Citroen has introduced the e-C3, an electric vehicle poised to bring comfort, style, and affordability to European motorists. As the first electric car in the B-segment engineered and manufactured in Europe, the e-C3 aspires to disrupt the reign of SUVs and traditional hatchbacks.
Introducing the Citroen e-C3
The fourth iteration of the Citroen C3, the e-C3, continues the success of a model that has sold over 5.6 million units since 2002. This all-electric variant draws inspiration from the 2022 Citroen Oli concept and debuts Citroën's fresh design philosophy and branding, marked by a revamped oval logo and striking LED headlamps.
Constructed on Citroën's tailor-made Smart Car platform, the e-C3 boasts a roomy, flexible cabin, elevated ride height, and a compact design. It measures 4.05 meters long, 1.75 meters wide, and 1.53 meters tall, making it a perfect fit for city driving and parking scenarios.
A 44 kWh battery powers the Citroen e-C3, offering up to 199 miles (320 km) of range per the WLTP standard. Rapid charging can boost the battery from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes with a 100 kW DC charger or in 5 hours using a 7.4 kW home charging station. Regenerative braking is also featured, capturing energy during deceleration to increase range.
Propelled by a single electric motor, the e-C3 delivers 100 kW (136 hp) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque. It can sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 9.2 seconds, with a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h). Three driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—allow drivers to tailor power output and efficiency to their preferences.
Key Features of the Citroën e-C3
The Citroen e-C3 is designed with an emphasis on comfort, amenities, and technological advancements, all at a reasonable price point. Some key features include:
- Advanced Comfort Seats: The e-C3 boasts Citroën's latest seats, engineered for exceptional support and comfort. These seats feature high-density foam and soft, breathable fabric, with adjustments for height, lumbar support, and heating.
- Advanced Comfort Suspension: The e-C3 is the first in the B-segment to feature Citroën's renowned suspension system. It utilizes progressive hydraulic cushions to dampen road imperfections, delivering a serene ride. The suspension also adjusts to driving modes and velocity, improving handling and agility.
- C-ZEN Lounge: The e-C3 introduces the C-ZEN Lounge, an innovative dashboard design incorporating a 10-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital display, and a wireless charging pad. The touchscreen provides access to navigation, media, and climate controls, while the display shows vital driving details. Ambient cabin lighting enhances the interior ambiance.
- Connectivity and Safety: The e-C3 supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The Citroën Connect Box offers emergency services and remote vehicle management. An array of driver aids includes lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking.
Citroen e-C3 Pricing
The Citroen e-C3 starts at €23,300 ($25,000) in Europe, undercutting many competitors in the electric vehicle market. Incentives and rebates vary by country; in France, the e-C3 qualifies for a €6,000 ($6,500) ecological bonus and a €2,500 ($2,700) bonus for trading in an older diesel or gasoline vehicle, effectively reducing the e-C3's cost to €14,800 ($16,000).
In 2025, Citroën plans to introduce a more budget-friendly e-C3 with a smaller battery and 124 miles (200 km) range, starting at €19,990 ($21,500). This model is aimed at urban drivers who require less range.