Friday, April 13, 2012

Lithium Drive: New Citroën Plug In Numéro 9 Concept



Car Advise:


Citroen Numero 9 concept previews three new DS models


By Tim Beissmann | 
The Citroen Numero 9 concept will preview the styling of three all-new Citroen DS models when it makes its world premiere at this month’s Beijing motor show.
Citroen says the Numero 9 concept signals the styling cues of an upcoming D-segment executive saloon – expected to be called the DS9 – as well as a C-segment premium sedan and an SUV.
The three new models will double the number of models offered in Citroen’s luxurious, style-centric DS range, joining the DS3 light hatch, DS4 small hatch and DS5 medium wagon.
Citroen says the Numero 9 concept is a fresh take on the shooting brake body style, combining thoroughbred looks with radical design elements.
A plug-in hybrid, the Numero 9 concept teams a 52kW/200Nm rear axle-mounted electric motor with a lithium-ion battery and a 165kW/275Nm petrol engine. Its combined 217kW peak power output allows the Numero 9 concept to sprint from 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds and go on to a top speed of 244km/h, yet its combined cycle fuel consumption is a remarkably low 1.7 litres per 100km.
The battery can be recharged from a standard power socket in 3.5 hours, allowing the Numero 9 concept to operate in all-electric rear-wheel-drive mode for up to 50km.
The twin powerplant layout means all-wheel-drive mode can be manually selected to improve traction and performance on rough or snow-covered surfaces.
The Citroen Numero 9 concept is 4930mm long, 1940mm wide, 1270mm tall and rides on a 3000mm wheelbase making it, for comparison’s sake, 25mm longer, 41mm wider and 206mm lower than a Holden Commodore Sportwagon.
The concept evolves the design of the current DS line and introduces the new styling of future models, showcasing a three-dimensional grille flowing into full-LED headlights, a floating roof and coupe-style glazed side surfaces.
The heavily raked A-pillars, deep-reaching rear spoiler and the ‘Turbine’ alloy wheels all contribute to the car’s aerodynamics, reducing turbulence and fuel consumption.
More details on the Citroen Numero 9 concept, including its interior design and production plans for the DS9, are expected to be revealed following its Beijing motor show debut on April 23.

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