A new approach to design

C-Cactus is the result of an intelligent design process with a new objective: to reduce the number of parts required to build the car. To meet this objective, engineers grouped several functions on a single part, simplified a number of mechanisms to the extreme, and removed all non-essential parts.

The dashboard has gone, and its usual functions are now grouped on the central console and the fixed hub of the steering wheel. Another example of simplification: the part used for the front bumper is the same as the part used for the lower part of the tailgate at the rear.

This simplicity is also reflected in the design of the front end, which comprises just two parts: a fixed bonnet comprising the wings and a flap providing access to the vehicle maintenance functions (oil, windscreen washing fluid, etc.).
At the same time, a number of single-block units are used to cut the number of parts. The door panels, for example, comprise two parts, compared with twelve on a conventional hatchback.

Advanced ecological performance

With its diesel hybrid drivetrain combining a 70 bhp HDi diesel engine and particulate filter with an electric motor providing an additional 30 bhp, C-Cactus consumes just 2.9l/100 km for CO2 emissions of 78g/km over a combined cycle.

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 Hybrid HDi, for a total weight of 1,180 kg.

Fewer parts also means smaller quantities of raw materials. At the same time, many of the materials used are recycled or recyclable. The door panels are made of crude steel, treated for corrosion but unpainted and unvarnished. The glass used for the windows is recycled, the protective mats are made of recycled leather, the felt used for dashboard stowage compartments is made from wool, etc.

A modern, appealing vehicle

C-Cactus is a car with an original and unique personality, with its simple shapes and mix of round, curving lines. 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 rounded headlamps are underlined by two cylindrical air intakes cut out of the bumper, above an air intake grille that adds a muscular, energetic touch.

The high waistline and 21-inch wheels also underline the strong character of C-Cactus. For new and even more original styling, the specially designed tyres feature a green pattern on a white background printed inside a wide groove spanning the entire tread.

The same styling cues can be seen at the rear, where a combination of curves and taut lines illustrate the car’s dynamic and appealing personality. The rear lights include a clever feature: cut-outs in the interior plastic let the driver see through for a wider field of vision.

An 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.

Passengers have all the comfort essential to their well-being. C-Cactus boasts advanced equipment, optimised onboard space and clever modular design, as illustrated by the rear seat, which slides up against the front seats on a rail.

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. The ignition key 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.