Your Definitive Guide to the new CITROËN Ë-C3 electric car

The new CITROËN Ë-C3 electric car - Your Definitive Guide

“Electric cars are all too expensive and the UK cannot afford them …” a statement often made by press and media outlets in the recent few years. In particular, with 2022 / 2023 being known for inflation, rising living costs (the cost of living crisis) and increasing interest rates, the sensitivity to automotive costs is certainly at a high.

This is even more prevalent with electric cars, as there are some additional financial obligation and considerations; the cost of a charge point installation at home / work, the cost of electricity (compared to petrol or diesel) and the cost of motor insurance.

But throughout 2023, we have seen a change in pricing structure towards EVs, with higher discounts, more competitive finance deals and incentives like free charge points, contributions towards the cost of charging and even free motor insurance with some EVs! But for 2024, and beyond, there are even more cost-effective pure electric cars and vans on route, with the Stellantis group confirming a significant step to mass-adoption with their brand-new small SUV, the Citroen E-C3.

So “forget everything you knew about electric cars” says the Citroen website. The French manufacturer believes they have a revolutionary mobility solution which is not only affordable but which does not lack in comfort, design or tech.

Already winning awards as the Best In Class Comfort, the Advanced Comfort Suspension with the Hydraulic Cushions, ensures a smooth and comforted driving experience. Add to that a spacious interior with Advanced Comfort seats, which uses additional foam, leads us to believe that driver experience is high on the agenda with this option. So on the surface, this is what UK customers want to hear - an EV consumers can genuinely afford and which is still an enjoyable motor.

And specification is not lacking with the 2024 C3 EV, with options like the 10.25” touchscreen, wireless Wi-Fi feature, Apple CarPlay, Head Up Display (with the C-Zen Lounge), a compact steering wheel, My Citroen Play (standard on the YOU), My Citroen Drive (standard on the MAX).

Connect Plus (additional option which allows real-time traffic information), Intelligent Beam Headlights, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, Active Lane Departure Warning plus the Connect-One (for emergency assistance). To be clear, the group are confirming two key options to choose from:

• YOU - which includes much of the above plus LED headlamps, cruise control, 16” steel wheels and 6-aribag system; and
•  MAX - this add 17” alloys, two-tone roof, auto wipers, power folding and heated door mirrors, 60/40 2nd row, 3D avigation, electrochrome rear-view mirror and LED rear lamps. 

But how does the electric C3 perform?

This FWD SUV will have a 44 kWh usable battery which will offer 0 – 62 times of 11.0 seconds, 84 mph top speeds and 83 kW (or 111hp). Expect a combined winter range of 130 miles with warmer weather allowing for 175 miles. On charging, the 7.4kW AC max will allow 7 hour 0 – 100% charging times with the 100 kW DC maximum allowing 32 minute 10 – 80% times. It has a vehicle fuel equivalent of 143 mpg. This EV will have no Bidirectional charging.

The Pros of the E-C3 are:

•  The Price - it is a genuinely affordable car, which will start around £21,000 in the UK. 2025 will see a cheaper model launched (circa £17,000);
•  Simplicity - with just a YOU and MAX specification, the brand are straight to the point with easy to understand product;
•  Charging - the 100kW DC is a nice addition on a small car / battery. 30 minute rapid charging sessions are a positive move.

The cons of the E-C3 are:

•  The Range - this isn’t suitable for high-mileage drivers. While advertised at 200 miles (WLTP), this will alter in real-world conditions to around 150 - 160 miles; 
•  Size - a small family car which may not offer the room that other SUV / crossovers have;  
• AC Charging - the car is only capable of 7kW AC, whereas many modern alternatives are at 11kW AC - this saves a lot of time!

Moving forward to ordering your new e-C3 is pretty straightforward with the e-car lease experts. Whether you are a personal, business or salary sacrifice customer, just head to the designated electric Citroen offers page. Or, build your desired  car on the manufacturer website - and send the completed build to us for a contract hire quotation.