2008 Detroit Auto Show: Dodge ZEO Concept

• Looks like: A Mazda RX-8 with Dodge crosshairs
• Defining characteristics: Mean fenders, glass roof and big, big wheels
• Ridiculous features: Lamborghini-like scissor doors in front and back
• Chance of being mass-produced: Absolutely none

Dodge’s contribution to Chrysler’s trio of green concept cars is called ZEO, for Zero Emissions Operation, meaning this is an all-electric car. It’s a small sports car, which is a good body style for such a concept, but we’re a big perplexed by the huge 23-inch wheels. In the real world of fuel-efficient cars, wheel size tends to be on the small size to help with weight and aerodynamics.

The same 200-kilowatt electric motor that’s in Chrysler’s ecoVoyager is under the hood here, but there’s no range extender like that concept and Jeep’s Renegade have. Somehow, though, this version has a range of 250 miles on a single charge. Oh, and it can hit 60 mph in under 6 seconds. Not only are we unimpressed with the concept’s green claims, we’ve seen too many small, sporty Dodge concepts on display over the years with none of them ever hitting the streets to believe the ZEO has a chance. Check out the photos below and let us know what you think. 

Comments

I love the grille with the light bar in it, but most of their concepts don't make it to production. Sad, but true.

I'll put it right up there with the Demon, Razor, and the Pronto Spyder.

But "real people" don't buy affordable roadsters. That's why I traded in my 98 Stratus for an MR2-Spyder.

ARE YOU LISTENING DODGE? You just lost ONE! You've teased me for 20 years. (I couldn't afford a Viper or a Prowler)

It actually looks nice, but the only reason it's at the show is for PR. Dodge and 'green' are an oxymoron, and they're behind the curve more than anyone else in that regard.