Citroen presents the C-Zero, based on the Mitsubishi i-MiEV

The C-Zero is Citroen’s version of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric city car, joining its twin the Peugeot iOn, which was launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The C-Zero is expected to be launched at the end of 2010, and is essentially an i-MiEV with Citroen badges.

The C-Zero has permanent magnet synchronous motor that produces 64bhp and 180Nm, and is powered by a 330-volt lithium-ion battery that consists of 88 50Ah cells. The whole system works with a single-speed reduction gear transferring power to the rear wheels, and can offer a range of 130km. 0-100km/h comes up in about 15 seconds, and the C-Zero can reach a top speed of 130km/h.

The battery can be fully recharged in six hours using a standard 220V home socket, while a quick charge offering 80% capacity can also be had if a 400V external station is used. A beeper alerts the driver when the motor is switched on, while the normal fuel gauge has been replaced with a battery charge indicator. Other features include ABS, electric windows, air conditioning, ESP and six airbags.