London-based EV startup, Ark, has entered the competitive market of oddball micro electric vehicles (EVs) with its latest offering, the Zero. While quadricycles like the Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, Opel Rocks Electric, and Renault Twizy may seem unconventional to North American observers, these vehicles have carved out a small but significant niche that is projected to expand in the coming years.
At present, the Zero is exclusively available in the United Kingdom, where its price of £5,995 ($7,620) positions it as the country’s most affordable electric vehicle, undercutting the Ami and offering a cost-saving of £1,700 ($2,160). However, it should be noted that the Zero is also one of the slowest contenders in this category, with a top speed limited to 28 mph (45 mph). Its power is derived from a 3 hp (3 PS / 2.2 kW) electric motor. Ark claims that the 80 Ah battery provides a range of 50 miles (81 km) and can be fully charged in 6-8 hours for just £1 (80 cents).
Although the Zero’s true size is difficult to ascertain from images alone, the specifications reveal its diminutive nature. With dimensions measuring 98.4 inches (2,500 mm) in length, 47.3 inches (1,202 mm) in width, and 64 inches (1,625 mm) in height, the Zero is nearly 8 inches (200 mm) shorter and a staggering 18.1 inches (460 mm) narrower than the Smart ForTwo, which is widely recognized as a compact city car.
Due to its narrow body, the Zero’s driver sits directly ahead of any passenger, akin to Renault’s Twizy. However, the vehicle’s aluminum construction, combined with this seating arrangement, contributes to its impressively low curb weight of 1,078 lbs (489 kg). Unlike the Twizy, the Zero features proper doors with windows, enhancing its usability during inclement weather conditions. However, this design choice may not be aesthetically pleasing from all angles, except for its friendly, or some may argue slightly psychotic, front face reminiscent of a character from a Pixar movie. Buyers can select from a range of paint options, including red, black, gray, or the showcased white. Beyond these choices, personalization options are limited. The single available trim level offers a digital infotainment screen, LED lights, a sunroof, and a reversing camera.
While the Zero may not possess the same visual appeal as the Ami or Topolino, its substantial cost-saving of £1,700 makes it an attractive option for consumers in the UK, especially considering that these micro EVs are exempt from the London congestion charge. Ark’s official website already hints at the development of their next vehicle, leaving us curious about its design and whether it will resemble a sidekick of Lightning McQueen.
