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The Citroen eC3 is the brand’s first all-electric offering in India, available in two trims, Feel and Shine, with prices starting at ₹12.7 lakh (ex-showroom). Equipped with a compact yet efficient powertrain, the eC3 promises a claimed range of 320km on a single charge. To see how it performs under real-world conditions, we conducted a comprehensive driving range test. Here’s what we discovered.
Specifications and Setup
The eC3 comes with a single 29.2kWh battery pack and a front-mounted motor producing 56bhp and 143Nm of torque. Our test began in the standard drive mode with the regenerative braking system set to its default level. While the ideal AC temperature is typically set between 21 to 23 degrees, the eC3’s manual air conditioning was adjusted to an estimated 23 degrees, with the fan speed kept at level one.
Real-World Test Conditions
We primarily drove the eC3 within city limits, with 25% of the journey conducted on highways. During the test, the car’s performance and battery consumption were monitored closely. Interestingly, the air conditioning automatically shut off when the battery dropped to 5%, and the maximum speed was limited to 10kmph once the charge fell to 2%.
Test Results
The Citroen eC3 managed to cover a total of 218.8km before the battery was completely drained. This is significantly lower than the claimed range of 320km but provides a realistic expectation for mixed driving conditions. Below is a breakdown of the battery percentage and corresponding range achieved during the test:
| Battery Percentage | Range Remaining (km) | Distance Covered (km) |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | 228 | 0 |
| 75% | 171 | 54.3 |
| 50% | 118 | 114.4 |
| 25% | 51 | 173 |
| 0% | 0 | 218.8 |
Key Observations
- AC Functionality: The air conditioning cut off automatically at 5% battery to conserve power.
- Speed Limitation: At 2% battery, the car’s speed was capped at 10kmph, effectively signaling the need for an immediate recharge.
- City Driving Efficiency: The eC3 performed well in urban settings but fell short of the claimed range during the highway segment.
Conclusion
While the Citroen eC3 doesn’t match its advertised range, it offers a respectable real-world performance of 218.8km under mixed driving conditions. Its compact size, efficient powertrain, and reasonable pricing make it a compelling option for urban commuters seeking an affordable electric vehicle. However, prospective buyers should account for a reduced range during highway drives and consider their specific usage patterns when opting for the eC3.
