Meet Citroen’s new electric supermini, the e-C3

ABU DHABI: The new Citroen e-C3 aims to revolutionize the small electric car lineup when it arrives in 2024 with its affordable price point. This EV has been engineered on an all-new platform and has the ability to push rival EV small cars like the Vauxhall Corsa Electric to reevaluate their strategies.

The debut of the Citroen e-C3 coincides with the unveiling of the car maker's redesigned logo, marking the debut of this redesign on its production car.

The Citroen e-C3 marks the first new C3 model's introduction in seven years. It has undergone many changes in its latest generation, acquiring the form of an SUV. This design transformation is a reflection of the consumers' evolving preferences, who prefer the versatility and practicality of SUVs. It is available in both electric power and petrol versions. 

The Citroen e-C3, which has an estimated 320 km driving range, will be available in some European markets at a starting price of €23,300 (AED 90,547). This makes it one of the most budget-friendly new electric passenger vehicles in the world.

The Citroen e-C3's pricing is higher than the most budget-friendly petrol hatchbacks; it aims to compete with leading Chinese brands like GWM and MG  in the budget electric-car market. The base-model MG 4 electric hatch is available in Germany at around €32,000 (AED 124,440), whereas the cost of a similar car in Australia is $38,990 (AED 151,514).

Since electric cars are not so common in Europe, the new C3 may be offered with a petrol version in the future. Additionally, Citroen will come up with a more budget-friendly e-C3 for 2025 with a 200 km range, targeting a price of €19,990 (AED 77,680).

The dimension of the new SUV-style Citroen C3 has been increased. It offers higher seating and improved passenger space. The design of the Citroen C3 is inspired by the Citroen Oli concept and has adopted the architecture of the C3 available in developing markets.

The 2024 Citroen e-C3 will hit European dealerships between April and June in the second quarter of 2024. Its manufacturing will be held at its Slovakian factory.

The Citroen C3 is not available in the UAE, but its SUV version the C3 Aircross is on sale. 

Also read: Citroen C3 Aircross to go all-electric in Europe