Rome  - The Italian Tazzari group is planning a production version of the Tazzari Zero electric vehicle for all major European markets by the end of 2009, the company has announced.

Customers will find a car fitted with a 15kW asynchronous centrally mounted engine, driving the rear wheels with maximum torque of 150 Nm. The lightweight construction gives it a weight of only 542 kilogrammes, enabling acceleration from zero to 50 kilometres an hour in five seconds.

One full six-hour charge of the Li-ion Fe battery unit gives it a range of up to 140 kilometres. The top speed is listed at 90 km/h.

The Zero has four driving modes. Race supports a sporty performance drive. Rain is for wet roads. Standard is for daily use while the Economy is adjusted to giving the maximum range.

Among the standard accessories are 15-inch alloys with 175/55 tyres, a CD/Radio player, eco leather seats, anti-theft immobilizer and a removable glass sunroof. An optional extra is a super fast charger that can recharge the battery 80 per cent in 50 minutes. Tazzari lists the price tag at under 20,000 euros or 25,700 dollars. (dpa)