Citroën is the latest car maker to reveal a new zero emissions vehicle – the C-Zero, thanks to a joint venture with Mitsubishi Motors
Based on the i-MIEV, the latest model is powered by a single electric motor capable of producing 63bhp and 133lb ft of torque, driven via a single gear. With a top speed of 80mph, and the ability to complete the zero to 62mph dash in 15 seconds, the C-Zero has a range of around 80 miles. Instead of the more usual fuel gauge, there’s a battery charge indicator fitted to the dash.
The electric motor is powered by a 330-volt lithium-ion battery system and is mounted in the centre of the car. To recharge, owners can plug the C-Zero into a 220-volt socket, and a complete charge takes six hours. An 80 per cent charge is possible in only 30 minutes using a more sophisticated charging station with a singlephase current of 125A at 400 volts, for power of up to 50kW. On sale from the end of 2010, the fully electric, four-seat C-Zero will join the Peugeot i0n and Mitsubishi i-MIEV in showrooms, all of which are based on a common platform.
