LIVE: SEAT IBE Concept at Geneva 2010

All-electric concept previews future design direction for the Spanish brand

By Jack Rix

March 2010

SEAT has seen the light! The Spanish manufacturer has revealed its first-ever electric concept, the IBE – a 2+2 hatchback that’s shorter than an Ibiza, but wider than a Leon, and is aimed at introducing young motorists to the electric age.

Under the low-slung bonnet sits a 102bhp electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery-pack in the boot. Due to its compact dimensions performance is surprisingly good – 0-60mph in 9.4 seconds and a top speed of 100mph.

But as you might have guessed by looking at the car bold creases and exquisitely detailed headlights and alloy wheels – this concept is as much about design as it is zero-emissions driving. SEAT’s chairman, James Muir said that the IBE previews the firm’s future design direction, meaning you are effectively looking at the next Ibiza.

It also confirms the VW Group’s commitment to electric cars – a plan that VW CEO, Martin Winterkorn explained: “By 2012, three per cent of the VW Group’s total sales will be electric or hybrid cars. By 2018 I want the VW Group to be not only the most profitable, but the most environmentally friendly automotive brand.” And to back up SEAT's stunning concept, Audi wowed visitors to its stand with the A1 e-tron concept.

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2 Comments

Forget the electric version

Stick a petrol or diesel engine in it and put it on sale now.
The side window shape may be reminiscent of the current Audi A3 but the design is muscular, sporty and modern without resorting to the incongruous flourishes that typify non-European concept models. With a few subtle tweaks, a car looking very similar to this could be in showrooms soon.

By snappyuk on 4 March, 2010, 8:44am