It almost sounds like a cash bargain, but the Citroën ë-C3, the new 100% electric trump card of the French brand, can now be ordered. It is the car that, especially given its price, should fully compete with comparable models from Asia. But even more importantly, it is one of the first affordable electric vehicles that, given its costs (especially in private lease), is also accessible to a much larger audience.
High expectations
Normally we are not into prices here and certainly not into comparisons. But in this case we will make an exception for this new Citroën because the expectations of this ‘compact B-segment crossover’ for the Dutch market are quite high. That description remains a thing and actually says that it is a small SUV, where you as a camper still have the feeling of sitting a little higher.
Actually an excellent model for urban use, although many young families or self-employed people will be just as happy with it. It may well be your first real electric ‘vehicle’, because it comes from France.
This potential hit from Citroën has a price of 24,920 including everything. Private lease enthusiasts will pay 359 euros per month, or as an entry-level user 298 euros per month including SEPP subsidy. This only applies to a contract based on 72 months, 5,000 km per year and with 12 demonstrably claim-free years.
CITROËN e-C3 available in 2 versions
The new Citroën ë-C3 comes on the market in 2 versions. A Citroën ë-C3 You and the Citroën ë-C3 Max. The first mentioned, the Citroën ë-C3 You is the entry-level model. This model is equipped as standard with LED headlights, Citroën Advanced Comfort suspension, Active Safety Brake, Citroën Head-Up Display system, and Smartphone Station for infotainment. It also has rear parking sensors, cruise control, air conditioning and six airbags.
The Citroën ë-C3 MAX is considerably more expensive and is available from 28,790 euros. For that extra 4,500 euros you get a bit more luxury, comfort and appearance. The ë-C3 Max has 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Citroën Advanced Comfort seats, LED rear lights, automatic air conditioning, 3D navigation, an induction charger for smartphones and a reversing camera.
Both models are eligible for the Subsidy Scheme for Electric Passenger Cars for Private Individuals (SEPP). As a private individual, you benefit from a 2,950 euro government subsidy on the list price.
Electric charging and the range
The new Citroën ë-C3 is equipped with a 44 kWh battery that should provide a range of at least 250 kilometers. If you drive a lot in the city, the range can easily increase to well over 300 km. If you have a home charger, you don’t have to think about the range at all, otherwise you have to learn to be practical about electric driving. And as soon as you do that, you immediately notice that all the stories about range don’t matter at all.
After all, you get used to the range of the car in no time. The Citroën ë-C3 has an optional 3-phase 11 kW on-board charger (always do that) and a DC fast charging capacity of up to 100 kW. Ideally, you can charge your ë-C3 from 20 to 80% within half an hour on a fast charger.
Bicycle carriers and overweight e-bikes
Citroën indicates a maximum towing weight (braked) of 600 kilograms, with a nose weight of 61 kilograms. This should be more than sufficient for a bicycle carrier including two e-bikes. For the latter you really have to do some mental calculations because a heavier version of a bicycle carrier suitable for e-bikes with 2 bicycles will almost certainly be considerably higher. Precisely because this ë-C3 can also appeal to the target group of seniors, it is good to calculate this in advance and submit it to the supplier where you want to purchase or lease the car.
