Citroën challenges the rulebook for European-designed and built B-segment cars with the reveal of the characterful fourth generation C3. All-electric ë-C3 delivers best-in-class comfort, easy electric experience, outstanding level of equipment and incredible value for money while being made in Europe.

The all-electric ë-C3 proudly heads up the fourth-generation line-up of Citroën’s most popular car, which has sold more than 5.6 million units since the launch of the first generation in 2002. The C3 is being the brand’s most popular model and representing 29 percent of Citroën’s European sales volume. In 2022, the C3 captured 11 percent overall of the European B-segment market.

Significantly, the all-new ë-C3 signals a new chapter for Citroën. The popular and daring brand is reinventing itself to aggressively meet head-on the challenges of making all-electric mobility accessible to all with the first European-designed and Europe-built all-electric B-hatchback for customers wanting the benefits of zero-emission mobility at a net, fair and affordable price.

Citroën CEO Thierry Koskas explains: “Offering affordable vehicles has always been a major part of Citroën’s DNA. But customer expectations for vehicles in the B-segment have changed, notably with the rise in popularity of SUVs and the increasing desire to drive electric in and around our cities, and it has become more challenging for European vehicle makers to meet those expectations. Uniquely, Citroën is daring to do exactly that with the all-new, all-electric ë-C3 for European buyers: a fresh, sharp and comfortable B-hatch that is fully-equipped, specifically designed for and made in Europe, and extremely affordable with on-the-road prices starting at 23,300 Euros.”

1 – BEST IN CLASS COMFORT

• Citroën ë-C3 delivers the ‘magic carpet ride’ feeling by mating for the first-time acclaimed Citroën Advanced Comfort® Suspension with new Citroën Advanced Comfort® Seats.
• Taller and squarer but within similar footprint: all-new ë-C3 offers no-compromise comfort, higher driving position (+100mm vs. B-hatch) to make ingress and egress easier, higher ground clearance, plus exterior protective elements to reflect customer tastes.

ALL-NEW Ë-C3 ADDS PROGRESSIVE HYDRAULIC CUSHIONS

For the first time in the history of the C3 hatchback, Citroën is fitting its innovative and exclusive Citroën Advanced Comfort® Suspension as standard equipment to all versions of the all-new, all-electric ë-C3.

Invisible to the driver and occupants, Progressive Hydraulic Cushions® ensure vehicle occupants enjoy a unique ‘magic carpet ride’ feeling of comfort on the road thanks to the use of progressive Hydraulic bump stops, allowing engineers greater freedom to tune the all-new ë-C3’s suspension to give the impression that the car is gliding when driving over uneven ground. Two stops are used on each corner of the vehicle in conjunction with the shock absorber and spring instead of mechanical stops – one for compression the other for decompression (or rebound).

The acclaimed system works in two stages. For lighter compression and decompression, the spring and shock absorber control vertical movements together, with no assistance required from the hydraulic stops. For major impacts, the spring and shock absorber work together with the hydraulic stops, to slow the movement gradually, and iron out jolts at the end of the range. Unlike a mechanical stop that absorbs energy and then returns part of it as a shock, the hydraulic stop absorbs and dissipates this energy.

“Comfort is a key part of Citroën’s DNA. It’s very important to us because it’s very important to our customers. That’s why we have gone to extraordinary lengths to make the all-new ë-C3 the most comfortable car in the B-hatch segment with Citroën innovations like new versions of our Citroën Advanced Comfort® Seats and – for the first time on C3 – our Citroën Advanced Comfort® Suspension” said Laurence Hansen, Citroën Product and Strategy Director.

HOMELIKE INTERIOR FOR CLASS-LEADING COMFORT

The spacious interior has been crafted around simple yet refined surfaces to provide occupants with an ambience similar to that of their home living room or lounge. All-new ë-C3’s new pattern Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats are tailored for the car and use additional foam to provide a welcoming and soft feel from first contact and a supportive ride whatever the distance.

It continues with the all-new design which, at 1.57m high, provides front seat occupants with 30mm more headroom for a higher, more commanding driving position with an enhanced feeling of control and safety.  Everyone benefits from greater outward visibility, helping to boost the feeling of wellbeing when on-board.  In fact, all-new ë-C3 is roomier inside in almost every dimension than its predecessor, despite being only 19mm longer and 6mm wider.  Rear passenger elbowroom is superior by 19mm, and front by 21mm to the average market, while rear seat knee clearance is best in class, at least 20mm greater than average.

Carrying items and luggage is easy in the all-new ë-C3. Its taller interior is filled with useful and smart stowage areas on door panels, the centre console and under the central armrest, while a wireless charging mat is available for the centre console (standard on ‘Max’ version). Comfortable 60-40 rear seatback modularity (standard on Max version) and a width between rear wheelarches of 1015mm ensures that owners can transport larger objects whenever they need to, and the generous 310 litres of luggage volume behind the rear seats should be ample for most shopping trips.

At 1.57m high (excluding roof bars), the all-new ë-C3 is taller than its predecessor, and benefits from SUV-style ground clearance to make ingress and egress easier and provide a more assured ride over the speed bumps, kerbs, and potholes often encountered in urban and suburban driving. Ground clearance is an impressive 163mm for the all-electric ë-C3 compared to a ground clearance of 135mm in the prior model.

2 – EASY ELECTRIC LIFE

• 83kW/113hp electric motor delivers power and torque for daily commute and long journeys while 44kWh LFP battery pack provides up to 320km (199 miles) WLTP driving range. 
• 100kW DC fast recharging from 20 to 80 percent capacity in just 26 minutes. Easy access to more than 540,000 charging station across Europe.
• Connected navigation with new ë-ROUTES App ensures journey times will be reduced and more reliable ‘live’ charging network is always accessible.

First in Stellantis, the cost-efficient, BEV-native platform uses a 44kWh LFP (Lithium Ferro Phosphate) battery pack to deliver up to 320km (199 miles) WLTP driving range, and 100kW DC fast charging capability allows recharging from 20 to 80 percent capacity in 26 minutes.

Standard AC recharging, from 20% to 80%, takes around 4h10 using 7kW power, or 2h50 if 11kW is available. Accessing both home and public AC charging facilities is easy using the standard supplied Mode 3 cable which is ideal for regular recharging at home using a wall box, as well as out and about at public charging stations. The cable can charge with either a single-phase 7.4kW or three-phase 11kW wall box.

With its 83kW (113hp) motor and fully automatic transmission accelerating the car from 0-100 km/h (62mph) in around 11 seconds, and a provisional top speed of 135km/h (84mph), the all-new ë-C3 delivers more than enough power and performance to deal with everyday driving and traffic, particularly in urban and suburban environments.

Owners will also be able to plan journeys, as well as monitor their charging status and battery level in real time and enjoy a complete navigation experience thanks to the new e-ROUTES App. This is specifically designed for Citroën electric vehicles as part of the company’s ‘Connect Plus’ connected services subscription.  Using the MyCitroën App, ë-C3 drivers will also be able to manage charging schedules, as well as pre-heat or pre-cool the vehicle and check its battery level and location.

Drivers of the all-new, all-electric Citroën ë-C3 choosing the ‘Connect Plus’ option will benefit from a suite of dedicated new tools to make their ownership experience stress-free.  These include:

• The Citroën e-ROUTES app has been specially developed for Citroën electric vehicles and is a driver’s passport to the most efficient route planning, easy battery level monitoring and live charging network data.  With this integrated App, drivers can be assured that journey times will be reduced, the best and most reliable ‘live’ charging network data is accessible, they will always know what percentage of battery power will remain on arrival, and re-routing will happen automatically if necessary.
• E-Remote allows owners to use their MyCitroën App as a remote control for their ë-C3 in order to pre-heat or pre-cool the vehicle before departure, manage charging schedules, monitor charge status, and show vehicle location.

The car is automatically paired with e-ROUTES when owners enter its details into their MyCitroën account.

3 – FULLY EQUIPPED

• All-new, all-electric Citroën ë-C3 surprises and delights with comprehensive portfolio of equipment and smart solutions complementing no-compromise focus on comfort.
• C-Zen Lounge, with Citroën Head Up Display and compact steering wheel, a smart approach to reinvent the dashboard and replace the traditional instrument cluster providing easy access to all key information without taking drivers’ eyes off the road.
• Built-in smartphone holder that allows drivers to auto launch a dedicated new App using NFC (Near Field Communication) wireless technology for infotainment.
• Wide range of Citroën driver assistance features now fitted to all versions offers comfort, reassurance and support.

Ensuring class-leading comfort and a serene environment for everyone on board have been clear priorities for the design and engineering teams of the all-electric ë-C3. However, this is just the start of the story, as equally important was giving this European-designed and built B-hatchback a surprisingly comprehensive array of equipment and smart solutions to suit all customer needs.

C-ZEN LOUNGE

Setting new standards for interior design was a top of mind objective. All-new ë-C3 features C-Zen lounge, an innovative, spacious, and well-equipped interior, which – as can be expected from Citroën – reinvents the traditional dashboard and provides extremely high levels of comfort.

With the introduction of the C-Zen Lounge, the driver and front passenger are treated to a clean and uncluttered view forwards as if looking through a wide arch, thanks to the large windscreen and horizontal fascia that graphically stretches across the entire vehicle and is flanked by Citroën’s signature vertical air vents. The fascia is split into two distinct levels, with the technical elements above, and a cozy fabric-wrapped ‘Sofa Design style’ section below.

A real departure for the upper level of the fascia is the lack of a traditional instrument cluster.  All-new all-electric ë-C3 sees the first use of a new Citroën Head Up Display that reflects vehicle information onto a glossy black section between the top of the dash panel and the bottom of the windscreen. This smart solution ensures there is no duplication of information as there would traditionally be between a Head Up Display system and instrument cluster, and ensures drivers can easily access all the key information they need without taking their eyes off the road.

The compact new multi-function steering wheel is smaller and easier to handle, and is reach and rake-adjustable which helps to ensure that the Citroën Head Up Display is unobstructed when operational.

At the centre of the fascia floats a 10.25-inch, colour infotainment screen, angled slightly towards the driver, while ‘My Citroen Play with Smartphone Station’ with a dedicated App is offered as standard equipment for owners of the ‘You’ model to access music, radio, calls and navigation via their own device.

The fabric-wrapped and softly curved horizontal “Sofa Design style” section below is designed to add warmth and visual character to the cockpit, while amplifying the feelings of comfort and serenity.

“We are very proud of the spacious interior, in particular our new fascia treatment with its juxtaposition between the cleaner, technical upper section and the warmer ‘Sofa Design style’ lower section. It is rare in this segment for the upper part of the fascia to have such an uncluttered feel to the left and right sides, and we have achieved this with the introduction of our new C-Zen Lounge with Citroën Head Up Display. Floating the central infotainment screen or smartphone station in the centre also meant that we didn’t have to integrate these in a bulky or ungainly way”, said Boris Reinmöller, Project Designer Manager.

SEAMLESS CONNECTIVITY

Despite being a relatively compact car, the all-electric ë-C3 places huge importance on connected infotainment choices, all of which are focused on ease of use by occupants and fast access to smart, useful features customers need to travel easily and live their connected lives seamlessly.

Instinctive steering wheel controls plus a ‘Home’ button on all versions ensure a stress-free experience for the driver when behind the wheel.  Two levels of infotainment system are available:

• MY CITROËN PLAY WITH SMARTPHONE STATION is standard on ‘You’ models and features a built-in smartphone holder that allows drivers to ‘dock’ their device and auto launch a dedicated new App using NFC (Near Field Communication) wireless technology. Via this app, owners use their device to access shortcuts to Phone, Radio, Navigation and Music App services. The ë-C3’s steering wheel controls ensure drivers keep their hands on the wheel, and the ‘Home’ button makes it easy to navigate back to the homepage of the App.
• MY CITROËN DRIVE WITH 10’’ TOUCHSCREEN is standard on ‘Max’. The central, ergonomically designed 10.25-inch colour screen uses smartphone-inspired widget architecture to provide access through virtual shortcuts to key navigation, phone, radio, Apps and media functions. Wireless WiFi capability allows smartphone mirroring and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Customers can sign up to one or both levels of Connected Services subscriptions to make the most of their system via their MyCitroën account while using the internet or the MyCitroën App.

‘Connect One’ offers immediate access to e-Call and Citroën Assistance, tele-maintenance services and a digital booklet.

For a modest monthly fee following a one-year trial, ‘Connect Plus’ offers real-time traffic information to ensure drivers can choose the optimal route for journeys, as alternatives are calculated and suggested based on anticipated traffic flows and ongoing jams or congestion.

All two versions of the new ë-C3 and their respective standard infotainment system levels (My Citroen Play with Smartphone Station, My Citroën Drive with 10’’ touchscreen) are compatible with the Citroën e-ROUTES app.

DRIVER ASSISTANCE FEATURES THAT CARE 

The all-new ë-C3’s comprehensive collection of the latest Citroën driver assistance technologies is engineered to care for the minds and bodies of every occupant, above all the driver, and includes:

• Active Safety Brake is an emergency braking system operating from 5 to 135km/h, day and night, to help reduce injuries to vehicle occupants as well as pedestrians and cyclists.
• Active Lane Departure Warning System helps the driver to maintain correct positioning between road lane markings by either gently correcting the steering as the car drifts out of its lane or by alerting the driver to drifting at lower speeds. It operates between 60 and 180km/h, and is deactivated when turn signals are in use.
• Driver Attention Alert informs the driver if the trajectory of the vehicle is inappropriate within its lane. This two-step alert first detects vehicle swaying and alerts the driver with a sound and message to ‘Drive Carefully’, then sounds an additional alert and message advising ‘Dangerous Driving’ once four sways are detected.  Coffee Break Alert advises the driver to take a break after 2 hours of continuous driving at more than 65km/h and is repeated every hour after that if no break is taken.
• Speed Limit Recognition reads speed limit signs and displays these on the Citroën Head Up Display in order to inform the driver. This smart system leverages speed limit data held in the navigation system and can also read temporary speed limit signs. The Cruise Control with Speed Limiter allows the driver to restrict their maximum speed to ensure compliance.
• The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is applied automatically when the engine stops, and releases automatically when the accelerator is pressed.  The driver can operate the EPB manually via a control lever in the centre console. Additionally, Hill Start Assist holds the vehicle for several seconds on slopes greater than 3 percent to help the driver prevent unwanted movement.  

• Intelligent Beam Headlights use the windscreen-mounted camera to automatically switch between dipped and main beams when oncoming vehicles are detected and pass safely.

• Rear Parking Sensors audibly warn the driver of the proximity of obstacles including children during reversing manoeuvres. A Rear Camera is activated when reverse gear is engaged to provide a view behind the vehicle and warn the driver of possible obstacles via the 10.25-inch colour screen (where fitted).

4 – BEST VALUE FOR MONEY

• 320km range ë-C3 to be offered at fair and net prices in many European markets, starting at 23,300 Euros as Citroën aggressively ramps up its mission to make all-electric mobility accessible to all.
• For consumers, simplicity of choice is ensured with streamlined line-up of two well-equipped versions ‘You’ and ‘Max’.
• 200 km range Citroën ë-C3 will arrive in 2025 with price starting at 19,990 Euros.

NEW PLATFORM TO DELIVER COST EFFICIENCIES

For the first time in Europe, Citroën has engineered the all-new Citroën ë-C3 around a platform designed from the outset to accommodate an all-electric powertrain.  Underpinning the car is a version of the highly flexible global Stellantis ‘Smart Car’ platform, and this has enabled Citroën to make the all-new ë-C3 accessible to customers at prices starting from 23,300 Euros.

“Our global Smart Car platform is extremely efficient and we are already leveraging its capabilities outside Europe through new region-specific Citroën models in markets like India and South America. It was the ideal starting point for the all-new European ë-C3 line-up and even though it was engineered with all-electric capability from the start, it is flexible enough to house ICE powertrains as well as underpin larger and smaller vehicles, including SUVs,” said Laurence Hansen, Citroën Product and Strategy Director.

NET PRICE AND SIMPLIFIED CHOICE

Making the purchasing experience easier for customers was a key priority. In many European markets, the all-new Citroën ë-C3 will be proposed at fair and net price with the entry level version ‘You’ starting at 23,300 Euros.

“Buying a new car can prove challenging when it comes to understanding the often huge array of versions and options customers can choose from and have to pay for. At Citroën, we want to make the whole process simpler and fairer for customers with a ‘smart range’ approach to series levels as well as more transparency in pricing,” said Nicolas Monnot, Citroën vice president global Pricing & Performance.

The all-new, all-electric ë-C3 will be available for its European customers in a streamlined line-up of just two well-equipped versions – ‘You’ and ‘Max’.

The lead-in ‘You’ series comes with a high level of standard equipment, including front LED headlamps, Citroën Advanced Comfort® Suspension, Active Safety Brake (emergency braking system), new Citroën Head Up display system, ‘My Citroen Play with Smartphone Station’ for infotainment, electric door mirrors, auto lighting, rear parking radar, rear spoiler, cruise control, manual air conditioning and 6 airbags.

The top-of-the-range ‘Max’ series additionally adds 17-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, Citroën’s two-tone paint with contrasting roof, decorative roof rails, front and rear Skidplates, the 10.25-inch colour touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, Citroën Advanced Comfort® Seats, auto wipers, power folding and heated door mirrors, leather-effect steering wheel, 60/40 folding second row seat and driver seat adjustment, LED rear lamps, rear privacy glass, TEP/Fabric seats, automatic air conditioning, 3D navigation, wireless charging, rear camera, electrochrome rear-view mirror and rear power windows.

All-new ë-C3 will be offered in a choice of 5 distinctive and high-quality paint colours – Polar White, Montecarlo Blue, Elixir Red, Mercury Grey and Perla Nera Black. Citroën’s signature two-tone contrasting roof feature will be offered to customers in as standard equipment in black or white on ‘Max’ version, with the separation on the C-pillar neatly following a sharp form line pressed into the sheet metal of the C-pillar.

STRENGHTEN THE BRAND IN EUROPE

The all-new ë-C3 is the first all-electric B-segment to be offered in the region by a European manufacturer at this price level that has been designed in Europe – at Citroën’s studio in the Stellantis Automotive Design Network facility at Velizy-Villacoublay near Paris – and will be manufactured in Europe at the Stellantis Trnava manufacturing plant in Slovakia.  All-new Citroën ë-C3 arrives in dealerships in the second quarter of 2024.

While Citroën expects the all-new ë-C3 to significantly disrupt the market for European-designed and built B-segment hatchbacks there is more good news on the way for car buyers seeking an even lower price to all-electric urban motoring.  The all-new 320km range model will be joined towards 2025 by a 200 km range version allowing the all-new Citroën ë-C3 to be even more affordable, at 19,990 Euros.

It spearheads a family of new models that will play a major role in enhancing Citroën’s European product line-up and brand values and further strengthen its competitive position at the heart of the market.

“Our mission is to build the Citroën presence in Europe to at least 5 percent share of the European market and the addition early in 2024 of the affordable all-new, all-electric ë-C3 to our portfolio are key enablers to achieving that roadmap. All-new ë-C3 also plays a major role in further strengthening Citroën’s accessible electrification programme, complementing the arrival of our new extended range ë-C4 and ë-C4X models, as well as the unique mobility solution that is the Citroën Ami,” adds Koskas.

5 – BOLD DESIGN WITH NEW BRAND IDENTITY

• Debuting for the first time on a production car is Citroën’s more distinctive new brand signature, with its large new oval logo featuring a new interpretation of the Citroën ‘chevrons’.
• Taller and bolder, Citroën ë-C3 proudly introduces new Citroën design language, first previewed in the 2022 Citroën Oli concept, in which verticality contrasts with horizontal, technically sculpted surfaces.

The fourth-generation Citroën ë-C3 family for Europe has been completely reinvented with a fresh, assertive look embodying Citroën’s bold new brand design signature.

First previewed in the 2022 Citroën Oli concept, the new signature proudly contrasts vertical and horizontal elements in a brave, technical fashion. At the front, the taller, more vertical face incorporates a large new oval ‘chevron’ logo proudly sitting centrally and reinforced on each side by gloss black horizontal grilles featuring an eye-catching and technical interpretation of the chevrons inspired by architectural parametric designs.

A major element is the distinctive new design of front and rear lights which was first seen on the Citroën Oli concept vehicle, and which features a unique three-level lighting signature with one vertical and two horizontal lenses that almost look like blades.

The short, high and horizontal bonnet features technically sculpted surfaces, which catch the light and contrast with the more vertical front profile, feeding into a larger, more upright windscreen and to give the car more volume and accentuate the feeling of protection.

Visible in the side profile are front and rear technically sculpted undercut lines which flow through the beltline into the new signature lighting clusters and subtle creases in the door panels, all of which catch the light and add visual interest.

The signature identity continues at the rear with technical sculpting in the lower part of the rear tailgate, above which sits a horizontal gloss black decorative strip featuring the same chevron-inspired technical pattern used on the vertical front face and flanking the large, centrally positioned new oval Citroën logo. New signature tail light clusters push into the vehicle corners and comprise two horizontal and one vertical lens echoing the front clusters.  Below the opening hatch, a strong bumper is squared off at the outer corners to aid aerodynamics and further heighten the assertive stance of the car.

Larger 16- steel and 17-inch steel and diamond-cut alloy wheels (standard on ‘Max versions) are pushed out to the corners to signal stability and solidity, yet the car retains a compact footprint at just 4.01m long and 1.76m wide.

“We believe the all-new, all-electric Citroën ë-C3 is a game changer for the B-hatchback segment as we have listened to what attributes customers most appreciate in SUVs and incorporated the best benefits of these traits in the car’s taller, more purposeful styling. So while it has a similar footprint in terms of length and width to its predecessor, we have made it 100mm taller for a greater feeling of strength and presence on the road, with the added bonuses of higher ground clearance and a higher seating position so drivers and passengers feel more comfortable riding over potholes, kerbs and other obstacles on today’s city streets,” said Pierre Leclercq, Head of Citroën Design.

*New ë-C3 will be offered at a net price starting at 23,300 euros in France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, at the converted price in zloty for Poland and at 23,300 euros plus eventual registration fees for Italy and Spain.

“Paris turned upside down”. When the ground becomes the sky and the sky becomes the ground, DS 4 drives on a carpet of clouds and is suspended in the middle of a hitherto unseen Paris… In this inverted world, with its dreamlike setting made up of hot air balloons, fireworks and iconic monuments where you can explore Paris from the sky, DS 4 showcases its incredible comfort and daring design. Consequently it highlights its differentiating qualities: the comfort of its camera-controlled suspension, its soundproofing, the refinement of its materials as well as the cutting-edge in-car technologies such as night vision.

The notes of Cheek to Cheek accompany this ingenious broomstick. Composed in 1935 by Irving Berlin, the song was first performed by Fred Astaire, a dancer at the top of his game, and Ginger Rogers in Top Hat, before being popularised worldwide by Louis Armstrong / Ella Fitzgerald. The arrangement for DS 4 is by Flavio Ibba and Paolo Fedreghini, with the aim of combining this sweet melody with the world of silence.

“With ‘Travel French class’, DS Automobiles is showcasing its expertise in terms of comfort and refinement, which are distinguishing attributes of DS 4. This poetic new film, in which DS 4 crosses Paris at night, illustrates these differentiating qualities. A chance to rise up to discover new perspectives in defining comfort.”
Olivier François, DS Automobiles CEO

Travel remains the main theme of DS 4. Focused on comfort, “Upgrade to French class” is the second advertising film dedicated to the DS Automobiles compact hatchback, following the “When technology dreams of travel” campaign launched in 2021.

“Upgrade to French class” also introduces the brand’s new signature. After “Spirit of Avant-Garde”, which has been around since 2014, “Travelling is an Art” now accompanies the DS Automobiles logo. This new signature presents travel as a way of life and a form of artistic expression. It reveals travel in its most creative, imaginative and curious form, it also intends to be cultural and inspiring.

Acclaimed by the press and crowned with numerous accolades, including the award for the most beautiful car of the year at the 2022 International Automobile Festival, DS 4 is France’s best-selling premium compact hatchback in 2023.

As part of that strategy, we continuously invest in our in-house software development and testing capabilities. Today, we reveal one of our biggest investments to date: a new, state-of-the-art software testing centre in Gothenburg, Sweden, that amplifies our capacity for integrated software testing at all levels.

At a size of around 22,000 square meters and representing an initial investment of around SEK 300 million, our new software testing centre is the new flagship in our network of engineering centres and Tech Hubs around the world. We also operate software test centres in Lund, Sweden, and Shanghai, China, but our new Gothenburg facility is by far the largest in terms of size and capacity.

We’re going to need that capacity, because as our EX90 flagship demonstrates, the automotive industry is rapidly changing. The Volvo car of the future is fully electric, increasingly sold online, powered by cutting-edge core computers running in-house-developed software and constantly improves over time thanks to regular, over-the-air software updates.

That makes in-house software development and testing key to achieving our strategic ambitions, which include being an industry leader in new technology and a fully electric car company by 2030.

“This is a state-of-the-art facility that will be the hub for our global software testing and validation activities,” said Anders Bell, our Global Head of R&D. “Developers from all our global engineering sites and Tech Hubs can run software tests here remotely, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. I firmly believe that with this new testing centre, we’ve set a new benchmark for the automotive industry.”  

The new software testing facility will initially employ around 100 people, a figure that is expected to grow to 300 once the testing centre is running at full capacity. Eventually the site will house around 500 testing rigs and digital test environments, up from almost 200 right now.

The Gothenburg site will work closely together with our other engineering centres around the globe that play a central role in software development. Last month, we established a new Tech Hub in Singapore, while we announced our plans for another software-focused Tech Hub in Krakow, Poland, in February.  

“Our growing ranks of software engineers work on a wide variety of exciting challenges,” said Alwin Bakkenes, our Global Head of Software Engineering. “The aim is to boost our innovation speed by developing software for key areas for Volvo Cars – from core safety technology based on our deep understanding of what causes accidents, to our perception and driver-assistance algorithms and software for future autonomous driving.” 

Other software engineering challenges include developing our next-generation connected features, and supporting all our development work through data analytics. We’re actively recruiting software engineers at our various locations around the globe. 

Apart from the sites in Krakow and Singapore, we operate Tech Hubs in Stockholm and Lund in Sweden, as well as in Bangalore in India. We also have large engineering centres in Shanghai, China, and Gothenburg, Sweden. While each of these locations has its own focus area, together they make up a crucial network of innovation centres strategically spread around the globe. 

(Bangkok, 6 October 2023) AAS Auto Service Co., Ltd. is the sole authorized importer and dealer of Bentley cars in Thailand. The 2024 Bentayga multi-purpose Bentley will feature new driver assistance features and cabin comfort technology for the   Standard Wheelbase model with the V8 and V6 hybrid engines, and an extended wheelbase model exclusive to the V8 engine.   Ready to enter the market of ultra-luxury SUVs that will provide both luxury and For the 2024 Bentley Bentayga, prices start at THB 13.7 million.

AAS is accepting orders for 12 2024 Bentley Bentayga   models with the following prices:

Standard Wheelbase The V6 hybrid engine includes:

(1)          Bentayga Hybrid Starting price:  13,700,000 Baht

(2)          Bentayga A Hybrid Starting price:  14,600,000 Baht

(3)          Bentayga S Hybrid Starting price:  15,100,000 Baht

(4)          Bentayga Azure Hybrid Starting price 16,000,000 Baht

Standard Wheelbase   The  V8 engine includes:

(5)          Bentayga V8 Starting price:  18,100,000 Baht

(6)          Bentayga A V8 Starting price:  19,100,000 Baht

(7)          Bentayga S V8 Starting price 21,500,000 Baht

(8)          Bentayga Azure V8 Starting price:  21,800,000 Baht

Extended Wheelbase models, the V8  engine includes:

(9)          Bentayga EWB V8 Starting price:  20,800,000 Baht

(10)        Bentayga EWB A V8 Starting price:  21,300,000 Baht

(11)        Bentayga EWB Azure V8 Starting price : 23,300,000 Baht

(12)        Bentayga EWB Mulliner V8 Starting price: THB 27,600,000

The 2024 Bentayga features a contemporary exterior and a variety of unique décor styles with an increased choice of exterior shades. 7 new satin shades and new 21-inch alloy wheels   The Bentayga EWB features a new steering system for both drivers and passengers with a new chassis technology, new features and electrical systems, and a redesigned grille. 4 wheels are used to improve handling and improve agility. In the 2024 Bentayga model, the system has been incorporated into the standard features of both the Bentayga  ‘Azure’ and ‘S’  models and as an optional addition to other variants.

The Airline Seat Specification with automatic temperature monitoring and posture adjustment technology is very popular with occupiers. Bentayga EWB, which from this positive feedback, Bentley. Therefore, the Airline Seat Specification has been adopted as an option in all standard wheelbase models of Bentayga.

The driver assistance feature in the 2024 model Bentayga has been developed with the installation of smart parking assist and remote parking assist.  3D surround view and emergency assistance In addition, there is an Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Further development of Bentley Safeguard

The new driver assistance system is displayed on the driver’s panel, which features three new variants, along with one unique to the Bentayga model.  3D object visualization with vehicle body and exterior lighting, and status of driver assistance features

Inside the cabin The air conditioning system has also been developed with a new system that can use particle sensors to monitor air quality inside and outside the cabin. It will be displayed on the infotainment screen and activated. Automatic ‘recirculation mode’ to prevent external pollution from entering the cabin The system automatically returns to fresh air mode and immediately shuts down when no rear passengers are detected to help reduce noise from the air flow to the rear and reduce energy consumption.

All standard cabin carpets are made from sustainable materials, with the new cabin carpets made from recycled nylon material. 100% to give you the same comfort and feel as previous carpets.

The separated cabin produces perfect sound from the latest audio equipment. ‘Bang & Olufsen for Bentley’ features the unique design of  the aluminium B&O speakers, decorated  with speaker holes in various sizes and angles in a  uniquely designed Fibonacci  pattern and elegantly mounted and decorated on each cabin door panel. The angled speaker holes are placed as tightly as possible for clear sound and to contrast the surface created with clear white-pearl shades.

The 2024 Bentayga EWB features a styling specification with a larger rear spoiler. It expands the roofline and improves aerodynamic stability while driving at speed. Both bumpers are complemented by carbon fiber, with splitters at the front and diffusers at the rear.

owner The 2024 Bentayga will also be able to create eight new exterior shades across all models, including Topaz blue-green, an intense blend of blue and green. This creates a shade of turquoise gemstone that shines. It enhances the variety of existing colours in over 112 shades.

In addition to standard and exclusive shades, Bentley Mulliner has selected new premium satin shades as an option of shades that give another matte finish.

Scotland’s North Coast 500 (68%) has been crowned the UK’s best drive by British motorists. The Coastal Way, Wales (50%) and The Jurassic Coast, from Poole to Lyme Regis (40%) add to the top five.

The study of 2,000 Brits conducted by car brand Dacia, has uncovered the ultimate UK road trips, with over nine in ten (96%) stating that the UK has the world’s best drives. The longlist was created by a panel of top travel experts which was then put to a public vote to identify the best UK autumnal road trips.

To celebrate the nation’s most desirable road trip locations, Dacia, the brand synonymous with the outdoors and for selling the perfect cars for adventures, is launching a limited-edition range of car air fresheners. Reinventing the ‘new car smell’ and transporting the public – through scent – from every errands to beautiful British landscapes, the brand has partnered with award-winning perfumer, 4160 Tuesdays. Together, they have captured the authentic scents of the most loved British road trips in all their sensual glory.

THE UK’S ULTIMATE AUTUMNAL ROAD TRIPS

1. The North Coast 500 route starting from Inverness, Scotland
2. The Coastal Way, Wales
3. The Jurassic Coast, from Poole to Lyme Regis
4. Cheddar Gorge through the Mendip Hills
5. Causeways Coastal Route, Belfast to Derry/Londonderry
6. Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District
7. The Cotswolds to Bath
8. Cat and Fiddle route (A53 then A54 followed by the A537) in the Peak District
9. Ribblehead Viaduct, North Yorkshire
10. Snowdonia’s Llanberis Pass, Wales

The research also revealed that Brits take on average three road trips each month, with 90% of Brits saying that driving across the UK’s most iconic roads tops their bucket list.

Dramatic landscapes, coastal beaches, and country roads make up the most important factors for Brits when planning a UK road trip.

37% of Brits say Autumn is the most beautiful time to explore Britain with changing foliage (53%), cooler weather (41%) and fewer tourists (33%) topping the list of reasons why. A whopping 94% of Brits say reminiscing on family road trips is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

Brits vote adulthood friends (58%), children (56%) and parents (54%) as best road trip companions. The ultimate road trip for Brits lasts four days with no more than three passengers.

60% of Brits love finding new places to explore, with a further 47% saying laughing with family and friends is the thing they enjoy most when on a road trip.

The perfumery, known for hand-making adventurous scents, used traditional and quirky methods to research and extract the essence of each individual location, looking to the lush landscapes, as well as Dacia’s iconic humour, for inspiration.

THE SCENTS INCLUDE:

• Scent-sational Highlands (North Coast 500, Scotland) – Scent of earth and sea with pine trees and wild raspberries, with subtle notes of haggis
• The Coastal Whiff (The Coastal Way, Wales) – Seashore aroma with extra added daffodils, and a faint undertone of brine
• The Jura-scent Coast (The Jurassic Coast, England) – Seashore plus ancient fossils and ice cream
• Eau de Gorge-ous (The Cheddar Gorge, England) – Moss, rocks, thyme, geranium and grass, with gentle hints of cheddar cheese

Sarah McCartney of 4160 Tuesdays said: “Scents are the perfect way to encapsulate the beauty of Britain. No matter where you are, the smell of these air fresheners will instantly transport Brits to the beautiful road trip locations our nation has to offer.”

Luke Broad, Dacia UK Brand Director, said: “The UK is the ultimate playground for adventurous motorists. There’s nothing quite like the refreshing aroma of the rolling hills, coastal wind and, er, cheese, to get you in the road trip mindset. Our custom range of air fresheners bring the essence of Great Britain’s favourite destinations right into your car. It’s Dacia’s take on the ‘new car smell’.” 

Dacia, the brand with outdoor spirit, aims to help Brits embark on unforgettable adventures, whether abroad or closer to home. By offering reliable vehicles perfectly suited for both short getaways and grand expeditions, Dacia is there to ensure every journey is filled with excitement and possibility.

Dacia. Makes scents.

DACIA’S FOUR PILLAR MODELS ARE STILL GROWING
Dacia Sandero sales totalled 199,516 vehicles, up 18,3% compared to the same period last year. Sandero maintains its position as the market leader for private vehicle sales in Europe since 2017*.

With 154,460 units sold, Dacia Duster grew by 4.1% compared to the same period in 2022. It holds onto its place in the top-three European private SUV sales*.

With 70,932 units sold in the first nine months of the year, Dacia Jogger recorded an increase of 76.1%. It is leading C-segment retail sales (excluding SUV)*.

With 44,262 vehicles sold, Spring is up 40.6% on the same period last year. It holds onto its place in the top-three European private electric vehicles sales*.

PROGRESS IN ALL MAJOR EUROPEAN MARKETS
In the European private vehicle market, Dacia grew 19.6% in a market that was up 16.9%.

Dacia’s market share for European private-vehicle sales reached 4.4%, +0.1 point compared to the same period (2022) despite an unfavourable channel-mix effect in the market.

For its historical core customer base in retail sales, Dacia remains in the European top-three with a market share of 8.4%*.

In France, Dacia’s largest market, the brand saw private and utility vehicle registrations reach 118,495 in the first nine months of 2023, an increase of 23.2% compared to 2022. With its private vehicle market share reaching 9.1%, up 0.5 points, Dacia held on to its 3rd place for private vehicle sales in France. In the retail sales market, Dacia is France’s leading brand. Sandero is the most-sold model to private individuals and the 3rd most-sold model across all channels.  Spring is the 2^nd most-sold electric vehicle in terms of both private and all-channel sales. Duster is the most sold SUV sold to individuals. Jogger is number one in C-segment retail sales.

In Italy, 66,160 private and utility vehicle units were sold in the first nine months of 2023, up 29.3%. The private vehicle market share increased by 0.3 points. In the consumer market, Dacia is still number one with a penetration of 9.3% and two models in the top 3: Sandero in second and Duster third.

In Germany, volumes totalled 51,703 units in private and utility vehicles, up 25.2% compared to the same period 2022. The private vehicle market share increased by 0.2 points. Dacia ranks 4th for retail sales with three models in the top 15. Sandero is the 3rd best-selling vehicle to private customers and Duster the 3rd best-selling SUV on the same channel.

Spain also recorded an increase of 23% with 34,624 private and utility vehicles sold in the first nine months 2023. The market share increased by 0.2 points. In terms of sales to private customers, Dacia is ranked 4th. Sandero leads both retail and all-channel sales for the first nine months of the year.

In Romania, the brand sold 36,069 private and utility vehicles, an increase of 29.2%. The private vehicle market share increased by 3.0 points compared to 2022. The retail market share reached 40.1%, up 4.6 points. Five Dacia models are in the top 5 of the private vehicle market. Four Dacia models are in the Top 5 of the retail sales market. Dacia is number one in retail sales. Each Dacia model is first in its respective segment.

MORE THAN 8 MILLION CUSTOMERS WON OVER BY DACIA
In 2023, Dacia exceeded the threshold of 8 million vehicles sold. The positioning and strategy of the Dacia brand continue to win over customers.

The Extreme trim, introduced in early 2023, has been a great success and now accounts for a third of customer orders.

The UP&GO offer meets the needs of Dacia customers. You can buy a new vehicle with plenty of equipment (UP) and fast delivery (GO). An offer already chosen by more than 100,000 customers.

Xavier Martinet, SVP Dacia Marketing, Sales and Operations said: “The Dacia success story continues with volumes up 16.7% over the first nine months of 2023. With its strategy of constantly redefining the essential while offering the best price for service ratio, Dacia has won over more than 8 million customers since 2004 and shores up its position as Europe’s second-best retail seller. We greatly appreciate the trust our customers bestow upon us.”

Global volumes nine months of 2023 (private + utility):

*Results as of end of August 2023 / Results for end of September not available. Retail private vehicles in Europe = Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom

Luca de Meo, Renault Group CEO, has been awarded the top spot in Autocar’s Power List 100. The list – first introduced in 2022 – celebrates the most influential and successful people within the global automotive industry.

Appointed in 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, De Meo set to work in creating a thorough transformation strategy spanning all Renault Group brands. This highly ambitious plan was titled the ‘Renaulution’.

In just three years, De Meo’s ‘Renaulution’ has already resulted in a massive change in the company’s fortunes. The company returned to profit in 2021, before doubling it to 2.6 billion euros in 2022 with a margin of 5.6%. Then, in the first half of 2023 the company broke its all-time margin record of 7% with a 7.6% result on profits of 2.12 billion euros.

Mark Tisshaw, editor of Autocar, said: “Luca de Meo’s improbable climb to the top of this chart is testament to the extraordinary turnaround he has achieved at Renault Group. When the Italian joined in 2020, the French company had fallen into the one of the deepest financial holes ever faced by a global automotive company. The pandemic had abruptly turned off the cash tap and exposed all kinds of problems in a company still suffering from its previous dash-for-volume approach.

“He ripped up Renault’s product plan on day one of the job after being shown too many low-margin small cars in the design studio and shifted the launch focus to more profitable segments to underpin the company while allowing the smaller cars to remain, both at Renault and Dacia. Meanwhile, he has also taken a more pragmatic approach to the Alliance with Nissan, including realigning the shareholding between Renault and its Japanese partner.

“De Meo’s competent demeanour, steely business approach, unrivalled networking ability and smartly applied experience has given Renault the ability to not just survive but strongly compete in a fast-changing market.”

Luca de Meo, Renault Group CEO, added: “I am immensely honored by this award. It recognizes the titanic work done by the Renault Group team over the last three years, transforming in-depth this great company to put it back where it deserves, at the forefront of innovation. Actually, all this is much more than a classical turnaround. Beyond structurally restoring the Group’s financials and preparing its best line-up in three decades, we are turning Renault into a new kind of car company: ready for the future, more horizontal, partnering with the best to cover an  incredibly broader, more diverse and volatile value chain than in the last 150 years; focusing dedicated and agile teams on EV and software, circular economy, distinctive sportscars, new mobility, and ICE cars. Few people would have bet that the Renault Group would be able to get there in only three years. We keep humble and focused because the challenges ahead are very tough, but we also know that we have put ourselves in the condition to lead the new automotive game that is emerging. Count on us to keep surprising you in the coming months and years!”

Zapmap, the UK’s leading e-mobility service provider and charge point data platform, has launched a new API product suite to support organisations across the UK in their transition to electric vehicles (EV).

The new offering, Zapmap Spark, enables companies of all shapes and sizes to provide a suite of EV-centric features within their own digital estate, through a single integration.

By integrating with Zapmap Spark, businesses will gain access to Zapmap’s unique dataset. This means partners will be able to provide their app users with data access to over 95% of UK public charging points, the vast majority of which display live availability status on a 24/7 basis.

In addition to charge point data, the Spark platform also offers companies the ability to provide both EV route planning and cross-network digital payments in their own app – ensuring a seamless, end-to-end customer experience for the increasing numbers of electric car drivers they will be serving.

Richard Bourne, CEO at Zapmap, said:
“I’m delighted to announce the launch of Zapmap Spark today. This brand new offering from Zapmap means that third-party digital platforms and apps can now provide market-leading EV services through a simple integration.

“Zapmap was founded in 2014 with a mission to make EV charging simple, wherever you go. With the UK’s shift to electric vehicles well underway, and the needs of EV drivers evolving, it’s up to industry leaders like Zapmap to respond to what drivers really need as the market grows.

“This is why we came to develop Zapmap Spark, which is all about making it easier for organisations to offer their customers a robust set of tools for electric vehicle drivers – all from within their own digital estate.”

The comprehensive and robust in-app capabilities from Zapmap Spark are accessed via a suite of APIs: the Search API, Plan API and Pay API respectively. These capabilities include showing charge point locations across the country, EV route planning, and digital payments for charging sessions. Indeed, a number of companies are soon to experience the benefits of integrating with Zapmap Spark, with more announcements and integrations with Zapmap’s latest offering expected over the coming weeks and months.

In terms of payment, charging costs will generally be added to a customer’s account with the respective company, and will not require any customer payment details. This innovative feature eliminates the need for multiple accounts or payment methods, simplifying the billing process and making EV driving more accessible than ever.

Harrison Brook, Head of Partnerships at Zapmap, said:
„By combining Zapmap’s industry-leading platform with the extensive networks and commitment of other organisations across the UK, we’re not only enhancing the charging experience for drivers, but also fostering a stronger EV community.

„Launching Zapmap Spark is a clear example of our ambition to foster a seamless public charging experience for electric car drivers, whether it be in our app, or our partners’ digital products.”

An integral part of supporting the wider shift to electric transportation, Zapmap Spark enables third-party digital platforms and apps to provide market-leading EV services through a simple integration, in doing so supporting organisations in the UK and beyond in their transition to electric vehicles.