Overview
The Citroën Ami redefines the concept of an ultra-compact urban transporter. Officially classified as an electric quadricycle rather than a traditional car, it occupies a unique market position designed purely for tight urban environments. It aims to provide affordable mobility as an alternative to public transport, mopeds, or bicycles. It only has two seats and is available in only a right-hand-drive configuration but in the words of Citroën themselves, the car's so small that there's not much difference between the right and left seat!
Design
The exterior design of the Ami is a masterclass in cost-saving symmetry and minimalism. To drastically lower production costs, the front and rear plastic body panels are identical, distinguished only by the color of the lights. This symmetry extends to the doors, which are completely interchangeable. Meaning, the driver's side door is rear-hinged, while the passenger side door opens normally. It sits on quirky 14-inch wheels and features side windows that flap upwards as a nostalgic nod to the classic Citroen 2CV. Measuring just 2.41 meters in length and 1.39 meters in width, its cube-like footprint allows it to be parked in any orientation in standard bays.
Interior
Stepping inside reveals a stark, highly utilitarian cabin dominated by hard plastics. There is no traditional infotainment screen; instead, Citroen provides a central smartphone cradle alongside a basic digital instrument pod behind the steering wheel. The steering wheel is fixed and positioned exclusively on the left side for all markets. Air conditioning isn't available, replaced by a loud, single-speed fan with a basic heating and demisting function.
Performance & Powertrains
The mechanical setup across the entire Ami range runs from a tiny 6.3kWh battery. A tiny 6kW electric motor develops a whopping 8hp with a top speed limited to 28mph and a 0–28mph sprint taking 10 seconds. However, due to its lightweight construction, the powertrain delivers a substantial 625Nm of torque at the wheels, ensuring rapid off-the-line response in urban traffic. The official range stands at 46 miles. Charging is incredibly straightforward, using just a hardwired three-pin UK plug that achieves a 0–100% charge in approximately 4 hours from a standard socket. The lack of power steering isn't a problem when it only weighs 500kg, enabling agile handling and an exceptional turning circle of just 7.2 meters.
Practicality
Practicality inside localized into a 63-litre storage recess positioned ahead of the passenger's feet, alongside small nets in the doors and a central separation net.
Buying
Pricing starts at £7,695 for the entry-level Ami, moving up to £8,095 for the My Ami Colour variants. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the standard Ami as the colour variants only add cosmetic trims and wheel covers. However, for only an extra £400, they do add DAT@AMI for connecting your smartphone and more storage solutions.