Citroën has revealed its Aircross crossover concept ahead of its debut at the Shanghai Motor Show as the carmaker shows the evolution of the C4 Cactus styling as well as its plans for plug-in hybrid technology.

As PSA Peugeot Citroën morphs into three brands with the launch of DS as a standalone brand, Citroën said the model confirms the brand’s ability to develop its new positioning and illustrates its international ambitions, building on the success of the C4 Cactus, with a body style intended for worldwide sale.

The carmaker also hinted at how the crossover concept could be used to influence other model styles saying that it “illustrates Citroën’s ability to assert its identity in all vehicle segments”.

Built on the PSA EMP2 scalable platform, the concept measures 4.58m long by 2.10m wide and 1.73m high with a 2.8m wheelbase.

The concept brings in C4 Cactus elements including the ‘Alloy Bumps’ and ‘Air Signs’ motifs as well as vibrant orange-red paintwork.

The interior is said to represent a new approach to travel with specially designed storage compartments and the use of luggage style ‘straps’.

Citroën Aircross is powered by plug-in hybrid petrol technology, using a 218bhp 1.6 THP petrol engine with a 95bhp electric motor located on the rear axle.

Combined cycle fuel consumption is 166mpg (1.7 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions are 39g/km.

The Citroën Aircross accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and has an electric range of 31 miles (50km).

The motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries that charge up in three and a half hours via a 16A domestic socket.

The concept car is also equipped with two 12-inch HD screens, one of which moves across the dashboard to enable viewing by all passengers. Each seat is equipped with speakers and microphones to encourage dialogue between the occupants.

The Citroën Aircross concept car will be unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show later this month, with Citroën saying the venue was chosen to reflect the importance of the Chinese market, which accounts for 25% of total sales and stands as Citroën’s number-one market.