What is happening with the Citroën Oli?

Citroën has proven with the Ami that a simple and affordable electric car makes sense. So why not launch the Oli?

Measuring 4.20 m, the Oli concept is roughly the size of a Citroën C4… You’ve got it, this is the preferred route to transition this model from concept stage to mass production. Of course, it will be necessary to revise the very radical concept of the vertically positioned windshield, which raises the question of where the rear end and the front end are… just like with the Ami! Because a disruptive model has its advantages, particularly from a marketing standpoint, at a time when the automotive market is defined by various shades of SUVs.

Citroën has accustomed us to daring

The aim of the concept presented back in 2022 was to focus on simplicity by keeping the total weight to 1,000 kilograms. Lighter weight means less energy needed for movement, therefore greater range, thus smaller batteries, leading to less weight. A small battery also helps reduce charging times, making long trips easier. 400 km of range with the ability to recover 80% of the battery in a few minutes is perfect for long distances without wasting too much time.

However, some solutions will not meet the requirements for homologation. Certain panels made of structured corrugated cardboard will need to be replaced with fiberglass or aluminum, but nothing prohibitive. At a minimum, a small digital screen will need to be integrated for essential information, whereas the original idea was to rely solely on a smartphone.

As proof of Citroën’s continued interest in this concept two years after its presentation, it proudly sits on the manufacturer’s website alongside the entire commercial lineup. So let’s take a bit of boldness and get going!

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