Peugeot BB1 Concept

At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show Peugeot has presented the BB1 Concept, an ultra-compact, lightweight electric vehicle capable of transporting four passengers in just 2.5 meter of length. It features solutions and technologies inspired by the motorcycle world.

The BB1 is based on a tubular chassis designed by Peugeot Motorcycles, and the body is made up of carbon fibre. The weight is limited to 600 kg.

Among the exterior styling cues are the extended wheelarches,low door waistline, reverse opening doors and the double bubble roof, similar to the RCZ, which integrates solar cells.

The BB1 is powered by two rear-mounted electric motor, each developing 20hp, coupled with two lithium-ion battery packs located under the rear seats, which allow for a range of 75 miles.

Capable of seating four people in a vehicle just 2.5 metres long, the BB1 concept car is a full electric vehicle that reinvents the automobile in architecture, style, interior design, interior space, connectivity – while respecting the environment.

Access to the vehicle is through the reverse opening doors, while the load area access is through an innovative tail board / tailgate design.

The style of the vehicle highlights the interior space and the unique driving position. With its bold styling lines at the front, large glazed surface area, low door waistline (for the passenger compartment ventilation system) and extended wheel arches, the car represents a move away from current vehicle design.

The BB1 includes an extensive range of interactive technologies. The colour multi-function display and the vehicle's audio system provide the ideal link for all the functionalities of a “smart phone”: telephone, navigation, Internet access, radio, MP3.

Similarly, the rear-view cameras remove the need for mirrors, optimising the width of the vehicle and improving its aerodynamics, while adding to the high-tech feeling of the interior.

The name "BB1" isn't only a reference to Peugeot's history and the "Baby Peugeot" models of 1905 and 1912.

(Car Body Design's news)