2002 A revolution in driving-position design
(Not to be confused with the 2007- production C-Crosser)
C-Crosser proves – once again – Citroën’s ability to imagine the vehicles of the future, by revolutionising the design of the vehicle driving position. In view of the considerable interest aroused by C-Crosser at a number of motor shows, Citroën has decided to display this striking and original concept car at the 2002 Paris Motor Show.
The electronically controlled driving position: a technology that is gaining ground
The use of electronic control systems for all the dynamic functions of the C-Crosser reflects a revolutionary approach to interior architecture in which all mechanical links between controls and components (engine, steering, brakes, etc.) have been removed. This made it possible to create innovative driving interfaces and to look at a host of new possibilities in terms of layout. The steering wheel, for example, can be placed in different positions at the front. The layout of the controls on the wheel is designed to ensure the comfort and wellbeing of both the driver and passengers. The absence of the pedal assembly frees up additional space, which is used to improve the interior layout and also to increase safety. The fact that there are no mechanical parts such as the steering column and pedal assembly significantly reduces the risk of injury in the event of impact.
Having ‘drive-by-wire’ controls on the steering-wheel also increases the speed at which the driver’s commands are performed. Precious time is saved in braking, for example, since the driver does not have to put his foot on the pedal.
In addition to the usual functions, the driver’s station on the C-Crosser features the braking, acceleration and gearshift controls. Steering relies on an electric link with a sensor that works with the control electronics to monitor speed and grip. The driver simply turns one of the two handles inwards to accelerate and outwards to brake. Positioned on the outer edges of the steering wheel, the two handles are integral with the wheel, and respond to input from the driver at the same time.
Transformation at will
The C-Crosser is designed to adapt to a wide variety of everyday situations. With its modular bodywork, it can easily be turned into a pick-up. The tailgate and roof disappear into the floor at a push of a button. The rear seats can be concealed just as easily, freeing up a perfectly flat load floor of generous dimensions (1.90 m x 1.20 m). For increased comfort, passengers at the front can raise the electric window built into the back of the seat to isolate their compartment.
Sliding side doors and a variable-height load sill provide easy access to the rear platform. The driver simply presses a button at the rear of the vehicle to lower the sill by 100 mm, making it easy to load heavy or bulky objects. For increased convenience, the C-Crosser features built-in, electrically controlled roof bars that slide along the roof arches, making it possible to transport long objects, whatever the configuration of the vehicle.
Well-being at all times
Truly versatile, C-Crosser adapts to all the possible configurations of its environment.
It is particularly at ease in the city, for example, with its four steered wheels. Moreover, the long-travel Hydractive 3 suspension endows the C-Crosser with the same roadholding qualities as a saloon. At low speeds, the four steered wheels make it possible to turn the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels for exceptionally fluid handling and good manoeuverability (in both urban and off-road driving). At normal speeds, the rear wheels are turned in the same direction as the front wheels to increase stability when changing lanes. On bumpy terrain, the C-Crosser can increase ground clearance from 140 mm to 200 mm to cope with all difficulties.
The electronic brake control system brings real-time control of the pressure exercised on each brake disc. In consequence, the braking capacity of each tyre can be used to the full at all times, whatever the level of grip. Moreover, with its all-wheel drive (and electronically controlled viscous coupling), ESP and ABS, the C-Crosser sets high standards of safety whatever the driving conditions.
