Similar to the C3, Citroen is likely to launch the C3 Aircross electric or eC3 Aircross in our market in early 2024.
Citroen has unveiled the new C3 Aircross midsize SUV under its C-Cubed program in the Indian market. The SUV is scheduled to be launched in our market before the end of this year, most probably during the festive season. Similar to the C3 hatchback, the C3 Aircross based electric SUV will also go on sale in our market in early 2024.
Citroen is currently selling the C3 hatchback and the eC3 electric in our market. The company has developed the new C-Cubed platform or CMP that is compatible with different body styles and powertrains including ICE and electric. With eC3, Citroen is all set to become the second-largest electric carmaker after Tata Motors in India. The French automaker sold 888 units of the eC3 in March 2023 and is aiming to double the volumes in the next six months.
Citroen will follow the same strategy with the new C3 Aircross, as the electric version is expected to be launched within the six months after the ICE version. If reports are to be believed, the Citroen C3 Aircross electric could be launched in our market in early 2024. While the powertrain details are not known, we expect the new model could get a 50kWh battery pack. The same battery pack is available with the e-C4 X electric and has an electric motor rated at 136bhp and 260Nm. It is claimed to offer a range of 222 miles (357km) on a single charge (WLTP). The India-spec model should offer a range of above 400km on a single charge.
Citroen is also investing in dedicated electric platform or ‘skateboards’; however, the company believes that the ICE-to-EV conversions are the way to go. The same strategy was first adopted by Tata Motors, which currently accounts for close to 90% market share in the EV segment. Tata Motors is currently selling the Nexon EV, Tigor EV and the Tiago EV based on the modified ICE platforms.
The report further claims that Citroen is also considering India as an export base for EVs. The company is already exporting the C3 hatchback as well as gearboxes from its production facility in Chennai to other markets.
Citroen C3 Aircross
Measuring 4.3 meters in length, the Citroen C3 Aircross will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara and the Toyota Hyryder. The SUV will be offered with 5 and 7-seat configurations. The SUV offers a ground clearance of 200mm. The new SUV will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 110bhp and 190Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual gearbox driving the power to the front wheels will come as standard.
Source – AutoCarIndia
