Citroën Becomes First Carmaker To Export Locally-Made EVs From India

French carmaker Citroën has become the first foreign auto marque to export locally manufactured electric four-wheelers from India to other foreign markets. The car in question is the eC3, and an initial batch of 500 units of the sub-compact electric SUV has already been shipped to Indonesia. 

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Aligning with the Government of India’s ‘Make In India’ initiative for electric mobility, the latest step will also help increase the adoption of sustainable and clean modes of transportation. “Commencing the export of the versatile 'Made-In-India Citroën ë-C3' electric vehicle to international customers is a proud validation of our engineering and development capabilities. We remain committed to growing in India and promoting sustainable mobility while showcasing India's manufacturing prowess on a global stage," said Aditya Jairaj, CEO & MD of Stellantis India, about the commencement of this export. 

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Citroen eC3: Key Highlights

The Citroën eC3 is powered by a 29.2 kWh battery paired with a 57 kW electric motor that produces 143 Nm. It can accelerate from 0-60 kmph in 6.8 seconds and can do 320 km of range (ARAI-claimed) when fully charged. Available with both DC fast charging and 15 amp home charging options, the former takes a minimum of 57 minutes to charge 0-80 per cent of the battery. 

Designed for the urban environment, the Citroën eC3 boasts the same exterior as its ICE counterpart, the C3 - which is also exported from India to ASEAN and African countries. Similarly, the cabin of the electric sub-compact SUV is also specced in the same manner.

In India, the Citroën eC3 is available in two variants, Feel and Shine, priced from ₹12.70 lakh and ₹13.20 lakh (both ex-showroom, Delhi) onwards, respectively. In this price range, it competes against the likes of the Mahindra XUV400, and MGZS EV, and the Tata Nexon EV.