The successor to the not-so-successful Citroën C4, Citroën, the French Automotive giant, has brought a new compact electric hatchback into the market. Based on the same platform as its predecessor, the e-C4 is full Electric! At first glance, the e-C4 looks elegant and dynamic. Appearing like a compact SUV, it carries strength, character, and sturdiness, thanks to its muscular design and larger alloy wheels.
Entering the arena of Electric Vehicles. With the e-C4, Citroën aims to deliver innovation, aesthetics coupled with the best-in-class comfort and versatility.
Here the things you need to know about the latest electric car from the house of Citroën-
What are the Specs?
The e-C4 looks different from its siblings from DS and Peugeot, but it uses the same 135bhp electric motor and 50kWh battery underneath. Like most electric cars in the market, the electric motor in the e-C4 is energetic and powerful, and it can take the e-C4 from 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds (when in sport mode) and to a top speed of 93mph (150kmph).
The battery in the e-C4 is a high voltage 400V Lithium-ion pack. It offers a WLTP range of about 217 miles (350 km). Supporting the 100kW rapid charging technology, the battery can get to 80% charge in just about 30 minutes. Moreover, for peace of mind, the battery pack comes with 100,000 miles or eight years of warranty. If you are looking for home charging the e-C4 requires a type 2 charging cable. This could a 3 pin to type 2 if your planning on plugging the cable into a standard wall socket or a type 2 to type 2 charging cable if you a using a home ev charging station.
How’s the ride quality and comfort?
Equipped with a fully electric powertrain, the e-C4 is a pleasure to ride with zero CO2 emissions and insulation from the noise and vibration from the driving surface. This new Citroën offers a comfortable and noise-free ride. Moreover, the soft suspension ensures a bump-free riding experience. The new e-C4 can also access the low-emission zones in some cities, which are inaccessible for conventional ICE vehicles.
Which variants are available?
The Citroën e-C4 comes with three versions to choose from – Sense Plus, Shine, and Shine Plus. All models have the following features in common-
- Led Headlights
- AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking)
- Driver Attention Alert
- Lane Keeping Assist
- 10.0-inch Touchscreen
Optional features include- a tablet computer holder, LED interior lightings, rear parking camera, and adaptive cruise control. The top-end variant, the Shine Plus, features a hi-fi sound system with upgraded speakers with the addition of a subwoofer.
What about the strategy?
Apart from a few trim differences, the all-electric e-C4 looks identical to the ICE-propelled C4. With such similar aesthetics, it would need a meticulous eye to differentiate between the two on the road.
Following the same strategy as Citroën's PSA sister brands, Vauxhall and Peugeot. Just like how the- e-2008, e-208, Corsa-e, and Mokka-e were identical to their ICE counterparts. An advert for the versatility of PSA's EMP2 platform that allows ICE and electric cars to be built on the same production line with similar tech harmony. This implies Citroën will now be offering the mid-sized family hatch in petrol, diesel, and electric variants from launch.
VERDICT
The e-C4 is built to stand out from the rest, offering ample practicality, unlike other similar crossovers. With plenty of space and decent range, this EV is one of the best electric hatchbacks out there. Competing mainly with Nissan's Leaf and Volkswagen ID.3, which are designed for range and efficiency. The e-C4 offers more comfort than these EVs. With distinctive aesthetics, the e-C4 appeals to a wide range of buyers in the UK looking for a value for money EV. Lastly, taking all its quirks into account. We reckon the Citroën e-C4 is a great addition to the current EV market.
