One major set back stopping electric cars from going mainstream is the 6-8 hour charge times. The Italian car company Tazzari, with help from NICE car company, have announced that the new Zero will charge in 45 minutes. The only draw back is that the power source must be three-phase. Three-phase power is more likely available in commercial areas, but some urban residential areas (which all are currently on one-phase) may be able to do the costly upgrade to three-phase (i.e. rewire entire house and become directly powered from a major source). Unfortunately the Zero will take 10-hours to recharge on single-phase power.

The Zero's compact two-door design weighs less than 1,200 pounds, thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials. That light curb weight ensures an all-electric range of nearly 100 miles – more than enough for most city commuters. Powered by Lithium Ion batteries it will manage a top speed of 56mph and 0-30mph in under five seconds. Not jaw dropping numbers but perfect for city dwellers.

No official word of when the Tazzari is expect to hit the market, but look for the EV city car to be available in France, England and Italy when it finally does make production.

Check out the Tazzari Zero Sight for more information.

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