The French automaker, Citroën, has positioned its latest electric vehicle, the ë-C3, as a groundbreaking contender in the affordable eCar segment, hailing it as “probably the most important EV of the year” or the “first affordable European EV.”
In a market where affordability and regional origin play pivotal roles, Citroën distinguishes the ë-C3 by emphasizing its European roots.
Unlike competitors like the Dacia Spring, which hails from China, the ë-C3 was developed in Europe and is manufactured in Slovakia, solidifying its European identity.
Underpinning the ë-C3 is the CMP Smart Car platform, boasting a 44 kWh battery composed of LFP cells sourced from the Chinese supplier SVOLT, a spin-off from Great Wall Motor.
The vehicle can be charged with up to 100 kW of power, promising a swift 26-minute charge from 20 to 80 percent.
However, it’s worth noting a slight deviation from initial estimates, with the press release indicating a WLTP range of 300 kilometers, down from the initially stated 320 kilometers.
Priced at a competitive 23,300 euros, the base model, referred to as “YOU,” includes a comprehensive set of features such as 16-inch steel rims, six airbags, Citroën Advanced Comfort suspension, LED headlights, a head-up display, and more.
However, this version lacks an infotainment display, reflecting the brand’s strategic choices to meet the attractive base price.
For those desiring additional tech features, the “MAX” equipment, available at 27,800 euros, provides a 10.25-inch touchscreen with DAB+, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, sat nav with a Europe map, and various charging options for smartphones and other devices.
The ë-C3 MAX also includes a total of four USB-C ports and an inductive charging cradle.
Both models come equipped with a 7.4 kW onboard charger, and an optional three-phase 11 kW onboard charger is available for an extra 400 euros, enabling a full battery charge in four hours.
The streamlined surcharge list emphasizes Citroën’s commitment to keeping production lean and affordable.
According to Thomas Goldboom, Citroën’s Head of Germany, “with the new Citroën ë-C3, we are offering our customers a unique proposition: a well-equipped, all-electric small car developed and produced in Europe, with plenty of comfort, 100 kW fast charging, and absolutely sufficient range at an extremely affordable price.”
Goldboom emphasizes the importance of affordability to Citroën, expressing confidence that the ë-C3 will be highly attractive to customers with a starting price of 23,300 euros.
Looking ahead, Citroën plans to introduce a version of the ë-C3 with a range of 200 kilometers in 2025, further solidifying its commitment to affordability with a price tag of 19,990 euros.
While details on this variant are still pending, the company’s strategic focus on cost-effectiveness and European production positions the ë-C3 as a notable player in the electric car market.
