The 2008 Dodge ZEO—Zero Emissions Operation—concept
vehicle is a four-passenger, all-electric, 2+2 sport wagon that embraces the
bold, emotional characteristic of the Dodge brand. With its 23-inch
wheels-to-the corners, heroic proportions and muscular forms, the ZEO exhibits
a new youthful breed of muscle-machine interface.
The advanced propulsion system powering the Dodge
ZEO concept is electric-only with a 64 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack
capable of at least 250 miles. Resting in a rear-wheel drive layout, Dodge
ZEO’s 200 kilowatt (268 horsepower) single-electric motor contributes to a 0-96 km/h time in less than six seconds, which rivals Chrysler’s famed HEMI
powerplant. Unlike other such vehicles, ZEO is a four-door, four-passenger
vehicle that delivers function as well as environmental responsibility.
Inspired in part by the architecture of a Möbius
strip, Dodge ZEO’s rakish A-pillars curve into extended roof rails that twist
and converge as they race rearward. The windshield glass continues in an
unbroken, curving plane nearly to the rear of the car, giving both front and
rear passengers an unimpeded, all-around view while showcasing ZEO’s inventive
interior. Other expressive details include scissor doors, front and rear lamps
treated as separate sculptural forms, and the ZEO Orange and dark silver
exterior.
Inspired by organic forms and wireless technology,
Dodge ZEO’s interior is loaded with attitude and intelligence expected by
youthful buyers. The entire cabin is treated as if it were a single piece of
sculpture. A broad sloping fabric-wrapped surface in front of the driver curves
dramatically into the door and quarter panel. It then sweeps around the back
panel to the opposite side quarter and door, ending in a sloping surface in
front of the passenger.
This design approach blends the usually
separate-looking parts of the interior into a unified whole. A narrow strip of
blue LED accent lighting on the doors and quarters lead to the back panel,
adding to the sweeping effect. Most of the interior surfaces of the ZEO concept
are colored in Super White, adding to the sculptural impression.
A slim center console slopes down from the
windshield of the Dodge ZEO, creating a dual-cockpit effect. It then levels off
to divide the cabin by continuing clear to the back panel. To avoid visual
clutter, customary controls and a viewing screen are set flush with the
surface.