Zagato preparing all-electric compact two-seater [Video]

The VOLPE can be ordered with a range-extender that burns gasoline or natural gas.

Zagato is famous all around the world for its work with luxury and sports cars.

Romano Artioli is a well-known auto designer whose portfolio includes the Bugatti EB110 and the Lotus Elise.

When the two parties work together to design and build a car, one could easily imagine the end product to be a fast sports car with a sleek body that features a double-bubble roof.

As it turns out, that is not the case at all. Zagato and Artioli have just revealed their latest project, an electric two-seater city car that is very similar to the recently-launched Renault Twizy.

The car is named VOLPE, a word which means "fox" in Italian. The name is also an acronym that stands for Veicoli Originali Leggeri Privi di Emissioni ("original light zero-emission vehicle").

The VOLPE is roughly the same size as a large motorcycle, and it can accommodate two passengers that sit one behind the other. The rear seat can fold down, creating a small trunk. In spite of its tiny size, the VOLPE can be ordered with numerous creature comforts such as air conditioning, an MP3 player, electric windows, central locks, and a navigation system.

The entry-level version of the VOLPE is powered entirely by electricity. It has a maximum range of 43 miles, though that figure can go up slightly by using energy generated by an optional roof-mounted solar panel. Top speed is limited to roughly 30 miles per hour, which confines the VOLPE to the city.

Buyers who want more power and an increased range can opt for a more expensive version that is equipped with a range-extending generator that can burn gasoline or natural gas. This gives the car a more usable range of 236 miles, and a top speed that is limited to 50 miles per hour.

Whichever engine is chosen, the VOLPE's body is built out of high-strength steel, and the doors are made out of aluminum. They open in a scissor-like fashion to enable the driver to park in crowded spaces and still be able to exit the vehicle.

The VOLPE is scheduled to hit showrooms in Italy in early 2013. The all-electric version will carry a base price of â,¬6,900 ($8,980).