Citroën ë-C3 Scores Zero-Star Crash Test Rating In Global NCAP Results

The electric hatchback scored zero-star in adult occupant protection and 1-star in child occupant protection.

In the latest round of crash tests under the #SaferCarsForIndia initiative, a Made-In-India car has undergone testing, but the outcome is disappointing. The electric version of the Citroën C3 hatchback- the ë-C3- didn’t quite impress, as it received a dismal zero-star rating. Even more surprising considering it's Citroën we're talking about here since the brand is known worldwide for whipping up safer rides that won't break the bank.

Also Read: Tata Nexon Facelift Scores 5-Star Rating At Global NCAP; Again!

But this isn't the first time that the C3 has disappointed. Dial back to 2023 when the Brazil-made C3 pulled off a zero-star rating at Global NCAP crash tests. And let's just say, we have a hunch that the rating for the India-spec C3 might end up being a carbon copy of its electric counterpart. The ë-C3 is made only in India for the globe and comes with just two airbags as standard, no ESC, and even no seat belt reminders.

In adult occupant protection tests, the ë-C3 scored 20.86 points out of 34 points, and zero stars. While the small hatch effectively protects the head and neck, there are concerns regarding protecting the driver's and passenger's chest areas. There's a noted presence of potentially hazardous structures behind the dashboard posing a risk to the driver.

Also Read: Tata Safari, Harrier Get 5-Star Crash Test Rating Under New Bharat NCAP

The assessment showed marginal head protection, adequate chest protection and good abdomen and pelvis protection. The footwell area was rated unstable, but the bodyshell was rated as stable and capable of withstanding further loadings.

For child occupant protection, a 3-year-old strapped in a forward-facing seat resulted in the dummy receiving serious head injuries because of contact with the vehicle interiors. The results were a bit encouraging though when crashed from the side. But what again disappoints is the absence of three-point belts in all spots to buckle up and ISOFIX anchorages. In this test, the ë-C3 managed to secure 10.55 points out of 49 points, securing only one star.

Also Read: Hyundai Verna Receives 5-Star Crash Test Rating In Global NCAP Results

While the company has announced plans to implement improvements such as six airbags, ISOFIX seat anchorage, and rear seatbelt reminders as standard features, these enhancements are slated to take effect only by July of this year. For now, though, Citroën will have to deal with the zero-star rating on the ë-C3 because just when Made-In-India cars were creating waves globally by raking in 5 stars, we have one that has gotten a zero.

Commenting on the poor result of the ë-C3, the brand said, "Stellantis confirms its vehicles comply with all current local market regulations and its commitment to safety with six airbags and additional safety features as standard across products in India during the second half of the year."