New Citroën ë-C3 wins Ecobest Award 2024
On December 21, 2023, in Poissy, Citroën's new ë-C3 achieved the prestigious Ecobest Award 2024, as bestowed by the Autobest jury. This accolade, which underscores the vehicle's commitment to environmentally friendly mobility, energy efficiency, and reduced environmental impact, positions the ë-C3 as the standout electric car entering the market in 2024. This innovative vehicle comes with an affordable price starting at €23,300 and offers user-friendliness, versatility, attractive styling, and a comfortable onboard experience.
Autobest has recognised exceptional cars since 2002, and the Ecobest category assesses vehicles based on their environmental performance, including range, battery, charging, and cost of ownership. The new ë-C3 secured the top spot after being evaluated by 31 motoring journalists from 31 European countries, earning it the "Ecobest" 2024 award.
This recognition follows enthusiastic feedback from customers, with over 10,000 bookings for the "You" or "Max" versions made online. Citroën's dedication to pushing the boundaries of mobility is further underlined by this Ecobest award, affirming their commitment to delivering electric cars that meet environmental standards and address accessibility challenges innovatively.
Featuring an 83 kW (113hp) electric motor and a 44 kWh battery offering a range of up to 320 km in the WLTP cycle, the new ë-C3 provides ample power and performance for urban and suburban travel, with quick 100 kW DC fast recharging, taking the battery from 20% to 80% capacity in just 26 minutes. The addition of the new e-Routes brilliant EV trip planner makes longer journeys more convenient.
Versatility and superior comfort are paramount in the B-segment, and the new ë-C3 excels in both areas. Designed to meet the needs of families, it combines electric smoothness and quietness with spaciousness and exceptional comfort, reflecting Citroën's DNA. The vehicle boasts a "C-Zen lounge" cabin, featuring revamped Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats and an uncluttered dash panel with a fabric-covered 'Sofa Design' shelf, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by Citroën Advanced Comfort Suspensions.
With its modern design, offering a blend of B-hatchback characteristics with higher ground clearance and seating position while maintaining the same footprint as the C3, the ë-C3 caters to evolving customer needs. It provides an array of practical equipment and driver assistance technologies, making electric living accessible and convenient.
Also worth a look: the New Citroën Aircross: Family-Friendly and Feature-Packed and the Citroen C3.
FAQ
Q: What does the new Citroën ë-C3 cost in South Africa?
The new Citroën ë-C3 starts at approximately R450,000 in South Africa, based on the European pricing of €23,300 and local import duties, making it one of the most affordable electric cars in the premium compact segment.
Q: What is the range and charging time of the Citroën ë-C3?
The Citroën ë-C3 delivers up to 320km range on the WLTP cycle with its 44 kWh battery, and charges from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes using 100 kW DC fast charging.
Q: Is the Citroën ë-C3 worth buying in South Africa?
The Citroën ë-C3 is absolutely worth considering if you want an affordable electric car with proper range, especially since it won the prestigious Ecobest Award 2024 for environmental performance and offers 83 kW of power with excellent comfort features.
Q: How powerful is the Citroën ë-C3 electric motor?
The Citroën ë-C3 packs an 83 kW electric motor that delivers smooth, quiet performance perfect for both city driving and longer suburban journeys.
Q: What makes the Citroën ë-C3 special compared to other electric cars?
The Citroën ë-C3 stands out with its award-winning environmental credentials, spacious "C-Zen lounge" cabin, new e-Routes trip planner, and the fact that over 10,000 customers have already booked one online.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the Citroën ë-C3 is the best affordable electric car under R500,000 in South Africa right now. At around R450,000, you're getting an award-winning EV that actually makes sense, with proper 320km range, lightning-fast 26-minute charging, and 83 kW of smooth electric power. The fact that it won the Ecobest Award 2024 from 31 European motoring journalists isn't just marketing fluff, it proves this little Citroën can compete with the big boys. Plus, with over 10,000 bookings already, you know you're not buying a dud. If you want to go electric without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort, the ë-C3 is your best bet.
