The Tata Tiago EV and Citroen eC3 stand out as the most affordable four-door electric hatchbacks in the market, fitting comfortably within a Rs 12 lakh budget. While the MG Comet is slightly more affordable, its two-door configuration limits its versatility, making the Tiago EV and eC3 more practical choices. This comparison focuses on which of these EVs offers a higher real-world range, quicker charging, and better efficiency.
Powertrain, Battery, and Specifications
Citroen eC3
- Motor: 57 hp, 143 Nm torque
- Battery: 29.2 kWh
- Claimed Range: 320 km
- Kerb Weight: 1316 kg
Tata Tiago EV
- Motor: 74 hp, 114 Nm torque (with 24 kWh battery) or 61 hp, 110 Nm torque (with 19.2 kWh battery)
- Battery: 24 kWh (for this test)
- Claimed Range: 315 km
- Kerb Weight: 1150 kg
The Citroen eC3, with its larger size and battery, is 166 kg heavier than the Tata Tiago EV. Both vehicles are equipped with regenerative braking, although the Tiago EV offers four levels of adjustment compared to the fixed level on the eC3.
Real-World Range and Charging
In our test, both cars were driven under similar conditions with periodic driver swaps. Despite the Citroen eC3 having a claimed higher range, both cars achieved an efficiency of 7.8 km/kWh. However, the real-world range differed:
- Citroen eC3: 228 km
- Tata Tiago EV: 187 km
At the end of the test, the Citroen eC3 had 35% battery remaining, while the Tata Tiago EV had 21%.
Charging Comparison
When plugged into a 30 kW DC fast charger:
- Tata Tiago EV: Charged to 100% in 87 minutes, consuming 19.36 kWh
- Citroen eC3: Charged to 100% in 94 minutes, consuming 19.78 kWh
The Tiago EV’s liquid-cooled battery enabled it to charge faster than the eC3’s air-cooled battery.
Range and Efficiency Summary
| Vehicle | Battery | Power/Torque | Kerb Weight | Claimed Range | Tested Range | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Citroen eC3 | 29.2 kWh | 57 hp/143 Nm | 1316 kg | 320 km | 228 km | 7.8 km/kWh |
| Tata Tiago EV | 24 kWh | 74 hp/114 Nm | 1150 kg | 315 km | 187 km | 7.77 km/kWh |
Charging Options
Both cars come with a portable charging cable suitable for a 15-amp socket. Tata offers additional charging convenience with a 3.3 kW AC wallbox charger as standard, and an optional 7.2 kW AC fast charger for an extra Rs 50,000. Citroen does not provide an AC wallbox charging option.
Price Comparison
- Tata Tiago EV: Rs 7.99 lakh – 11.89 lakh
- Citroen eC3: Rs 11.61 lakh – 13.41 lakh
The Citroen eC3, while more expensive, offers a longer range and a more spacious interior. However, the Tata Tiago EV stands out as the better overall package with more features, livelier performance, and greater value for money.
In conclusion, while the Citroen eC3 provides more range, the Tata Tiago EV is the superior choice for those seeking a well-rounded, feature-rich electric hatchback within a budget.
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