New Delhi: French carmaker Citroën is preparing to launch its first electric car in India. Based on the carmaker’s new model C3, the electric car has been named the eC3 and is likely to be launched early next year. The French carmaker had earlier confirmed that the first electric car would be launched in 2023.
Carlos Tavares, CEO of Citroën brand owner Stellantis, had said that the eC3 could be launched in a new form. The company has indicated that it may be showcased at the Indian Auto Expo to be held in Delhi in early January.
Will it be the cheapest EV?
The Citroen eC3 has been spied testing several times ahead of its debut. When launched, the SUV-like electric hatchback is likely to be one of the cheapest EVs to hit Indian roads. It will take on the Tata Tiago EV, which is currently the cheapest electric car in the segment.
The car will be made in India only
Citroën has recently released the teaser of the upcoming electric car named eC3. The carmaker said that more details will be shared soon. It is expected to be officially launched in the next few weeks. Citroën had earlier confirmed that the eC3 electric vehicle will be made locally in India, which will help the carmaker to price it aggressively.
EV cost big challenge
The cost of an EV is one of the most important factors in India, where there is currently no electric car under Rs 10 lakh. Carlos Tavares previously said, “How to make electric vehicles affordable for the middle class? This is the biggest challenge. Only access can create a scale and only then can it have a significant impact on the environment.” Local production of the EV will help in keeping the price of the Citroen eC3 as low as possible.
The car will be equipped with a 30 kWh battery
To control the cost, Citroen is expected to tie up with local suppliers for the supply of battery material. The eC3 is expected to come with a smaller battery with around 30 kWh capacity. Tavares had said, “There is a huge opportunity for India to be able to sell electric compact cars at an affordable price.”
