PARIS: An all-electric car remains an unaffordable luxury to most buyers, but Citroën is hoping to bring battery-powered mobility to the masses in the style of the storied 1950s 2CV.

The new C3 is set to be Europe's cheapest electric of 2024, and one of the most affordable choices for buyers seeking to get around without local emissions.

Styled like an SUV, the five-door hatchback is expected to go on sale in spring 2024, and the initial price of €23,300 in Europe is set to drop to €19,990 in a no-frills version the next year.

For the small-priced C3, buyers can expect a relatively small-sized and small-ranged car offering five occupants more space than its predecessor at a length of 4.01 metres and a moderate increase in the 310-litre luggage compartment.



Citroën also promises more comforts with dual-stage springs and new seats, as well as better digital connectivity. For the first time, the integrated navigation system also includes charging stops.

Things are little more frugal in terms of performance, and the manufacturer is offering only 113 hp and a top speed limited to 135 kph. The manufacturer is using lithium-iron-phosphate batteries for the first time on Citroën's platform specially developed for electric models. These are significantly cheaper than lithium-ion cells.

According to Citroën, there will be 44 kWh battery capacity for a standard range of 320km at the start, while the entry-level model in 2025 will have a smaller battery and a more limited range of 200 kilometres. Owners can charge the car at a maximum of 100 kW DC or with up to 11 kW AC.

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