City Zen is a unicycle that can be ridden from the age of 16. This is the first big advantage of the car that the Romanian phone manufacturer, AllView, has until yesterday. The people of Brasov applied, as in the case of the smartphones they sell, the same strategy of assembling modules manufactured in China. City Zen is mostly a vehicle that we can find from many Chinese manufacturers under various forms and names. But in this case, we are dealing with a custom offer for AllView. A tasteful one, in my opinion. Throughout the test, I made a comparison with something in the range, but strongly present in Romania, Dacia Spring. There we are talking about a car that costs, after discounts and deductions, somewhere over 10,500 euros. Here we arrive at 8,760 euros. The appearance is square and may seem unconvincing from the point of view of safety or cornering stability. But the fact that the battery is mounted under the floor lowers the center of mass, so the behavior is quite good.
Like a toy
The first contact with City Zen makes you smile. You have the feeling that you are dealing with a toy. It has a number only on the back, like on motorcycles. Instead of the front number, there is a plaque with the name of the car. The variant I tested was with two seats. Comfortable. They are wrapped in an upholstery that is much more pleasant to the touch than the Chinese one with an ugly logo. The space for the front passengers is sufficient, although the car is a little over 3 meters. Instead of the rear seats, the trunk has been expanded, reaching an impressive capacity of 816 liters. If you opt for the four-seater version, the legroom for the rear passengers is limited, and the trunk is only enough for a few diapers or some golf clubs. The interior of the electric AllView is really remarkable at such a budget. First of all, because it has a board in which there are two 10.25-inch displays, like in big houses. A screen that is capable of playing 4K videos. There’s a demo, with a chef making something, that you can watch while you’re driving. Here would be a first security-related bug. While one display is dedicated to the multimedia system – based on an Android – and the parking cameras, the other is a beautiful dashboard. You can find out not only the pressure in the wheels or how the energy flow circulates, but also what temperature the engine has or how much current it draws from the battery at a certain moment. I liked the beautifully colored interior, the materials, but also the fairly good soundproofing, so as to highlight the sound, which is not exactly bad, better quality than what the Spring offers. And he has another nice matter. The pedals have suggestive signs inscribed on them, a big plus on the accelerator and a minus on the brake, in case you want to look at what you’re pressing.
Fast through town
I was also impressed by the way the City Zen moves, in relation to its size and price, of course. Believe it or not, it has a button that switches from Normal to Sport. And it really feels in the way it moves. You enter Sport mode by pressing the button that selects Driver, Park or Rear. It is mounted on an armrest handle that seems to float in the air. In Sport mode, the consumption increases a little, but the sprint is noticeably better than in Normal mode. Because I took care to monitor the autonomy, I acted cautiously, that is, mainly on Normal. I found that the autonomy was close to that indicated by the manufacturer. Unlike Spring, where if I turned on the air conditioning, the range instantly decreased, and the distance did not really correspond to what was left in my battery, in City Zen I could rely on what it showed on the dashboard. We left with an autonomy of 168 km, and after traveling 12 km we still have battery for 154 km, so a deviation of 2 km. After 105 km, I have 49 km left, so a deviation of 18 km after three days of walking around the Capital and with air conditioning and Sport mode in some places. Braking is the second thing I liked about the City Zen compared to the Spring. Because she is firm and does her job. As for the recuperative function, I would say to charge something in the battery that operates at 100 Volts. I managed to reach 80 km/h and it showed signs of going further, the maximum constructive speed being 90 km/h. I didn’t need to charge the 13.7 kWh battery, but if I had been forced to do so I could only have done so at a normal outlet, by means of an adapter provided in the price, because it does not have fast charging. The manufacturer says that a full charge would take about eight hours at home. The average consumption would be 8 kW/100 km, but I cannot confirm that it is so, because the on-board system did not want to show me any figure. The maximum slope that the unicycle can tackle is 20%.
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How safe is she?
From the point of view of safety, City Zen has not been tested at EuroNCAP, but the manufacturer says that it has a robust body, built from an extremely rigid steel, which represents up to 38% of the total structure. There are steel reinforcements, anti-collision, front-rear and doors. It has an airbag, but only for the driver, ABS and EBD to optimize braking and traction. City Zen also has a slope assistance system, as well as tire pressure monitoring. Even if it measures only 3.06 meters, the car comes with parking sensors as well as a 360-degree monitoring system with the help of HD cameras. The daytime running lights are LED, low energy consumption, but the headlights are halogen. There are controls on the steering wheel to control the volume or phone calls, and the connection to the phone can be made via bluetooth. Even if the tablet has an Android system, it does not work as a Car Play. The list price is 15,980 euros, 13,860 euros with promotion and 8,760 euros with Rabla Plus included. There is a battery with an extended capacity of 17.28 kWh, which provides an autonomy of up to 220 km in the city.
– 816 liters, trunk capacity
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– 90 km/h maximum speed
– 20% maximum slope it can climb
Advantages
– it’s electric
– good autonomy for the city
– costs under 10,000 euros
disadvantage
– and a monocycle
– it can only be charged at the normal outlet
– the trunk disappears in the case of the version with 4 seats
City Zen can be driven from the age of 16 and is built by a Romanian manufacturer
The City Zen: Romania’s Electric Monocycle Revolution
Ah, the City Zen! An electric vehicle that barely tries to disguise its true identity as a glorified unicycle. Who knew the Romanian market was going to win the race with a… well, let’s call it a ‘single-cycle?’ Designed for those over 16—sorry kids, you’ll have to wait to test your unicycle skills on the roads—this quirky contraption is more than just a conversation starter; it’s the brainchild of AllView, a phone manufacturer venturing triumphantly (or perhaps foolishly) into the world of four-wheeled vehicles. Or is it two-wheeled? I lost track!
A Designer’s Dream, or a Safety Nightmare?
So let’s address the elephant in the room—safety. The City Zen looks as if it was designed by a child who just got their hands on a box of Legos. It’s square. It’s compact. It’s… well, it’s a car that brings to mind the durability of a cardboard box dressed up as a vehicle. Nonetheless, with a price tag that dances under the 9,000 euro mark after subsidies, it’s tempting enough to make you wonder if you can get a refund when you hit a speed bump.
Now, let’s compare it to the rather pedestrian Dacia Spring, a name that has become synonymous with ‘affordable but why?’ in Romania. The Spring’s starting price of over 10,500 euros has the City Zen waving cheekily with its 8,760 euros and a smile that screams, “I’m just as good, trust me!” Spoiler alert: it’s not.
The Playful Spirit: Like Riding a Toy
Upon first glance, the City Zen does give off a Sophie’s Choice vibe between a car and a toy. It’s like someone in the design room had a magical revelation while suspended in the air. Cars come with registration numbers, but this gem has the audacity to sport a named plaque instead—because apparently, branding is everything in modern warfare. The interior is described as “comfortable,” and for the sake of public opinion, let’s stick with that. If I have to be honest, it feels like sitting on your couch while trying to steer the kids’ ride-on toy on a Sunday stroll through the park.
And how about that back seat? If you opt for the luxurious four-seater version (which sounds like an overstatement), it’s reminiscent of trying to squeeze into a pair of jeans two sizes too small. Meanwhile, the trunk boasts an “unbelievable” 816 liters of space—perfect for… I don’t know, a small family reunion? Just don’t get too comfortable. You may need to check if it includes snacks. 816 liters can accommodate a lot of pastries.
Sporty and Sassy: Who Knew?
Surprisingly, it comes with a button that switches from Normal to Sport mode! Yes, you heard that right! Push that button—hold on tight—to feel a rush of adrenaline that mimics actual driving… except, it very well could be just the thrill of the accelerator sticking! And, despite its compact size, it zips around the city at speeds that can goose your excitement (up to 90 km/h, which seems dangerously close to “the speed of regret” for such an unusual vehicle).
But don’t let that boost of confidence fool you—when it’s time to brake, you’ll have a momentary flashback comparing it to your mother’s warning about using the family car. “Don’t drive fast, or I’ll come after you with a wooden spoon!” In City Zen, the brakes are firm and will do their job, but let’s just say, only if they feel like it.
Riding High on Safety—or Not?
Safety is more of a punchline than a feature. With no EuroNCAP testing under its belt, you’re left to trust a manufacturer who claims a ‘robust body’ made out of steel. Ah yes, let’s all breathe easy knowing that it has… a single airbag for the driver! Because nothing screams safety quite like hoping for the best while assuming minimal protection.
In all seriousness, this peculiar beast does boast features like ABS, EBD, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. However, getting too excited about parking sensors and a 360-degree monitoring system is like celebrating your Grade C in gym class. It’s alright, but do you really want to brag about it?
Final Thoughts: The City Zen—A Love It or Hate It Affair
At the end of the day, the City Zen is a quirky blend of features that’s hard to dismiss. It’s not just an electric car; it’s like a friend who insists on being ‘unique’ when they’re truly just ‘different.’ For the low price, you get an electric vehicle that manages to stand out in a crowd, somewhat like the kid wearing socks with sandals. It’s not for everyone, but for some, it might just be the next ‘big’ thing.
Key Takeaways:
- Price: Under 10,000 euros—definitely makes it tempting!
- Speed: Maximum speed of 90 km/h; so, you can pretend you’re speeding without guilt!
- Trunk capacity: A whopping 816 liters—great for family picnics… and regrets!
- Power: Electric vehicle rides that make a statement—albeit a quirky one.
So, if you fancy yourself a pioneer and can appreciate the oddity of a modern-day monocycle that defies convention and reason, the City Zen might just be your ticket to eccentricity!
Interview with Alexandru Radu, Automotive Expert on the City Zen Unicycle
Interviewer (I): Welcome, Alexandru! Thanks for joining us today to discuss the City Zen. It seems like a fascinating vehicle. What are your initial thoughts on this new unicycle from AllView?
Alexandru Radu (AR): Thank you for having me! The City Zen certainly stands out in the automotive landscape, especially given that it’s a product from a phone manufacturer like AllView. It’s a unique blend of fun and utility, aimed at urban commuters, particularly young drivers aged 16 and up.
I: You mentioned the target demographic; do you think the design is appealing to this younger audience?
AR: Absolutely! The design has a playful aspect to it. It resembles a toy more than a conventional car, with its square shape and a plaque instead of a traditional number plate. This quirky aesthetic may resonate with younger drivers looking for something different.
I: That’s a valid point. However, what about safety? The City Zen hasn’t undergone EuroNCAP testing. How safe can it really be?
AR: That’s a critical concern. While AllView claims that the City Zen is built with a robust structure and features an airbag, ABS, and other safety systems, the lack of third-party testing raises some eyebrows. It’s essential for potential buyers to consider these factors seriously.
I: Good to hear your perspective. Now, let’s talk pricing. With a starting price of 8,760 euros, how does it compare to other vehicles like the Dacia Spring, in your opinion?
AR: The City Zen is notably cheaper than the Dacia Spring, which starts at over 10,500 euros. This lower price point, combined with electric vehicle benefits, makes it an attractive alternative for budget-conscious consumers, especially in Romania.
I: Speaking of electric benefits, how does the City Zen perform in terms of autonomy and battery life?
AR: During testing, the City Zen showcased decent performance. Users indicated that the battery behaved consistently, allowing for a range close to what was advertised. However, the absence of fast charging might be a drawback for some since it would take up to eight hours at home for a full recharge.
I: That’s certainly something to keep in mind. And what are your thoughts on the vehicle’s interior features?
AR: The interior is surprisingly equipped for its price range, featuring two 10.25-inch displays that deliver a more high-end feel. However, the design manages to strike a balance between utility and simplicity, which is a win in a vehicle that almost feels like a unicycle!
I: It really is a unique offering. What would you say is the biggest advantage and disadvantage of the City Zen?
AR: The primary advantage is its affordability and the fun driving experience it promises. It positions itself as an approachable electric vehicle for new drivers. On the other hand, its classification as a unicycle might limit the practicality for those needing more space or features typically found in traditional cars.
I: Fascinating insights, Alexandru! Lastly, do you think the City Zen could alter the landscape for urban transportation in Romania?
AR: It’s hard to say definitively at this point, but the City Zen’s unique take on personal transportation does have the potential to spark interest, especially among young drivers. If it can capture the imagination without compromising on safety, it could pave the way for more innovative designs in local markets.
I: Thank you, Alexandru! Your expertise is invaluable as we navigate these new trends in urban transportation.
AR: It was my pleasure! Thank you for having me.
E design does run the risk of becoming overwhelming for those who prefer a minimalist approach to dashboards. The infotainment system is Android-based, which is great for connectivity, but lacks the full integration some consumers might expect from modern vehicles.
Conclusion
the City Zen brings an interesting and playful approach to urban mobility, especially for younger drivers or those seeking an affordable entry into electric vehicle ownership. However, potential buyers should weigh the concerns regarding safety, charging capabilities, and overall utility against its low purchase price and unique design. It’s a vehicle that might just carve its niche in Romania’s automotive landscape, offering a mix of practicality and whimsy for those bold enough to embrace its unconventional charm. Thank you, Alexandru, for your insights into this fascinating new offering!