This unique looking contraption is known as the 1988 Citroën Activa, which is the first car in a 2-car series consisting of the Activa, and the Activa 2, which were both concept cars that were developed by French automobile manufacturer, Citroën. The Activa was developed as a way for Citroën to test, and showcase future features and ideas that were intended for use on future production cars at the time, and the Activa name would later go on to be the name of the suspension used in the production large family car known as the Citroën Xantia. The Activa made it’s first official public debut in 1988 during the Paris Motor Show that year, and during which, showcased some wildly impressive design elements and features that went on to impress the crowds at the show that year. One of these unique features included the electronically controlled hydropneumatic suspension system which was combined with an active anti-roll bar, which enabled the Activa to automatically adapt to how the car was being driven, as well as eliminating almost all body roll. On top of the impressive suspension, the first Activa concept car also featured full hydraulically connected, single wheel independent four-wheel steering, anti-lock brakes and traction control, all of which were notable at the time. One of the more futuristic elements that was included on the Activa was electronically operated doors which could be opened and closed at the push of a button. The Activa 2 came along in the year 1990, and was slightly more refined, almost being considered for production before Citroën shelved the project entirely. While these unique designs didnt make it into production, the suspension technology would later appear on the companies XM model, as well as the Xantia model in 1993. Another feature that is found on the XM production car, but was first seen on the Activa concept is the heads-up display system, which projects vital driver information on the windshield.
How many made? 1
Engine: 3.0L SOHC PRV 24 valve V6 engine producing 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) at 6000 rpm
Debut: 1988 Paris Motor Show
Top Speed: n/a
0-60mph: n/a
Photo credit: @classictorque
Research: @rarecarsonly