Citroën adds Mild Hybrid Powertrain to C5 Aircross CUV
Citroën added a mild hybrid powertrain to its C5 Aircross CUV line-up claiming a cut of 15% CO2 emissions compared to its equivalent pure ICE sibling.
Its new Hybrid 136 powertrain features a 48-volt battery pack that re-charges in use, a 134bhp PureTech gasoline engine that has been designed to accommodate the new system, coupled to a new electrified dual-clutch ë-DCS6 gearbox and a 21kW electric motor. Emitting only 129g of CO2/km according to the combined WLTP cycle, C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 also emits almost 12% less CO2 than even the diesel-powered version. The new powertrain enhances the C5 Aircross electrified range, which also includes the Plug-in Hybrid 225.
Powertrain details
Citroën’s new 48V hybrid technology allows for either mixed or 100% electric driving. The lightweight and compact hybrid technology is based upon:
- A new-generation 1.2-liter PureTech gasoline engine developed with 40% new parts and featuring with three cylinders delivering peak power at 5,500 rpm and torque of 169ft-lbs at 1,750 rpm.
- A variable geometry turbocharger and timing chain contributes to the new powertrain’s performance and robustness.
- The permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor can develop peak power of 26bhp and torque of 40ft-lbs. It allows C5 Aircross to be driven on 100% electric power for low torque requirements, at low speeds and assists the gasoline engine when starting. During deceleration, it acts as a generator to charge the battery.
- A new electrified dual-clutch gearbox – ë-DCS6 – comes with a six-speed dual-clutch system with no torque break. The electric motor, the inverter and the ECU are all integrated saving space in the engine bay.
- A 48V lithium-ion battery pack, with an available capacity of 432Wh, is installed under the left front seat, so there is no impact on trunk size or interior space.
- In addition, thanks to a voltage converter, part of the electricity produced by the 48V electric system is transformed into 12V power to supply the car’s on-board equipment.
European order books for C5 Aircross Hybrid 136 open in June, with first deliveries expected in July.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
