The CITROËN C-ZERO electric car: First test drive

Very soon after setting off in the Citroën C-ZERO on our test drive earlier this week, it became clear that here is an electric car that offers enough performance and range to be a viable option for many motorists.

From the both outside and the driver’s seat, the C-Zero is virtually indistinguishable from any other city car. The fully-electric is as well appointed as you would expect with four full-sized seats, a 166-litre boot, power steering, ABS, traction control, ESP, electric windows, six airbags and air conditioning.

The performance will be adequate for the vast majority of city drivers. The C-Zero has a top speed of 80mph, has a 0-62mph time of 15 seconds and is able to travel 80 miles, over a standard combined cycle, before its batteries need charging.

Paper performance to one side, the car feels sure footed and lively enough to hold its on on the roads.

A complete charge takes six hours, while an 80% charge is possible in just 30 minutes using a rapid charger.

A spokesperson for the Environmental transport Association (ETA) said: “On the road the C-Zero felt lively, but this is hardly the point of such a car – its unique selling points are its non-existent tailpipe emissions and zero engine noise.”

How much will the CITROËN C-ZERO cost?

The C-Zero is being built in partnership with Mitsubishi and as such shares its shape and components, apart from its interior, with the i-MiEV.

The i-MiEV is expected to cost over £35,000 when it goes on sale later this year, and whilst it seems likely that Citroen will try to make the price of the C-Zero more palatable by leasing the battery separately, do not expect it to compete on price with its petrol and diesel-powered equivalents.

CITROËN C-ZERO