ARK ZERO: THE AFFORDABLE ELECTRIC MICROCAR
The Ark Zero electric microcar is a London-built EV billed as the UK's most affordable electric car, priced at £5995. Designed for city driving, this compact two-seater offers a range of just over 50 miles (80 kilometers) and a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), making it ideal for urban runs rather than the motorway.
What is the Ark Zero?
Built by EV start-up Ark, the Ark Zero is a microcar dubbed the UK's most affordable electric car at £5995. Designed specifically for urban environments, it has a range of just over 50 miles (80 kilometers) and a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), which keeps it off the motorway but perfectly suited to congested streets. Despite its tiny footprint, the cabin comfortably accommodates two passengers and a pet. According to Autocar, deliveries of the £5995 quadricycle have already begun.
How small is this affordable electric car?
Measuring 98.4 inches (250 cm) in length, 47.3 inches (120 cm) in width and 64 inches (162 cm) in height, the Ark Zero is a small electric car built for navigating congested city streets, riding on a 67.7 inch (172 cm) wheelbase. While it is considered a competitor to the Citroen Ami, the growing popularity of smaller, more affordable electric vehicles across Europe suggests a broader market for cars like it. Coverage from Electrek frames the Zero as one of the most affordable electric microcars yet to reach customers.
What are Ark Motors' plans beyond the Zero?
Despite its compact design, Ark Motors claims the Ark Zero is the most functional car since the Ford Model T. The start-up emphasizes addressing market demand efficiently and affordably, without unnecessary over-engineering. The company intends to release an A-segment car in the near future, though no further details have been disclosed. Ark Motors has also created a buzz by announcing plans to launch autonomous ride-hailing services in London, although details remain scarce. The professionalism shown during the Ark Zero launch suggests the involvement of larger players who have chosen to stay quiet for now.
How to buy the Ark Zero and explore similar electric microcars
Although initially targeting the domestic market, Ark Motors has ambitions to expand into other countries, and interested buyers can only purchase the Ark Zero online through the company's website, aligning with its digital-focused approach. If the idea of a compact city EV appeals to you, TheArsenale curates its own small electric machines: discover the Duo by TheArsenale electric microcar, the Smart Bleu by TheArsenale Edition electric car and the Smart Electric Drive Blackout by TheArsenale.
For more clean, city-friendly EVs, browse the TheArsenale Electric collection of renewable-energy vehicles.
Photo: ARK
