Citroen e-C3: A Quick Look

The all-electric e-C3’s top-of-the-line Shine variant is now available in India from Citroen, with prices starting at Rs 13.20 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Nearly a year after its premiere, the EV now has a new top model. The electric hatchback now has a few extra features, some of which were only available as accessories. Approximately Rs 40,000 more is spent on the new top variation than on the e-C3 Feel variant. A few aesthetic upgrades, such as imitation front and rear skid plates and 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, are added to the Shine over the e-C3 Feel. The steering wheel is now covered in leather inside. The e-C3 Shine has an electrically adjustable wing mirror system, a rear defogger, and a reverse camera among its features. The remaining equipment is carried over from the Feel trim, which has lower specs.

e-C3 – Things We Like

• Battery range
• Good dynamics
• Bold styling
• Affordability
• Safety

e-C3 – Things We Dislike

• Limited features
• Long charge time
• Cost cuttings
• Brand recognition
• Dealer and network service

e-C3 – Must Know Details

The Citroën eC3 retains its setup with an electric motor driving the front axle and a 29.2 kWh underfloor battery pack, generating 143 Nm of torque and 56 horsepower, with a top speed of 107 kmph. Citroën states it offers DC rapid charging and a range of up to 320 km (MIDC) on a single charge. The Shine variant adds features like false skid plates, 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, reverse camera, electrically adjustable wing mirrors, and a rear defogger. Its cabin, similar to the ICE-powered C3, includes a dual-tone dashboard, digital instrument cluster, and contrasting fabric seats, aligning with Citroën’s brand identity.

A quick data check shows Citroën’s focus on the eC3 lineup. It has a large battery pack similar to the Tata Nexon EV Prime but a lower output motor. Citroën claims a 0-60 kmph time of 6.8 seconds, which it achieves, but the car struggles near its 107 kmph top speed. There are two drive modes, eco and normal, with minimal difference in output.

Citroen claims that the eC3 can be DC fast-charged every time, eliminating the need for a wall box charger, and that it will not include one for consumers. It includes CCS2 rapid charging, which will charge
the car in 57-60 minutes. A 15-amp device will meet home charging demands, charging the car’s battery to full capacity in 10.30 hours. All of Citroen’s current and future showrooms would feature DC fast charging facilities available to both Citroen owners and other EV buyers.

e-C3 – Performance and specs

• Engine: Electric
• Power: 143 NM torque, 56 HP
• Top speed: 107 KM/H
• Acceleration: 0-60 kMPH in 6.8 seconds
• Transmission: Automatic
• Drivetrain: N/A
• Suspension: ( Front) SuspensionMacPherson Strut with Coil (Rear )SuspensionRear Twist Beam with Coil
• Brakes: (Front) Disc (Rear) drum
• Length: 3981MM
• Width: 1733 MM
• Height: 1604 MM
• Weight: 1716 KG

e-C3 – Competitors

The Tata Tigor EV is positioned as a competitor to the Citroën eC3 in the electric vehicle market. Both cars offer practical designs, urban-friendly features, and electric mobility options. The Tigor EV and the eC3 cater to the increasing demand for eco-friendly vehicles, each bringing their own set of features, range capabilities, and pricing strategies to appeal to a broad spectrum of consumers looking for efficient and modern electric vehicles.

e-C3 – Our Verdict

If you are looking for a highly efficient electric car then we may not consider Citreon eC3 as in a dipstick test with a few distinct points performance is frustratingly bland, the car is under-equipped, and it lacks the wow factor that EV customers would anticipate. On the plus side, it’s both comfy and stylish. So it all comes down to price.

Citroen’s emphasis on a wide range and ample interior space will be key selling elements for the vehicle. Given the current state of affairs, a car like the eC3 will appeal to individuals who require a second car with fixed running costs, someone searching for a cost-effective means to obtain green credentials, or someone who uses a car sparingly and wants to stand out from the crowd. Citroen is expected to sell the two eC3 models between Rs 10.50 lakh and Rs 13 lakh, putting it in rivalry with other EVs such as the Tiago, Tigor, and even the two-door MG EV, which will be launched later this year.