Citroën Ups Power and Range on C-Segment BEVs
In a bid to offer a more premium mid-sector BEV, Citroën is boosting power and range on its ë-C4 and ë-C4 X models.
The French brand’s BEVs now boast two powertrain options for these C-segment vehicles with the range-topper claiming a range of up to 260 miles on the combined WLTP cycle. A hybrid synchronous electric motor (HSM), claiming 115 kW or 154bhp, has replaced the permanent magnet synchronous electric motor on previous models. It produces an additional 20bhp, while maintaining efficiency and is capable of developing 191ft-lbs of torque.
It is coupled with a new 54 kWh battery, 4 kWh more than the current electric offer. Compact and with liquid thermal regulation and a heat pump as standard for fast charging, it has different chemistry and comprises 102 cells and 17 modules. Instead of 60% nickel, 20% manganese and 20% cobalt, this high-voltage lithium-Ion battery has a higher nickel ratio at 80% nickel, 10% manganese and 10% cobalt, claiming in improved energy density and longer battery life. In addition to the increase in overall operating range, the vehicles claim more than 18 miles extra range in urban traffic conditions even at temperatures close to 0°C.
Two types of on-board chargers are available with this new electric motor on ë-C4 and ë-C4 X: a single-phase 7.4 kW charger as standard and, as an option, a three-phase 11 kW charger. In addition, ë-C4 and ë-C4 X are compatible with fast charging. Using a 100 kW public terminal, it should be possible to go from 20% to 80% charge in less than 30 minutes. Both models also offer a lower specification powertrain using a 100 kW (135bhp) motor combined with a 50 kWh battery with a claimed range up to 223 miles.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
