The electric car market is growing rapidly as more and more drivers are looking for environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and convenient alternatives to conventional vehicles. However, many electric cars are still expensive, limited in range, or lacking in comfort. That's why Citroen, the French automaker with a history of producing quirky and innovative cars, has unveiled its latest electric car, the e-C3. The Citroen e-C3 is a compact hatchback that aims to offer a practical and comfortable driving experience for urban and suburban commuters without breaking the bank.
The e-C3: An electric version of Citroen's best-selling model
The Citroen e-C3 electric car is based on the Citroen C3, one of the brand's best-selling models, with over four million units sold worldwide since its launch in 2002. The C3 is a popular choice among drivers who value style, space, and safety. The Citroen e-C3 inherits these qualities but with a fully electric powertrain that makes it even more efficient and eco-friendly.
The e-C3 has a 50 kWh battery that can provide up to 217 miles (350 km) of range on a single charge, according to the WLTP standard. This is enough to cover most daily trips and some longer journeys. The battery can be recharged to 80% in 30 minutes using a 100 kW fast charger or in five hours using a 7.4 kW wallbox. The e-C3 also supports regenerative braking, which recovers some of the energy lost during deceleration and braking and extends the range.
The e-C3 electric car has a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor that can deliver a maximum torque of 260 Nm. This gives the e-C3 a smooth and responsive acceleration, as well as a decent top speed. The e-C3 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 9.7 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h). The e-C3 has three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, that can adjust the power output and energy consumption according to the driver's preference. The Eco mode optimizes the range by reducing the power and limiting the speed to 68 mph (110 km/h). The Normal mode provides a balanced performance for everyday driving. The Sport mode boosts the power and responsiveness for a more dynamic driving experience.
The e-C3: A bold and colorful design with Airbump technology
The e-C3 electric car stands out from the crowd with its bold and colorful design, which reflects Citroen's philosophy of making cars that are both functional and fun. The e-C3 has eight body colors, three roof colors, and four color packs to choose from, allowing the drivers to customize their cars according to their taste. The e-C3 also has LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic glass roof that lets in natural light.
One of the most distinctive features of the e-C3 is the Airbump technology, which are air-filled capsules on the doors and bumpers that protect the car from minor impacts and scratches. The Airbump technology was first introduced by Citroen in 2014 and has since become a signature element of its cars. The Airbump technology not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the e-C3 but also reduces the maintenance costs and increases the resale value.