A Compact EV with Citroën's Signature Style

Citroën has announced the compact electric vehicle "E-Mehari." Sales are scheduled to begin in France in the spring of 2016.

The name E-Mehari is derived from the compact open-top model " Mehari" released in 1968. It inherits not only the name but also the characteristics of the original Mehari, such as a fully removable roof, a high ride height for off-road capability, plastic body panels that are easy to maintain and resistant to minor scratches, and door panels with horizontal lines supported by external hinges.

The exterior features an avant-garde design based on the "C4 Cactus" and can be considered the production version of the "Cactus M" which also paid homage to the "Mehari" and appeared at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Its body dimensions are 3.81 meters in length, 1.87 meters in width, and 1.65 meters in height. It offers seating for four people and a luggage space of 200 liters, which can be expanded to 800 liters by folding down the rear bench seat.

Four body colors are available: blue, orange, yellow, and beige. These also echo the colors offered when the original Mehari was launched. The interior comes in natural beige or a high-tech orange-red, both featuring waterproof resin-coated fabric.

The E-Mehari boasts not only a unique character but also advanced technology, employing a Lithium Metal Polymer (LMP) battery.

This battery was developed by the French company Bolloré. It is a fully solid-state battery using metallic lithium for the anode and a polymer sheet for the electrolyte. Its non-volatile nature makes it safe and less susceptible to weather conditions.

This advanced battery powers a motor with a peak output of 50 kW and an average of 35 kW, achieving a top speed of 110 km/h and a range of 200 km in urban driving.

Rather than a typical compact car, Citroën has created a unique and enjoyable vehicle that leverages its heritage, embodying the brand's distinctive approach to building an EV city commuter.