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The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is growing rapidly, and the Citroen eC3 has emerged as a strong contender in the affordable electric hatchback segment. With its stylish design, practical features, and competitive pricing, the Citroen eC3 is being marketed as an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers. But is it truly the most affordable electric hatchback in India? In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the Citroen eC3’s price, features, pros, cons, and how it compares to other EVs to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
The Citroen eC3 is a fully electric version of the popular C3 hatchback, designed to cater to urban commuters and first-time EV buyers. Here’s a quick look at what makes the Citroen eC3 stand out:
Design: The Citroen eC3 retains the stylish and modern design of its petrol counterpart, with a compact footprint that’s perfect for city driving.
Interior: The cabin is spacious and well-equipped, with features like a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, smart steering wheel, and premium fabric seats.
Performance: Powered by a 29.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Citroen eC3 delivers an ARAI-certified range of 320 km on a single charge.
Charging: It supports both fast charging (0-80% in 57 minutes) and slow charging (0-100% in 10.5 hours).
One of the most critical factors for any buyer is the price. Let’s break down the pricing of the Citroen eC3 in India:
Ex-showroom Price: The Citroen eC3 is priced at ₹11.50 lakh to ₹12.43 lakh (ex-showroom).
On-road Price: Depending on your location, taxes, and insurance, the on-road price can range between ₹12.50 lakh to ₹13.50 lakh.
When compared to other electric hatchbacks in India, the Citroen eC3 sits in the affordable segment. Here’s a quick comparison:
Tata Tiago EV: Priced between ₹8.69 lakh to ₹11.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
MG Comet EV: Priced between ₹7.98 lakh to ₹9.98 lakh (ex-showroom).
While the Citroen eC3 is slightly more expensive than the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV, it offers a unique combination of style, features, and performance that make it stand out.
Let’s take a closer look at the features that make the Citroen eC3 a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers:
The Citroen eC3 boasts a stylish and modern design with a compact footprint, making it ideal for city driving and easy parking.
It features LED daytime running lights, body-colored bumpers, and 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
The cabin is spacious and well-equipped, with features like a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, smart steering wheel, and premium fabric seats.
It also offers automatic climate control, rear AC vents, and keyless entry.
The Citroen eC3 is equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a speed alert system.
It also features child seat anchors and seatbelt reminders for added safety.
The Citroen eC3 offers automatic climate control with rear AC vents, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
The seats are upholstered in premium fabric, adding a touch of luxury to the cabin.
The Citroen eC3 is designed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency, making it suitable for both city commutes and short trips.
The Citroen eC3 is powered by a 29.2 kWh lithium-ion battery that delivers an ARAI-certified range of 320 km on a single charge.
In real-world conditions, you can expect a range of 250-280 km, depending on driving habits and terrain.
Fast Charging: A 30 kW DC fast charger can charge the battery from 0-80% in 57 minutes.
Slow Charging: A 3.3 kW AC charger takes about 10.5 hours for a full charge.
The Citroen eC3’s electric motor produces 57 bhp of power and 143 Nm of torque, ensuring smooth and responsive performance.
It can go from 0 to 60 km/h in 6.8 seconds, which is adequate for city driving.
Here are some reasons why the Citroen eC3 is worth considering for budget-conscious buyers:
Affordable Pricing: One of the most budget-friendly electric hatchbacks in India.
Compact Design: Ideal for city commutes and easy parking.
Low Running Costs: Savings on fuel and maintenance.
Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Premium Features: The Citroen eC3 offers a range of premium features that enhance comfort and convenience.
While the Citroen eC3 has a lot to offer, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
Limited Range: Compared to some competitors, the range is slightly lower.
Charging Infrastructure: Dependence on public charging stations for long trips.
Service Network: Citroen’s after-sales service network is still growing, which could be a concern for some buyers.
Here’s how the Citroen eC3 stacks up against its competitors:
| Feature | Citroen eC3 | Tata Tiago EV | MG Comet EV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹11.50 – ₹12.43 lakh | ₹8.69 – ₹11.99 lakh | ₹7.98 – ₹9.98 lakh |
| Range | 320 km | 315 km | 230 km |
| Seating Capacity | 5-seater | 5-seater | 4-seater |
| Charging Time | 57 minutes (0-80%) | 57 minutes (0-80%) | 5 hours (0-100%) |
| Boot Space | 315 liters | 240 liters | 200 liters |
The Citroen eC3 stands out for its stylish design and premium features, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
However, it’s slightly more expensive than the Tata Tiago EV and MG Comet EV, which offer similar or better range and features.
After analyzing the price, features, and performance, here’s our take:
For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Citroen eC3 is an excellent choice due to its affordable pricing and premium features.
For City Commuters: The compact design and low running costs make it ideal for city driving.
For First-Time EV Buyers: The Citroen eC3 offers a great introduction to electric vehicles with its user-friendly features and practical design.
Ultimately, the Citroen eC3 is a great option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize style and features, but its slightly higher price tag might be a deterrent for some.
The Citroen eC3 is a stylish and practical electric hatchback that offers a blend of affordability, features, and performance. While it’s slightly more expensive than some competitors, its premium features and compact design make it a strong contender in the Indian EV market. If you’re looking for an affordable and eco-friendly vehicle for city commutes, the Citroen eC3 is definitely worth considering.
What is the on-road price of the Citroen eC3 in India?
The on-road price ranges between ₹12.50 lakh to ₹13.50 lakh, depending on your location.
How does the Citroen eC3 compare to the Tata Tiago EV?
The Citroen eC3 is slightly more expensive but offers a more stylish design and premium features compared to the Tata Tiago EV.
What is the charging time for the Citroen eC3?
It takes 57 minutes for a 0-80% charge with a DC fast charger and 10.5 hours with an AC charger.
Is the Citroen eC3 suitable for long-distance travel?
With a range of 320 km, it’s well-suited for short trips and city commutes but may require frequent charging for long-distance travel.
Are there any government incentives for buying the Citroen eC3?
Yes, buyers can avail of subsidies under the FAME-II scheme.