Citroen India seems like has massive plans for the Indian market. After a slew of new launches, we have yet another exciting news from the French automaker Till date, we have the C3 Hatchback, its electric derivative eC3 and the recently launched C3 Aircross 7-seater compact SUV. One exciting statement during the C3 Aircross debut event was Citroen hinting at its intention of launching an electrified version of its 7-seater compact SUV. Now as per spy shots, Citroen seems to have started with the testing of eC3 Aircross.
Once launched, this will become India’s first under INR 20 lakh electric 7-seater. The test mule was spotted in Chennai recently. In the short video, we see that the test mule has been heavily camouflaged. Upon close inspection, we can see the battery module jutting out of its skateboard. We are not sure of the battery specifications yet. But, a 40 kWh battery is possible. This is considering the smaller Nexon EV Max that gets a 40.5 kWh battery. The electric version will follow the C3 Aircross to a great extent. Thus, we are expecting the same exterior looks with the same interiors as well as features.
We are aware that Hyundai is also testing an electrified Creta to launch in India. Thus, it could share powertrains with Kona EV and will rival Mahindra XUV400, MG ZS EV and the smaller Tata Nexon EV Max. Talking of Citroen eC3 Aircross, it will lock horns with these EVs. We are expecting Citroen to launch it with a claimed range of about 450 km with a real-world range of 350 km. The key highlight of the eC3 is the 7 seats (5+2) configuration.
The current eC3 hatchback on sale retails at INR 11.50 lakh to INR 12.43 lakh. This is close to INR 5 lakh over its ICE counterparts. Thus, if ICE C3 Aircross retails from INR 8.5 to INR 9 lakh. We assume that the eC3 Aircross is likely to fall in INR 16 lakh ballpark figure (all prices ex-sh).
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