Decline in Autonomy for the Citroën ë-C3

Having 20 km less of range is not deal-breaking, but when it accounts for 6% of the total range, it stands out.

Right of Reply: Citroën Confirms the 320 km Range of the ë-C3

Range is undoubtedly THE most observed criterion when deciding to purchase an electric car. The fear of running out of charge is no longer really an issue for thermal cars with the proliferation of gas stations and the old jerrycan. For electric vehicles, however, charging points are still rare, often crowded, and sometimes out of order. Moreover, charging a car takes longer than filling a tank. But you already know all this.

Since January 1, 2017, the WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure) protocol determines the range of electric vehicles. It became the sole standard in France in 2019. The WLTP cycle covers a maximum of real driving conditions: urban, extra-urban, or mixed driving cycles. It lasts 30 minutes over a distance of 23 km at an average speed of 47 km/h, providing an average consumption quite close to what you might encounter in real conditions. We did say close enough because the WLTP procedure imposes 52% urban driving simulation and 48% extra-urban driving. On national roads or highways, you will quickly see these numbers increase. Likewise, using your car in a large city, traffic jams will quickly deplete your kWh.

Ongoing Reduction

With its 44 kWh battery and 113 hp power, the Citroën ë-C3 was announced at its presentation with a WLTP cycle range of 320 km. The French manufacturer slightly modified its message at the start of sales, speaking of a range “over 300 km”. Now, the ë-C3 is announced with 300 km of range and a consumption of 16.4 kWh/100 km “under homologation”. Losing 20 km in just a few months is not insignificant.

So, excessive optimism or aggressive marketing approach? We will be cautious about criticizing Citroën, which is not known for such mistakes. The ë-C3 has never been presented as a long-range vehicle but rather as a smart and virtuous urban mobility solution, which it is at 100% at a very attractive price. An admitted fault, completely forgiven.