New Citroen e-Berlingo 100% electric MPV unveiled

KUALA LUMPUR: Like many automakers both high-end and mass market, Citroen is also expanding its electric vehicle lineup. The automaker has introduced a new 100 percent electric MPV called the e-Berlingo that is capable of going up to 280 km. It is a step forward in the direction to provide an electrified variant across the model lineup by 2025. Many aren't aware that the e-Berlingo is the latest electric version of the multi-award-winning MPV that was first introduced in 1996.

The new Citroen is offered in two versions (based on the length) - Medium (4,400 mm) and XL (4,750 mm) and depending on the trim it can seat up to seven individuals. Its versatile and practical cabin space makes it ideal for both business and family use.

Powering the Citroen e-Berlingo is a 100kW electric motor that's connected to a 50kWh battery. It churns out a peak torque of 260 Nm. Also, the new model features three drive modes - Eco, Power, and Normal that are easily accessible to the driver via a special e-Toggle control.

As mentioned, Citroen's latest MPV offers a staggering range of 280 km. However, its regenerative braking system allows optimizing the range further by recovering energy during deceleration and braking.

Citroen Product and Strategy Director, Laurence Hanse said, “The electrification of Berlingo responds to two issues, offering sufficient range and making no compromises on practicality so that our customers can enjoy their activities in all their diversity. New ë-Berlingo brings them an extra dose of serenity in their everyday lives with a seamless and silent drive, the satisfaction of preserving air quality, and a controlled motoring budget."

He further added, "These are strong expectations of this type of customer and highly strategic in this segment, as high-volume body types are particularly limited in terms of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. We are proud that Berlingo, the first leisure activity vehicle, ranks among the first to offer this alternative.”

Key highlights of the e-Berlingo MPV -

• Optimum storage space - 167-litre and 26 storage compartments
• 8-inch touchscreen with 'Energy' section
• 10-inch HD digital instrument panel highlighting energy-flow information, navigation system

On the safety front, the e-Berlingo MPV features 18 driver assistance technology (depending on the version) which includes Hill-start assist, park assist, electric parking brake, keyless entry & start, reversing camera with top rear vision, intelligent beam headlight, cruise control & speed limiter, colour head-up display. Also, part of the kit is an active lane departure warning system, Coffee Break Alert, driver attention alert, Grip Control, distance alert, blind-spot monitoring system, extended traffic sign recognition and recommendation, and Grip Control with Hill Descent Assist.

Overall, the e-Berlingo MPV is fully equipped to enhance and support an active lifestyle. It will first arrive in the UK market by quarter four of 2021.

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