Citroen has just unveiled its latest concept, the Oli EV (pronounced all-e). The Oli concept aims to make mobility an affordable, responsible and joyful experience. The automaker describes the new EV concept as a “working platform” and prefers to call the it a "multi-purpose electric device” instead of just a car. Building on the funky Ami electric hatchback, the Oli concept features unconventional design elements that focus on functionality, durability, and efficiency. The Oli concept also shows Citroen’s focus on producing lightweight, simple, and affordable EVs in the future.
Citroen Oli – Design
Being a concept, the French automaker has purposefully designed the Oli with exaggerated styling. The Oli has more than a passing resemblance to the original Hummer in its silhouette. The car features a flat and upright windshield that cuts down the amount of glass needed and reduces the passengers’ exposure to the sun. Citroen says that the windshield could cut the AC’s demand on the battery by up to 17%.
Citroen says that it has tried to utilise the lightest and most responsible materials in the Oli concept. The roof, pick-up bed panels, and flat bonnet are all made from recycled honeycomb cardboard. Even the tyres, Goodyear’s Eagle GO concept, are almost entirely made of sustainable or recycled materials and can be regrooved twice before they need to be replaced.
Citroen Oli – Interior
Moving to the inside, the Citroen Oli uses just 34 parts for the dashboard and centre console. compared to 75 in a similarly-sized hatchback. The centre console itself is unlike any modern car, with no infotainment screens or displays. Instead, the central beam houses an electrified rail where you can plug your own accessories via USB ports that slide along with it. Your phone can double up as your infotainment system as once plugged in, it merges with the vehicle to show data like speed and charge level.
The seats in the Citroen Oli are made of tubular frames and base cushions made from fully-recycled polyester. Compared to a traditional seat, the Oli’s seat uses 80% fewer parts. Like the exterior, Citroen is making the interior of the concept as simple and sustainable as it can be.
Citroen Oli – Powertrain
Citreon says that the Oli’s electric powertrain will only have a 40kWh battery to deliver a driving range of up to 400 kms. The automaker has also said that top speed will be limited to 110 kmph only to maximise efficiency. The Oli’s battery will support fast charging, taking just 23 minutes to charge from 20 to 80%.
Read Also: Citroen India to Introduce its First Electric Car by 2023
