Peugeot Ion (11 on) - Review

The Peugeot iOn has the same level of safety equipment as a conventional modern car. To dispel any myths about electric cars being dangerous, the iOn has achieved a four star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests. The battery pack components are all contained in a reinforced, hermetically-sealed casing. This is positioned under the passenger compartment floor, in the area most resistant to deformation, ensuring maximum protection in the event of an impact. Mounting the battery pack in this position also improves the vehicle’s weight distribution by lowering the centre of gravity. Safe recharging of the battery, either by a special quick charge unit or by means of the special connecting cable and a standard electrical socket, is controlled automatically according to the monitored parameters of the individual battery cells. Standard safety kit includes driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, ABS (anti-locking braking system), EBFD (electronic brakeforce distribution), TCL (traction control), EBA (emergency brake assist), ASC (active stability control), immobiliser, seat belt warning (front and rear passenger), two front three-point seatbelts with force limiters and pre-tensioners, two rear three-point seatbelts and two ISOFIX child safety seat mountings. All Peugeot iOn models have access to Peugeot Connect SOS which means that if any safety equipment is activated or the SOS button is pressed, the car’s occupants are automatically put in touch with an emergency call centre.

Until electric cars become a common sight on UK roads then the reliability and durability will be questioned. According to Peugeot the lithium battery can be charged as much you like but they do have a ten-year lifespan. There's few mechanical parts so this should help reliability and make it cheap to service. Peugeot Connect Assistance is available when you own/lease an iOn. Press the Peugeot Lion button and this automatically connects the user with the helpline. The vehicle’s location is determined automatically and emergency or repair services can quickly be dispatched to the scene.