In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have gained momentum in the automotive industry, with various manufacturers offering innovative electric models to meet the growing demand for sustainable transportation. Citroën has joined the electric revolution with the ë-C3, an all-electric compact car designed to offer a sustainable and stylish driving experience.

Performance

The Citroën ë-C3 is designed for urban and suburban driving, and its performance aligns with these requirements. This electric compact SUV is equipped with an electric motor delivering 113hp, completing the sprint from 0-100km/h in 11 seconds. While it may not break speed records, it provides a peppy and responsive driving experience well-suited for city commuting and leisurely suburban drives.

A prominent characteristic defining the ë-C3's performance is its serene and seamless operation. Electric vehicles are renowned for their noiseless journeys, and the ë-C3 effortlessly upholds this standard. What's more, Citroën has introduced active comfort seats and suspension for the first time in a B-segment car, ensuring an ergonomic and cozy seating arrangement that enhances the overall smoothness of the ride.

Range and Charging

The ë-C3 offers a practical driving range, especially for city dwellers. Providing an impressive range for its price point of up to 320 kilometres on a single charge, making it ideal for daily commuting and shorter weekend trips. The actual range may vary depending on driving conditions, temperature, and driving style, but it generally offers sufficient range for urban living.

The battery will also support 100 kW rapid charging, making it possible to recharge from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes at a sufficiently powerful charging station. Using a domestic 'wallbox' for home charging will take slightly over four hours to achieve the same level of charge.

Design and Interior

In addition to focusing on spaciousness in the new C3, Citroen has incorporated a high-tech aesthetic into the cabin. The centrepiece of this design is the innovative Citroen Head-Up Display, which diverges from conventional head-up displays. Unlike traditional systems that project selected information from the instrument cluster onto the windshield, the C3 opts for a distinct approach. Instead of featuring a traditional instrument display, the C3 employs a sleek black panel positioned at the top of the dashboard. This panel reflects the necessary information, eliminating data duplication and placing critical details closer to the driver's line of sight. This system is complemented by a new, compact multi-function steering wheel that offers both reach and rake adjustments to ensure optimal visibility for all drivers.

Cost Considerations

While Citroen's focus is evidently on providing a comfortable driving experience, the brand is also committed to ensuring affordability. Although precise pricing and specifications for the Irish market are yet to be confirmed, Citroen's objective is to position the most affordable electric e-C3 model at a price point of below €25,000 in the majority of European countries. Even with the inclusion of VRT, it is expected to remain comfortably below the €30,000 mark in Ireland. However, prospective buyers will need to exercise patience, as the new e-C3 is not expected to be available until the very end of 2024. Hence, it is advisable to consider it as a vehicle for the "251" registration period commencing in early 2025.

Conclusion

The Citroën ë-C3 is a worthy contender in the growing market of electric compact cars. It may not boast the longest range, but it shines in urban environments, where most drivers spend the majority of their time. With its stylish design, comfortable interior, and affordability, the ë-C3 brings a breath of fresh air to the world of electric mobility. As more drivers embrace electric vehicles for their daily transportation needs, the Citroën ë-C3 stands ready to meet the demand for sustainable, practical, and stylish urban mobility.