PREVIEW

Citroën has unveiled a new concept car that looks like a giant orange - but acts as a tiny camper van.

The electric 'ELO' car is just 4.1 metres long - smaller than a Mini Countryman - but contains a spacious cabin that can function as a living and sleeping area.

Its bright and playful look is intended to appeal to drivers with active lifestyles, while inside, the space is “ultra-modular” and able to accommodate up to six people.

When folded down, the interior is adaptable for commuting, family travel, leisure, remote working, or impromptu overnight trips.

In its standard form, ELO features four seats, with the driver positioned centrally beneath a 180-degree windscreen for enhanced visibility. The driver’s seat can rotate for conversation or work, while a simple and modern interface is designed to be intuitive. Two extra seats can be unfolded when needed, and the entire interior can also convert into a double sleeping space, a home cinema or a power hub for outdoor activities.

The engineers and designers partnered with Decathlon to explore new materials and features inspired by sport and outdoor activities, while Goodyear developed bespoke smart tyres suitable for both on- and off-road use.

Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon, said: “ELO is an ideas laboratory that perfectly embodies Citroën’s values and opens up perspectives on what drives our thinking today. It ticks all the boxes of what has been the brand’s DNA for more than 100 years and what I want to nurture in the coming years: creative, bold, accessible, responsible, ingenious and dedicated to well-being.”

Pierre Leclercq, the company’s Style Director, is proud the design is both eye-catching and allows for all kinds of lifestyle choices.

“ELO is a bubble of energy, both in terms of its colourful and endearing personality and its modernity, but also in terms of all the possibilities it offers for enjoying an intense and rich life,” he explained. “The Citroën Design team had a lot of fun coming up with a model designed down to the smallest detail to be practical, fun and clever.”