Citroen’s CEO has announced that the company will build the Ami Buggy, an ‘off road’ style version of its tiny electric two seater city car.
You will have to be quick if you want one however – only 50 will be built and the order book will open next Tuesday (21st June). The company’s boss Vincent Cobee made the announcement on his LinkedIn, saying: “Next Tuesday, 50 copies of the Citroën Ami Buggy will be available to order, ... and not one more.”
The Ami Buggy was originally shown as a concept car in December 2021, and while some of the features have been toned down for the production car, it still retains the open look and feel.
Laurence Hansen, Director of Citroën Strategy and Product, said: “The public reacted enthusiastically when we presented the My Ami Buggy Concept and many customers asked for it. Today, we are pleased to be able to bring the spirit of this concept to life with this exclusive My Ami Buggy, and to illustrate once again the potential for customising Ami.”
Some of the concept's features have been toned down for production The Buggy features hinged metal tubing to replace the doors and a removable soft-top to make the most of the sun. Reminiscent of the fabric roofs on legendary Citroëns such as the 2CV, the protective grey fabric roof is detachable via snap fasteners, and can be rolled up and stored securely behind the seats.
Eurig Druce, Managing Director of Citroën UK, commented: “The introduction of a limited run My Ami Buggy clearly demonstrates how customer reaction can help to shape Citroën’s product planning. It’s only available in France for now, and I know it will be a huge success. If there’s sufficient interest from customers here, then there’s every conceivable chance we could see future versions of My Ami Buggy on sale in the UK.”
The limited run of 50 vehicles will be available in France via the special website. Deliveries will commence on Monday 8th August. However, the rumour from inside Citroen is that more Buggy-inspired limited editions may be available in 2023, and some could be earmarked for the UK.
All versions of Ami feature a 8 bhp electric motor, a top speed of 27.9mph and a 5.5kWh battery giving a range of 46 miles. A charging cable is built into the passenger door frame, which attaches (using a supplied adapter) to a Type 2 connector, allowing a full charge to be completed in three hours from a home wall box or a public charging point.
The wheels are less extreme, but the car has gained a fold back roof