Citroën, the French automaker known for its innovative and quirky designs, has recently unveiled its latest creation: the Citroen My Ami Pop. This electric micro-car is a refreshed version of the original Citroen Ami, launched in 2020 as a low-cost and eco-friendly alternative to public transportation and car-sharing services. The My Ami Pop aims to appeal to a younger and more tech-savvy audience with new features and a playful look. But what makes this tiny vehicle so special, and how does it fit into the future of urban mobility? Here are some of the key aspects of the My Ami Pop that you need to know.
It’s Not a Car, It’s a Quadricycle
One of the most distinctive features of the My Ami Pop is that it’s not classified as a car but as a light quadricycle. This means that it has a lower weight, power, and speed limit than a regular car, and it also has different legal requirements. In some European countries, such as France and Italy, you can drive the My Ami Pop without a driving license as long as you are at least 14 years old. In the UK, however, you need to be 16 and have a special license to drive it. The My Ami Pop is also exempt from certain taxes, insurance, and parking fees, making it more affordable and accessible than a conventional car.
It’s Small, But Spacious
The Citroen My Ami Pop is a very compact vehicle, measuring only 2.4 meters long and 1.4 meters wide. It can fit in almost any parking space and maneuver easily in narrow streets and traffic jams. Despite its small size, the My Ami Pop can accommodate two people comfortably, with enough room for their legs and luggage. The interior is minimalist and functional, with a USB socket, a smartphone holder, and a driving selector. The My Ami Pop also has a panoramic glass roof and windows that can be tilted manually, creating a sense of openness and airiness.
It’s Electric, But Not Powerful
The Citroen My Ami Pop is powered by an electric motor that produces 8 horsepower and a 5.5 kWh battery that can be charged in three hours using a standard household socket. The battery provides a range of up to 46 miles, which is enough for most urban trips. However, the My Ami Pop is not designed for speed or performance. It has a top speed of 28 mph, which makes it suitable for city driving but not for highways or long distances. The acceleration is also modest, taking 9.7 seconds to reach 18 mph. The My Ami Pop is more about convenience and sustainability than thrill and excitement.
It’s Fun, But Not Safe
The Citroen My Ami Pop is a fun and quirky vehicle that attracts attention and curiosity wherever it goes. It has a colorful and playful design, with new stickers and symbols that give it a retro-gaming vibe. It also has a rear spoiler that adds a touch of sportiness, even though it has no aerodynamic function. The My Ami Pop is a vehicle that doesn’t take itself too seriously and invites you to enjoy the ride and the scenery. However, the My Ami Pop is not a very safe vehicle. It has no airbags, ABS, ESP, or crash test rating. It also has a very basic structure, with plastic panels and doors that can be opened from the outside. The My Ami Pop is vulnerable to collisions and theft and offers its occupants little protection.
