iOn (France, 2011)

Peugeot's first 100% electric vehicle, the iOn, is powered by a Neodyme (Nd) synchronous permanent magnet electric motor, which has a a maximum power of 47 kW.h (64 bhp) and maximum torque of 180 Nm from 0 to 2000 rpm. Thanks to the inverter, the motor and the reduction gearing Peugeot’s EV is able to reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h. The iOn is fed by a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides a range of 150 km, which is sufficient to cover the majority of motorists’ daily trips, 90% of which are less than 60 km.

In terms of recharging the lithium-ion batteries fitted on the iOn have no memory effect, which means that they can be recharged, even partially, without the need for regular complete discharges. A full recharge is made in six hours using a single-phase 220 V household supply via a five metre cable fitted with a standard socket and a special plug for connection to the vehicle. A quick recharge by means of a special recharging unit connected to a three phase 380 V electrical supply takes fifteen minutes to provide 50% battery capacity and 30 minutes for 80% capacity. According to Peugeot the energy cost of the iOn is fixed between €1.50 and €2.00 per 100 km.

The Peugeot iOn offers a driving experience of tranquility due to the car’s silent operation, the absence of vibrations from the power train and the simplicity of no gear changes.

In terms of design, with its 3.48 m long, 1.47 m wide and 1.6 high, the iOn is a compact city run about. It has a curvaceous small domed bonnet extended by a large inclined front windscreen. With the iOn, Peugeot displays a specific badge, a first in the Marque’s history. The bonnet of the iOn features a pearlescent white/ chrome Lion, a special feature of zero emission vehicles. Besides the badge, the iOn also has a “Full Electric” logo placed on the rear wings.