasis on equipment that is essential to passenger comfort. At the same time, it explores new design processes in order to show that economy and ecology need not be synonymous with a rough ride.
C-Cactus is the result of an intelligent design process pursuing new objectives. By exploring new forms of expression and new technical solutions, Citroën's engineers cut the number of parts required to build the car.
To achieve this objective, the engineers:
- simplified a number of parts and mechanisms to the extreme,
- grouped several functions in a single part,
- removed all parts that are non-essential to the running of the car or to the comfort and well-being of its occupants.
The dashboard has gone, and its usual functions are now grouped on the central console and the fixed hub of the steering wheel. The central console thus includes the active loudspeakers, gearbox controls and tactile screen giving access to the onboard computer, navigation system and air conditioning controls. The controls for the indicators, lights, wipers, horn and cruise control/speed limiter are on the fixed hub of the steering wheel, as are the tachometer and lights for the indicators, headlamps and warning signals.
Another example of simplification: the part used for the front bumper, which includes the headlamps and chevrons is the same as the part making up the lower part of the tailgate at the rear. This contributes to the assertive design of C-Cactus while bringing economies of scale in production.
This simplicity is also reflected in the design of the front end, which comprises just two parts: a fixed bonnet comprising the front wings, and a flap giving access to the vehicle maintenance functions (oil, windscreen washer, etc.).
Reflecting a similar approach, using the air conditioning makes it virtually unnecessary to open the windows. A simple sliding mechanism is therefore provided, since this is sufficient in normal use. Engineers were thus able to get rid of both the window frames and the opening mechanism.
At the same time, a number of monoblock units are used for C-Cactus to reduce the overall number of parts.
The door panels, for example, are made of two parts, compared with twelve in a conventional hatchback.
The seats also comprise two parts: a highly comfortable, moulded, coloured, integral-skin foam part for the seat, and a solid monoblock frame to hold the foam in place and fix the seat to the floor rails. The ergonomics are excellent and – here again – the number of components is limited.
Advanced ecological features
To achieve real environmental impact, Citroën's objective has always been to market technologies and vehicles that are affordable to the greatest number. The objective with C-Cactus is to go one step further, by bringing out a car whose hybrid HDi drivetrain makes it truly ecological car, but that can be sold at the same price as an entry-level family car.
With its diesel hybrid drivetrain combining a 70 bhp DIN HDi diesel engine with a particulate filter and an electric motor providing additional power of 30 bhp DIN, C‑Cactus consumes just 3.4l/100 km with CO2 emission levels of 78 g/km over a combined cycle. In urban use, ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode provides silent, all-electric operation. On journeys involving successive acceleration and deceleration, the hybrid system limits fuel consumption by using both types of energy.
Other points also help to make C-Cactus a car that respects the environment.
The solutions adopted for the design of C-Cactus also contribute to bringing down fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Using fewer parts makes the vehicle 15% lighter than a C4 Hybride HDi for a total weight of 1,306 kg.
The tyre width has also been kept down (205/45 R21) on C-Cactus, which adds to environmental performance.
Fewer parts also means smaller quantities of raw materials. In additon, a significant part of the materials used are recycled or recyclable. The windscreen and windows, for example, are made of recyclable glass. The tyres are also recyclable, as is the crude steel used for the door panels. This metal is unpainted and unvarnished but has been treated for corrosion.
The protective mats are made of recycled leather, taken from leather cut-offs that cannot be used by conventional tanneries. Many parts are made of cork, a natural material made from the bark of oak trees. The felt used for the door panels and fascia stowage compartments is made from wool. This material uses no chemical additives and is both recyclable and biodegradable.
The top speed of C-Cactus has deliberately been capped at 150 kph. This choice not only contributes to the car's good environmental performance, it also reflects Citroën's efforts to develop a green vehicle illustrating a new approach to the car, in which the motorist is in harmony with his/her surrounding environment.
C-CACTUS A modern car with appeal
Based on the bold but rational use of parts and materials, C-Cactus is an essential vehicle reflecting a new vision of the car focused on:
- a new balance of priorities, and a design that pursues the essential without sacrificing comfort,
- a design in which ecology and economy are synonymous not with dullness, but with expression and pleasure.
Through this attractive concept with its appealing offbeat styling, Citroën has developed a new take on the economical and ecological car. A vehicle at ease with its original and ingenious design. At the same time, this is a car that brings the occupants all the features essential for their comfort.
Looking for simplicity: intelligent, fun exterior design
C-Cactus has a unique personality: appealing, modern and offbeat, with its simple shapes and mix of round, curving lines. The original styling also reflects ingenious design choices. Throughout the design process, the focus was very much on simplicity. This led to the development of ingenious solutions that contribute to the attractive offbeat design of C-Cactus.
At the front, the headlamps of C-Cactus give the vehicle an appealing air with their rounded and slightly angular forms. They are underlined by two cylindrical air intakes cut out of the bumper, above an air intake grille of modern design which, while contributing to the vehicle's rounded forms, also adds a muscular energetic touch. The raised bonnet and two air intakes also contribute to the dynamic looks of C‑Cactus.
The vehicle's rounded forms are reflected in its profile. The dynamic design lines are accentuated by the forward flowing roof line and the asymmetric doors made of crude steel that has been treated for corrosion.
The doors feature an original cut-out since the fixed windows remove a number of the constraints that usually apply to design. Shaped to provide easy access to the interior, they give C-Cactus a curving, sleekly muscled appearance. The use of crude steel treated for corrosion, but without paint or varnish, contributes to savings in production costs while giving a strong, contemporary look.
The high waistline and 21-inch wheels also underline the strong character of C‑Cactus.
The wheels were the focus of particular attention. Large-diameter wheels and low-profile tyres have become key styling features in vehicles of strong, contemporary design.
Citroën worked with Michelin on the development of low-profile tyres with a large diameter and limited width. The low ground friction area limits fuel consumption and, at the same time, tyre production costs are kept under control since the manufacturing process requires only a small amount of rubber.
For new and even more original styling, these specially designed tyres feature a green pattern on a white background printed inside a wide groove spanning the entire tread.
The same styling codes can be seen at the rear, where a combination of curves and taut lines illustrate the car's dynamic and appealing personality. The chevrons identify this car as a Citroën. The name "Cactus" appears in relief on the bottom of the tailgate, in a young, smooth, modern printface.
The rear lights, which resemble the headlamps in shape, boast an innovative feature: cut-outs in the interior plastic that let the driver see through. This innovation considerably increases the driver's field of vision and may be particularly useful in manoeuvres, for example.
Fewer features for greater impact: a welcoming, attractive and cleverly designed interior
C-Cactus is also an original and ingenious car on the inside. The design cut-outs, choice of materials, patterns and colours give the cabin a minimalist, attractive and airy look.
The cabin materials reflect innovative choices. Their quality is immediately visible. Looking beyond their appearance, they are also economical and ecological. For example, cork is used for many decorative parts, as well as for the air vents and air conditioning panel. The floor features a pattern in recycled leather. The white lacquer finish of some parts and the visual effects created by the materials used contribute to the original design and perceived quality of the cabin.
Another key idea was to enhance the offbeat styling of C-Cactus by reducing the number of parts and the quantity of materials used for the decor.
Non-essential parts, such as the dashboard, are absent, while some of the parts that are usually hidden have been included in the decor. This is the case, for example, of the steering column, air conditioning ducts and the grid for fore-and-aft adjustment of the front seats. These features add a modern and original touch to the cabin. The refill for the scented air freshener is also visible. It contributes to the attractive appearance of the cabin, while enabling the driver to see how much is left.
The decor has not been put in. It has been created by removing material. This idea of decorating "in a vacuum" is reflected in the patterns present on the door panels and seat frames. The patterns cut-out in the door panels show the apple green felt inserted between panel and metal. The main role of this part is to soundproof the vehicle, but its colour and cut-outs make it an integral part of the décor.
The same flower, plant and butterfly patterns – symbolising the environment, purity and well-being – are also found on several other cabin features. They are cut out, for example, in the white lacquer seat frame. These cut-outs show the coloured foam used for the seat cushions and give it a decorative quality.
Pertinent choices for an easy and enjoyable ride
C-Cactus boasts advanced equipment, optimised on-board space and modular design at an affordable price. Passengers have all the comfort essential to their well-being.
First, the ignition key of C-Cactus is a portable MP3 player with a touch screen. When it is plugged into the fixed hub of the steering wheel, it is recognised by the vehicle which can then be started.
The fixed-hub steering wheel includes a wide variety of functions. In addition to the usual controls, it also includes the speedometer, which is of an unusual design. The figures, placed in relief around the hub, rotate according to speed and are positioned with respect to a fixed point.
A second touch screen on the central console includes a navigation system to guide the driver on the road. It also serves as an onboard computer. This equipment endows C-Cactus with high-tech advanced features while also keeping costs down, since functions are grouped together.
The central console features two powerful high-quality active loudspeakers that provide C-Cactus with an excellent sound system. Their ingenious layout limits both wiring and installation costs.
Generous interior space ensures passenger comfort. C-Cactus boasts the dimensions of a family car (4.2 metres long and 1.8 metres wide) with a generous and modular boot (between 500 and 1,100 litres).
The rear seat, placed on a rail, slides up against the front seats. The floor pan, which is integral with the rear bench, also slides forward to reveal a subfloor. This reveals a virtually flat surface area to load bulky objects.
Another ingenious feature is a clip-on bag on the passenger side. This replaces the glovebox and can be used to carry objects outside the car.
For comfort and styling, C-Cactus features a panoramic glass sunroof that lets the light flood into the cabin.
TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS
· Dimensions
Length: 4,200 mm
Width: 1,800 mm
Height: 1,490 mm
Wheelbase: 2,800 mm
Gross vehicle weight (GVW): 1,306 kg (batteries included)
· Performance and fuel consumption
Top speed: 150 kph
Combined consumption: 3.4 l/100 km
CO2 emissions: 78 g/km
· Diesel hybrid drivetrain
70 bhp HDi diesel engine with a DPFS and 5-speed automatic transmission
30 bhp electric motor installed in the clutch housing
ZEV mode
· Aerodynamics
Cd: 0,35
CdA: 0.8 m²
C4 platform
· Main equipment
Touch screen navigation system
Portable MP3 player with a touch screen playing the role of ignition key
Air conditioning with automatic temperature control
High-quality audio system
Speed limiter and cruise control
Electric handbrake
Just as the Grande Punto Abarth went on sale in 
Press Release
The legendary Abarth ‘Scorpion’ returns
After the official presentation in March this year, Abarth now makes its return at the Frankfurt Motor Show. One of the most prestigious brands in world motorsports. Abarth has always been synonymous with aggressive cars, competitiveness, passion and excitement, and it now returns with a new range that will appeal to all lovers of motor racing.
The stand will focus on two important concepts linked to the brand’s revival, which represent the most characteristic aspects of its identity: on one hand, the racing world, and on the other, conversions and boosted performance achieved by the application of highly technological solutions in a simple, intuitive package.
The first concept is presented very effectively with the display of a Grande Punto Abarth S2000, positioned on a large steel platform in the shape of a scorpion, to underline both the power and the unique nature of the technical features of this car.
The second concept is expressed on the stand in two different ways. First of all, there is a large photo-quality configurator, that allows visitors to appreciate and examine hands-on the elements that are important in the conversion world. But the real novelty at the show is the Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” (Super Sport) prototype, exhibited on a large glass platform, under which are a number of 3D monitors. These sophisticated screens project the components of the conversion kit which have made the basic version of the Grande Punto Abarth even more powerful and aggressive, in the best tradition of the Scorpion.
The Grande Punto Abarth went on the market this month, equipped with the 1.4 petrol Turbo engine that delivers 150 bhp at 5500 rpm (boosted to 155 bhp if 98 RON petrol is used) combined with a mechanical 6-speed gearbox that takes it to a top speed of 208 km/h, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.2 seconds. This is the Abarth’s first interpretation of the Grande Punto, but the initiative will soon be extended to other models.
Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” prototype (Super Sport)
The absolute star of the stand is the Grande Punto Abarth “essesse” (Super Sport) prototype. A jewel of assertiveness and elegance, the car is offered with a booster kit that almost doubles its power output with relation to the basic model (up to almost 180 bhp). The ‘“essesse”’ kit also envisages a number of specific elements that accentuate both the sporty look of the Abarth model (for example adhesives with the ‘essesse’ logo or a chequered flag) and its dynamic behaviour, with a particular low stance or a more powerful braking system. This is a feature that maintains a brand tradition: for example, the Fiat 500 of 1958 delivered 13 bhp at 4000 rpm and a top speed of 85 km/h, while the Fiat 500 Abarth of the same year, produced 26 bhp at 5000 rpm and a top speed of 118 km/h.
The Grande Punto Abarth and the Grande Punto Abarth with the ‘essesse’ kit aim to revive the thrill of those cars, offering an opportunity, addressed to the young in particular, of entering the racing world in total safety and at an accessible price.
Grande Punto Abarth S2000
The public in
Powered by a 2000 cc aspirated engine that delivers 270 bhp, with 4-wheel drive, the new Grande Punto Abarth S2000 is the heir to the version that won the 2006 European title and the Intercontinental Rally Challenge with Giandomenico Basso and Mitia Dotta, and took the 2006 Italian Rally Championship winning 7 races.
We must underline that the approximately 25 cars built so far have been ordered by several racing stables in
The head of Racing Operations for Abarth & C. Spa is Claudio Berro, who can draw on a staff with a great deal of experience in the racing sector as well as a team of outstanding drivers.
