Peugeot has officially begun taking pre-orders for its zero-emissions i0n electric car. Introduced to the public at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the i0n electric vehicle will launch towards the latter part of 2010.
Peugeot has already offered the i0n to businesses and local authorities across Europe, with the latest offering set to entice private buyers. The i0n will also be available through a number of car-sharing programs across Europe.
Based on the Mitsubishi i -MiEV, the Peugeot i0n is designed for busy urban areas. Its compact length of 3.48 meters allows for a turning radius of just 4.5 meters, yet the i0n offers seating for four. Power for the i0n is provided by an electric motor generating 64 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque, with a lithium-ion battery pack supplying the juice. Peugeot says the i0n has a range on 80 miles with a full recharge taking six hours. An 80 percent charge can be completed in just thirty minutes via a fast charging system. The i0n’s top speed is 80mph.
Pricing has yet to be announced but the i0n will carry ABS, ESP, traction control, six air bags, power windows and air conditioning as standard features.
