LARGE French fleets will be the first customers of Citroen's Xsara Windows CE, a limited edition range of cars that include voice-activated information systems.

The hi-tech Xsara Windows CE enables drivers to make telephone calls, operate a navigation system and change CDs without taking their hands from the wheel or their eyes from the road. It also enables the driver to send and receive e-mails. Patrick Sicot, head of Citroen's multi-media and telematics projects, said two series of 250 Xsara Windows CE would be produced, with the cars likely to command a FF20,000 (€3,200) supplement over the standard model. He added that fleets would be the primary customers because they would understand how the extra cost would translate to commercial benefits by keeping in contact with drivers in a safe environment. (April 2000)