Citroen C3 Electric will be launched at an affordable price point, made possible with localization of more than 90%
Sensing an opportunity in the entry-level EV segment in India, Citroen will soon launch its first electric car based on C3. Mainstream manufacturers like Maruti, Hyundai and Mahindra are still to enter this space, which can work to Citroen’s advantage. The only true rival will be the recently launched Tata Tiago EV.
Citroen C3 electric car will be launched as part of the company’s smart car programme, referred to as the C-cubed programme. Under this plan, Citroen will be launching multiple compact cars at an affordable price point. All of these cars will be based on Citroen’s CMP platform. Made in India Citroen cars will also target export markets.
Citroen C3 Electric – First Video Teaser
Considering that Citroen is looking to launch the C3 Electric at an affordable price point, range could be close to that of the Tiago EV. C3 will apparently have slightly higher range to improve competencies against the Tiago EV. Both C3 and Tiago electric cars are expected to be launched at an initial offer price of around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 12 lakh. To be called ë-C3, the new Citroen electric has now been teased in via a video.
In terms of equipment list, much of it will be borrowed from petrol-powered C3. Some key features include a 26cm touchscreen infotainment system, C-Buddy connectivity tech, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and voice commands with Siri and Google Assistant. Safety package includes dual-airbags, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, engine immobilizer, high speed alert system and speed sensitive auto door lock.
For the charging network, Citroen has signed a partnership with JIO-BP. Thanks to this, EV fast charging facility powered by Jio-BP pulse will be available across key Citroën dealerships across India. Jio-BP will install DC fast chargers across Citroën’s key dealership network and workshops across the country in phases. These chargers will also be open to the entire universe of EV car customers to help boost EV adoption among consumers. Charging infrastructure network is accessible via the My Citroën Connect app
Citroen EV plans for India
After C3 Electric, Citroen has plans to launch multiple new products in India. It will include bigger vehicles such as MPVs and CUVs. As of now, Citroen cars are being manufactured at their plant in Thiruvallur near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Based on demand, Citroen may think about investing in capacity expansion or even launching new manufacturing units.
For its electric cars, Citroen will focus on achieving a high level of localization. The only major part that will be imported will be the battery packs. As of now, the company feels that it may not be possible to source batteries locally.
When the market matures, Citroen may consider shifting to locally manufactured battery packs. Citroen is bullish on the Indian EV market and expects EV share in overall car sales to be around 5-10% by 2025. By 2030, EV penetration could reach 25%, as per the company’s estimates.
