Citroen Reveals Their New C-ZERO Electric Vehicle

Hybrid/Electric, New Cars | Dean | November 11, 2009 at 13:19

Citroen has announce d their new 100 percent electric vehicle, and it is called the C-ZERO. Citroen’s C-ZERO measures in at 3.48 meters long, and it is based on Mitsubishi’s i-MiEV, as well as Peugeot’s iOn vehicle.

The C-ZERO will use a permanent magnetic magnet synchronous motor and this will push out a mediocre amount of 47kW when in, and above, 3,000 RPM. The torque has been set at 180Nm, and this will be available between 0 and 2,000 RPM. The French automaker will add a 330-volt lithium ion battery pack to the car.

The entire system for the hybrid car works with a single-speed reduction gear transferring system, and this will send power to the rear wheels. The performance figures are also quite, mediocre. The 0-100km/h time comes in at 15 seconds, while the entire driving range will be 130km. Oh, we keep forgetting to tell ourselves that electric cars aren’t fast!

To change the car you will have to wait around 6 hours when using a 220V home socket, while it is indeed possible to charge 80 percent of the battery pack in only 30 minutes.

Features include a beeper to tell you when the car has been turned on, along with a electric charge gauge, ABS, electric windows, air conditioning, ESP and six airbags.

Sales should start during the last quarter of 2010.

Press Release

CITROËN C-ZERO: THE NEW 100% ELECTRIC CITY CAR

Zero fuel consumption, zero CO2 emissions and zero engine noise: with the C-ZERO, CITROËN is broadening its compact vehicle range with a 100% electric offering.

The new city car is designed to make urban mobility easier – thanks to its compact dimensions, rapid charge and generous range for day-to-day car journeys. And all of this in a silence that makes occupants forget about the noise of the city. The C-ZERO combines technology and creativity to meet tomorrow’s challenges today.

Having already produced more than 5,500 electric vehicles, CITROËN has the experience vital to being a front-runner in a market segment that is set to grow significantly in the coming years.

Due for launch in the last quarter of 2010, the C-ZERO is developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.

A NEW PRODUCT OFFERING CONSISTENT WITH CITROËN POLICY

Long committed to a policy of reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, CITROËN – a leading manufacturer of low CO2 cars – is adding the C-ZERO to a range that already features a wealth of environmentally respectful products.

Current CITROËN achievements:

* New C3 and DS3 models emitting 99g/km of CO2 will be available from launch in 2010.
* More than 30% of CITROËN vehicles sold emit less than 120g/km of CO2.

Up-coming technologies:

* Widespread application of second-generation Stop & Start in 2010.
* Launch of a full-hybrid vehicle, the DS5, in 2011.

A 100% ELECTRIC VEHICLE

The CITROËN C-ZERO is a full-electric vehicle powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 47kW or 64bhp EEC from 3,000 to 6,000rpm. Maximum torque of 180Nm is available from 0 to 2,000rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear axle via a single-speed reduction gear.

The motor is powered by a latest-generation 330-volt lithium-ion battery system comprising 88 50Ah cells (for onboard energy of 16kWh), mounted in the centre of the vehicle. Lithium-ion technology keeps battery weight down compared with conventional technology, while offering equivalent performance. It is also resistant to partial re-charges, which have no impact on battery longevity.

EASY TO CHARGE, EASY TO USE

Re-charging the C-ZERO’s batteries could not be simpler. Owners plug the supply cord into a 220-volt socket. A complete charge takes six hours, while an 80% charge is possible in just 30 minutes using an external station with a single-phase current of 125A at 400V, for power of up to 50kW.

Using the car is equally simple. When the driver turns the ignition key, a beep confirms that the car is running. CITROËN C-ZERO drives like a regular car with an automatic gearbox. The traditional fuel gauge is replaced by a battery charge indicator.

PERFORMANCE & FEATURES FOR TODAY’S NEEDS

The CITROËN C-ZERO is perfectly adapted to the needs of all kinds of users – including public sector operators, local authorities, smaller businesses and company fleets – and also to those of private customers looking for a car with exceptionally low running costs.

With four real seats – thanks to a 2.55m wheelbase – and a 166 litre boot, the C-ZERO is impressively quiet to drive and boasts a plethora of comfort and safety equipment. Original-fit features include power steering, ABS, traction control, ESP, electric windows, six airbags and air conditioning.

A CITY CAR AT EASE ON THE OPEN ROAD

The C-ZERO’s compact exterior dimensions – 3.48m long – and a 9m turning circle, make it a cinch to nip in and out of city traffic. And with a top speed of 130kph (80mph), acceleration from 0-100kph (0-62mph) in 15 seconds and 60-90kph (37-56mph) in 6 seconds, along with a range of around 130km (80miles), over a standard combined cycle, it is also fully at ease out on the open road.

From 10th November, via www.c-zero.citroen.com, prospective customers who are interested in being one of the first to own a CITROËN C-ZERO, will be able to request an exclusive test-drive prior to placing a pre-order.