Peugeot offers first glimpse of all-electric iOn

Peugeot has given the motoring world its first glimpse of the firm's new, all-electric iOn, ahead of the car's official UK launch later this year.

The iOn, which is based on Mitsubishi's electric i-Miev, offers motorists an efficient, spacious, safe and comfortable driving experience. Peugeot also says the car will offer unprecedented silence and a total absence of tailpipe emissions.

Until now, one of the biggest drawbacks with all-electric vehicles has been the limit of their potential range. However, Peugeot claims that the iOn's advanced energy management systems will give the vehicle a potential range of 93 miles.

According to an official Peugeot press release, this distance is enough to cover the vast majority of a motorist's daily trips, 90% of which are no more than 35 miles.

The car's Lithium-ion battery will take six hours to fully charge from a traditional household power socket. If owners are pushed for time, they can use a special charging unit to obtain a 50% charge in just fifteen minutes.

In terms of running costs, Peugeot claims that the iOn will cost just £2.50 per 120 miles, with owners able to further reduce this cost if they recharge the vehicle during 'off-peak' hours.

What Car? reports that the iOn will only be available on a lease basis. For £415 a month excluding VAT, adopters will get the car with a full warranty for four years or 40,000 miles. The car could offer drivers annual savings of £5150, which is sure to be a major incentive for anyone thinking of selling a car and investing in a more energy-efficient vehicle.

"The Peugeot iOn combines remarkable packaging with a spacious interior, ease of driving, high levels of safety, big car comfort levels and a high standard specification," Peugeot said in their iOn press release.

James Patrick, Kingsbridge, LAND ROVER DISCOVERY

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