UK’s cheapest EV revealed… but its battery could cause serious issues for motorists
A MAJOR car brand has unveiled a new EV that could usher in an era of affordable electric cars.
But potential buyers have been subtly warned to avoid getting behind the wheel if they plan on driving any further than 50 miles.
Set to be launched early next year, the all-new Citroen e-C3 will be one of Britain's cheapest electric cars with a price said to be 'under £23,000'.
But while it's incredibly affordable and will likely attract many newcomers to EVs, the e-C3 isn't perhaps the best choice for motorists planning long journeys.
The e-C3 is reportedly built on a ‘smart car’ platform and will boast a 44kWh LFP battery pack locacted underneath the rear seats.
The maker have admitted this particular battery tech isn’t as efficient at low temperatures as regular, more expensive batteries seen in EVs.
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What's more, this particular model won’t be available with a heat pump to optimise the battery.
But in response, Citroen have claimed the majority of e-C3 customers will drive less than 50 miles a day.
This, they claim, makes the EVs range less important than keeping costs down.
Citroen will also offer an even cheaper battery option at a later date, with around 124 miles of range, with an estimated price for this version estimated to start at £20,000.
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Other issues with e-C3 is the front-mounted electric motor, inverter and corresponding electronics taking up extra space underneath the bonnet.
UK models will be available in three trim lines: You!, Plus, and Max, with each boasting varying levels of standard equipment.
Despite their modest valuation, all e-C3’s will come with cruise control, rear parking sensors, air-conditioning, LED headlights and automatic autonomous braking.
This news will come as a boast for EV fans in the UK, just days after a popular car brand discontinued its top-selling EV.
Meanwhile, EV drivers have been ‘ripped off’ by a hidden issue which costs £1,000s a year.
