The Citroën Ami, this small, lightweight electric quadricycle with a motor, is enjoying great success in Europe. There is no shortage of nice variations paying homage to certain iconic models of the automobile industry, like this version which is inspired by the 2CV Charleston.
Who would have thought that the Citroën Ami would be such a success? You only have to walk along the sidewalks next to a (private) high school to realize the success of this small motorized quadricycle among young people, but also those not so young. Citroën announced in November 2023 that it had already sold 43,000 copies throughout Europe.
Remember that this small “light motor quadricycle” does not require a driving license, in any case no B license, but the AM license (which requires seven hours of training), formerly called BSR. The Citroën Ami is thus available for the elderly at least 14 years old.
The most luxurious Citroën Ami?
With a past like that of Citroën, indulging in neo-retro fashion is a lot of fun, even if the brand doesn’t necessarily benefit from it. Never mind, independents are doing it, and it produces some pretty cool products, like this Citroën Ami model which directly echoes the 2CV Charleston from the 1980s.
The “Citroën Ami Charleston” is to the credit of Italian designer Massimo Biancone, who not only bears the name of the famous 2 CV Charleston. Its dress in fact pays homage to it, with a two-tone black and Rouge Delage, recalling the lateral curvature of the original model which, although difficult to adapt to the cubic shapes of the electric license-free car, offers a fun little neo-retro side. . Everyone will have their opinion.
A Citroën Ami not really cheap
And the atmosphere continues inside with comfort seats equipped with houndstooth upholstery, rubber mats and a central rear-view mirror. The steering wheel is inspired by that of the 2 CV, while a shower of accessories is added. These include a leather briefcase, a notebook and pencil made with Pininfarina, a parking disc, and a leather backpack. A canvas sunroof is even available as an option.
Friend Charleston // Source: Massimo Biancone
Friend Charleston // Source: Massimo Biancone
For the moment, alone 150 copies are planned for production, while around thirty pre-orders have already been recorded. The price of this high-end version? “Less than 11,000 euros”according to its creator, or around 3,000 euros more than the base model. Not cheap, especially since the technical specifications do not change, with a speed limited to 45 km/h and a 5.5 kWh battery which allows a range of 75 km maximum.
New proof that this little Friend sharpens creativity; Citroën had already taken part in the game with a crazy Buggy version, with khaki paint and no doors.
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