The new Citroën C3 Aircross electric: already a strong choice with a single battery retained

When the automotive world electrifies like a teenager in a growth spurt, bold choices are required. However, for the new Citroën C3 Aircross electric, this choice tastes like a reheated meal on a Sunday night, responding to the question and demand for urban mobility with a hint of indifference. On paper, this compact SUV has plenty to attract, but when you look closer, you find it is playing hide and seek with autonomy. But here we are, our precious C3 Aircross couldn’t resist the temptation to tidy up the lineup, and not in the most elegant way.

A controversial choice: only one battery at the party

While it seemed destined for a bright future with a first "comfort autonomy" version launched simultaneously, the Citroën ë-C3 Aircross has already mourned this variant. The lack of choice in this electrifying debate is explained by a timid public attraction to a vehicle with an autonomy as modest as a slug in a marathon. With limited registrations, barely more than 3,000 units sold, it’s hard to compete with sharper rivals. A chance for those dreaming of an aggressive price: the residual model, starting at €29,400, remains the cheapest electric SUV on the market, at least until a new competitor emerges, determined to steal the spotlight.

• First "comfort autonomy" version disappeared.
• Fewer than 3,200 C3 Aircross registered since the beginning of the year.
• Only one "extended autonomy" version offered.

Not only has the new electric model decided to take on the guise of a ghost story with its single battery, but it also carries a heavy responsibility: that of representing automotive innovation in a space saturated with better-performing battery vehicles. After a timid appearance in spring, it dives into summer, a bit like a failed diver trying to avoid the cold water. But where has the version promising accessibility and eco-responsibility gone?

An autonomy to make you shudder

When it comes to electric vehicles, autonomy becomes the primary concern. In the case of this little gem, the autonomy of the single battery simply means: be prepared to refuel often. With highway autonomy measuring barely 145 km and hoping to reach 204 km under optimal conditions, one thing is certain: family outings are destined to be short escapades. One cannot say this model encourages long journeys. Indeed, the modest 44 kWh battery, below expectations, quickly becomes a source of fabulously acute frustration.

• 145 km max on the highway.
• 204 km under optimal conditions.
• 44 kWh battery, too little for a compact SUV.

Aside from the practical aspect of this SUV that fails to rise to the ranks of electric pioneers, the entry price is, of course, attractive. But what’s the point of investing in an electric car if it's a choice between charging at the station or being stuck at home like a child with a broken toy?

Challenges in the electric market

In a context where even industry giants have had to improvise to stay afloat in the sea of electric vehicles, Citroën's decision to set aside a version is particularly revealing of a hesitant market. The rivalry in the SUV universe, especially between the electric C3 Aircross and its cousin the Peugeot e-2008, is intensifying. The e-2008 offers more enriching performance ratings while continuing to maintain a brand image that resonates. And let’s face it, the scent of innovation sometimes has a fragrance that tends to overshadow the absence of the aroma of the vaguely defined electric history.

• Peugeot e-2008: direct competitor with better autonomy.
• Need for progressive revolution to capture a changing market.
• To evolve or risk being swallowed by competition.

The C3 Aircross and its alternatives

If the scent of success continues to meet its promises, opportunities in electric vehicle leasing are multiplying, with a rising trend in social offers. The Citroën C3 Aircross, while promising to attract with its price, must face critical choices against the competition. The public, more discerning than ever, is turning to leasing to give themselves the best chances of driving towards a sustainable future, but without the famed "comfort" of the past. For more information on these leasing options, take a look here.

• Leasing to access more competitive options.
• Visibility of stock of battery models.
• Alternatives to the C3 Aircross are diversifying.

Ultimately, the new Citroën C3 Aircross must resolve its autonomy issues to maintain its place in the market. Goodbye to the accessible version, hello to doubts about its future on the roads. To keep an eye on these innovations, it is imperative to stay connected! For details on the increase in the model's autonomy, check here.

Source: www.automobile-magazine.fr

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