Citroën has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to concept cars. Their latest creation is a concept version of the C4 Cactus based on the lightweight Citroën Mehari 4x4 which was sold from 1968 to 1988. Taking strong design cues from the Mehari, the new Cactus M will be a two- door open-top version.
Designed to pay homage to the 1968 veteran, Citroën has altered all but the front and rear of the new concept. The two doors on this version are considerably longer than the those on the standard model, and are made entirely of plastic to keep the weight low. The windscreen has been angled above, giving the car a more spacious feel inside. Wheel arches too are slightly flared increasing the width marginally.
The canvas roof of the Cactus M can be converted into a tent and is enough to accommodate two. Citroën say the concept car has been created for the beaches, hence features a more basic cabin than in the Cactus, with drainage holes under the mats and standard surfboards mounted on the roof. The seat upholstery is also made from water-resistant fabric.
The powerplant will be the same 1.2 litre 108bhp petrol motor, borrowed from the Cactus. Citroen recently applied for the trademark on the e-Mehari name, suggesting the car could have an electric or hybrid powertrain.