European automakers expand their natural gas models for ‘minicar’ segment

“The Mii brings clear SEAT identity to the sub-compact segment and is set to win a significant share of the market,” said James Muir, President of SEAT S.A. “This is why the Mii is an important addition to the SEAT portfolio and a clear next step in our company strategy. With this car, we are starting the most comprehensive model offensive in our history.”

In Continental Europe the little SEAT will be offered with CNG engineering. This lowers CO2 emissions to just 86 g/km, making the Mii one of the cleanest cars in the world. All versions will be available in Spain this year, with the rest of Europe following in the second quarter of 2012.

Also based on the VW up! 2012, Škoda unveiled its Citigo model last week, which includes a natural gas variant too. With a length of 3.56 metres, width of 1.65 metres and height of 1.48 metres, this ‘City Clever’ car offers maximum utilisation of space for four passengers, and “paves the way for our brand to enter a very promising segment,” said Winfried Vahland, Board Chairman of the Czech Republic-based manufacturer. The Škoda Citigo will debut on the domestic Czech market later this year, while the rest of Europe is scheduled for the beginning of summer 2012.

Source: Seat / Škoda