Seat also wants to show off their technology now that the Pris Motor Show is going on, and they’re doing so with the IBE (IBE) concept. It is a zero-emission electric sportscar, almost identical to the Honda CR-Z. The thing is that the IBE is also as weak as the CR-Z with just 102 PS (75 kW) and 200 Nm of torque. That’s not so sporty, but it does look quite good.
With its fairly compact size, 3.8 meters long and 1.8 meters wide, and light weight of 1100 kg, the IBE 2+2 sports coupe has the classic features of a great sportscar, but as mentioned it lacks the power. 0 to 50 km/h (31 mph) takes 3.6 seconds; within 6.6 seconds, the IBE has reached 80 km/h (50 mph), and after only 9.7 seconds it arrives at 100 km/h (62 mph). But at least it is zero emission right up to the top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph).
Seat says the car has a range of around 130 kilometres (81 miles).
‘SEAT is working very hard on future electro-mobility,’ said James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A.
‘Following the great success of our highly efficient Ecomotive models, hybrids and electric vehicles are further steps in our clear corporate strategy. And the IBE leaves no room for doubt – the future will find SEAT offering the most innovative, bold and youthful cars in their respective segments, without sacrificing anything in terms of usability.’
The SEAT IBE takes a unique approach to combining dynamic design and compact sporting character with exceptional usability. It is conceived for the urban conurbations of Europe such as Paris, London, Berlin or Barcelona. Here is where the IBE will come into its own with zero-emissions driving fun, fabulous manoeuvrability, an impressive amount of space – and, of course, a cool look courtesy of its clear and extroverted design language.
‘Zero-emissions mobility in urban areas is becoming increasingly important,’ said Frank Bekemeier, Executive Vice-President for SEAT responsible for Research and Development.
‘SEAT is developing innovative concepts for these new challenges. The IBE is a very special combination of compactness, usability and style, which makes it unique.’
‘The IBE shows SEAT’s vision for a car of the future that is as emotional as it is ecologically responsible and affordable,’ said SEAT Head of Design Luc Donckerwolke.
‘The IBE is a concentrated version of our design DNA. Both exterior and interior are characterised by their focus on key elements, by a clear and precise architecture, by modern technology and by materials that are as high-quality as they are ecological.’
The exterior design of the car also delivers an exciting glimpse into the ongoing development of the SEAT design language. ‘The IBE is a gene pool for our next generation of vehicles,’ said Mr Donckerwolke.
‘Many of its elements describe our design language going forward. And it demonstrates how well driving pleasure and ecology come together at SEAT. Driving will be lots of fun in the electric age, too – at least it will in a SEAT.’
