One of the key attractions of the current Citroen C3 is that it’s a such a high-value model. We asked Hansen when it was decided it was going to be important for the new E-C3, too.
She said: “It’s key, and 25,000 euros or £23,000 (expected UK starting price for the E-C3) is the average price they pay for a car in this class. So, after we invent a blockbuster like the current car, we need to look at society trends, context, and usage for the next one.
“When we started to work on this, some years ago, we had a good forecast on interior and exterior surfaces, but we knew the world we’d be selling into would be difficult. So, it was important for us to have affordability in our DNA.
“We need to preserve the freedom of mobility for everyone – even more in the B-segment. That’s why 25,000 euros is such a significant figure for us, and when you look at E-C3, it could be the main family car. It is key as prices are increasing, and people are very surprised by the Chinese imports. They need to have an EV that is accessible.
“Inflation, recession in some countries, reduced household income – they all have an effect.”
According to Hansen, the first thing Citroen did when it set about reinventing the C3 concept was to look at trends in society.
She explained: “That was key with E-C3, seeing the world we’re moving into, which we knew it would be chaotic, and there would be other constraints, such as prices of energy.
“Despite these, the decision was made to be fully electric, as most customers are trying to transition to electric, but are not able to because of their income.”
With the new E-C3 looking so SUV-like, we went on to ask Hansen if she was concerned that the new car was now too close to the current C3 Aircross SUV in concept.
She replied: “Wait until you see the next C3 Aircross. The current Aircross is ageing, so that should help. The new E-C3 is more SUV-like – it’s easier to get in and out of and has a roomier interior, to help customers transition.
“You will see the new C3 Aircross next year and I think you will be surprised at what you will see.”
We were briefly shown an interior image of the next C3 Aircross at the E-C3 reveal, and the new car had three rows of seats. So, it seems that Citroen is positioning its new small baby SUV as a rival for bigger, high value SUVs, such as the recently debuted all-new Dacia Duster.
It will be interesting to see where Citroen takes the next C3 Aircross, but don’t expect either of these models in the UK any time soon. We were told because of the customer demand for the E-C3, these cars will not hit the UK until the last quarter of 2024, which is a shame.
