Citroen is poised to launch its first electric vehicle in India, the eC3, with an expected unveiling in 2023. Based on the existing C3 model, the eC3 represents Citroen’s entry into the burgeoning Indian EV market.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Taveras previously indicated a potential early 2023 (January) launch, a timeline seemingly confirmed by recent company teasers. The eC3 is set to feature a 30.2kWh battery pack, supplied by the Chinese company Svolt. The EV will support both a 3.3kW AC charger and CCS2 fast charging capabilities. The electric motor will be front-axle mounted, delivering 63kW (86hp) of power and a peak torque of 143Nm.
Citroen anticipates the eC3 will provide an ARAI-certified range of approximately 350km. In terms of design, the eC3 will closely resemble its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart, the C3, with the notable absence of an exhaust pipe, a clear indicator of its electric powertrain.
The interior of the eC3 is expected to feature several modifications compared to the ICE model, including a shift from traditional gears to a manual gear lever. Other interior elements are anticipated to remain consistent with the existing C3.
The new Citroen eC3 is expected to directly compete with vehicles like the Tata Tiago EV in the Indian market. Given that many of the eC3’s components are sourced locally, the vehicle’s price is projected to fall within the range of ₹10 lakh to ₹12 lakh. Notably, Citroen also plans to export the eC3 from India, underscoring the country’s role as a manufacturing hub for the model. Further details regarding the entry-level electric hatchback are anticipated from Citroen in the coming months.
