A New Auto In The Trade

Citroen’s gorgeous C-Airdream concept is a beautifully crafted masterpiece. This design for a new sports coupe has a sleek, aerodynamic shape, with a rearward-biased proportion, and detailing that exudes spottiness and promises real enjoyment. You can’t help thinking the spirit of the idiosyncratic but stunning 1970 Citroen SM has been crafted into a loving homage.
The car’s “face” is dominated by two large, slotted air intakes and narrow, swept-back headlights that sit either side of the famous double-chevron grille. The sculpted hood rises gently to the steeply raked windshield and this line continues up to the panoramic glass roof, giving occupants a feeling of complete openness. The roof panel gradually falls to the rear, ending abruptly as the body waists inward to reduce aerodynamic dragan SM touch for certain.
A subtle mix of dark, glossy, and matt leather flows throughout the cabin, so that the interior oozes a sculptural surface language reminiscent of a sultry cocktail bar. The moire-look seats are refreshingly different and look amply comfortable.
As with Citroen’s previous concept car, the C-Crosser, there is a technology focus on drive-by-wire systems. On the C-Airdream, controls for accelerator, brakes, and gear change are all located on the steering wheel, completely eliminating the need for a pedal box. This in turn gives more scope for interior design and improves safety. Even the steering actuation is via electronic control systems, obviating the need for conventional mechanical parts.
If only Citroen had the nerve to produce this caras it did the SM it would surely connect with a very chic audience, and bring to market a car that is in many ways truly new and exciting.