C-MÉTISSE, NEW EMOTIONS AND DRIVING SENSATIONS
Everything about C-Métisse identifies it as a car to
stir the soul.
Its elegant proportions and flowing lines embody a
harmonious design with a promise of power. The
fascinating opening mechanism of the doors makes the
observer want to step on board. The driving pleasure and
comfort of the driver and three passengers are ensured
by the premium materials used in cabin design, the
exceptionally comfy individual seats and the
sophisticated in-car technology.
A coupé of elegant design
Looking at C-Métisse is a visual shock in itself. Long
(4.74 m), wide (2 m) and low (1.24 m), the car is
sculptural and almost intimidating. It demands immediate
respect. However, far from creating a sense of distance
between the onlooker and the car, this respect is
mingled with an irresistible appeal, an absolute
attraction.
Whether we're looking at the rear wheel arches, the
bonnet or even the boot, an astonishing sensuality is
reflected in the car's curving, sleekly muscled volumes.
The seduction of C-Métisse is also expressed through a
sense of latent power. Even when stationary, the body
suggests movement. With its very long bonnet and
virtually inexistent rear overhang, C-Métisse brings to
mind the design balance of vehicles seen during the
golden age of Grand Touring.
The design lines of C-Métisse also reflect the quest
for outstanding aerodynamics, delivering improved fuel
economy and lower pollutant emissions while also
integrating the latest technological developments.
Positioned either side of the double chevron badge on
the radiator grille, the headlamps are equipped with a
row of LEDs that light up progressively, depending on
the steering-wheel angle and vehicle speed. This feature
ensures excellent lighting when driving on winding roads
by night. At the same time, the Michelin tyres with
their central wheel nuts contribute to the sporting
character of the coupé. More specifically, the
development of these tyres was integrated with the
vehicle design process, in order to optimise resistance
to air and thus contribute to the vehicle's excellent
drag coefficient (Cd of 0.30).
Spectacular door design and easy access
C-Métisse implements a number of astonishing technical
solutions, particularly in terms of door design.
The first surprise is the presence of rear doors on a
vehicle that is nevertheless the embodiment of a well
designed coupé.
The second lies in the ballet that takes place when the
doors open, extending an impressive welcome to
passengers: the front doors open gull-wing style while
the rear doors spin round.
Looking beyond the stunning visual effect, this is
actually an efficient solution for easy access. The
doors rise up slightly on the roof – a major obstacle
when getting into extremely low vehicles – to provide
outstanding accessibility.
The parallelogram boot opening also contributes to the
overall looks of the car.
A driving position adapted to the driver
The driving position takes full advantage of
technological progress to integrate functions that allow
the driver to concentrate fully on the road, while also
maximising driving pleasure.
The following equipment is provided:
- a fixed-centred controls steering wheel that brings
the main comfort functions and driving aids (radio,
speed limiter, on-board computer, lighting, indicators
and windscreen wiper) within easy reach. This layout,
along with the steering-wheel mounted gear paddles,
avoids any unnecessary movements on the part of the
driver, who is able to enjoy driving pleasure to the
full;
- contact and start-up buttons on the roof console,
reinforcing the sensation of being in a fighter jet;
- a driving position corresponding to the optimum
position of the driver's eye, with a single height
adjustment to match this point; a suspended head
restraint anchored to the roof, and two rest
electrical functions to adjust the leather steering
wheel and aluminium pedal assembly. This innovative
layout optimises the driving position while
maintaining space for passengers in the back.
This high-tech equipment perfectly matches the design
of the driving position whose original central console
is divided by five extensions. Positioned between these
extensions are the aluminium gear shift lever and other
functions including the navigation system controls;
seat, steering wheel and pedal assembly adjustment; boot
controls, body height adjustment and the sport mode of
the suspension system.
The central console extends into the cabin via three
illuminated strips featuring a play of light that
informs passengers of the current mode of hybrid
propulsion (ZEV, recharge, boost, etc.). This play of
light is accompanied by sound effects that are
perceptible as soon as the doors are opened. These
sounds accompany certain driver actions (getting behind
the wheel, starting the car, navigation in the on-board
computer) and indicate the deployment of the aerodynamic
airfoils. With these features, C-Métisse comes alive. It
transcends the usual coldness of high-tech objects to
take on a form of existence that is almost "animal" in
nature.
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