The latest innovation from Europe, an ultra-small city car, that isn’t actually a car, is coming to UK shores courtesy of Citroen.

While it may fool some into thinking that it is a smaller Smart car, the AMI is classified as an electric quadricycle and with a top speed of just 28mph you can understand why it has got a lot missing under the bonnet.

But following a successful launch on the continent, where 14-year-olds are legally allowed to drive it, the AMI is going to be seen on British roads (but not motorways) after 12,000 pre-registered their interest in purchasing one.

Unfortunately for the younger drivers, British law says that you will have to have a driving licence to get behind the wheel, and those who suffer from range anxiety might be concerned by the range of just 43 miles. However, it certainly had its perks, particularly for those who want to drive in cities and avoid the congestion and emissions charges.

“The response to Ami has been overwhelming, and the momentum has just built up to a point we can’t say no,” said Citroen managing director Eurig Druce. “It’s not just a vehicle with a following, either; the Ami embodies one view we have of future transport, around affordability and usability. Selling it here gets those values across in a way that no marketing campaign ever could.”

With an anticipated retail price of £6,000 it is easy to see why the the AMI might appeal, and speaking to Autocar, Citroen’s CEO revealed that they had sold thousands of the quadricycles to buyers who hadn’t even stepped foot in a showroom.

“The philosophy of the Ami is that it should be as affordable as a mobile phone,” said Citroen CEO Vincent Cobée

“For us, it is both one expression of what Citroen today is about and it opens up a way into a new e-commerce economy. It is a vehicle we can learn from.

“Today, Citroën is about delivery personal mobility in an engaging, affordable way. If we all want 500km of range, all-round performance and full autonomy then we must all be ready to pay £100,000 for a family car. At Citroën we don’t believe that is the right way, and we will be militant in our efforts to provide alternatives.”

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