A MAJOR car brand has unveiled its next two EVs, featuring some clever pothole-proof tech.
The manufacturer has taken pains to address some of the long-running criticisms of electric cars with some handy extras.
Citroen has shown off the next generations of the C4 and C4 X to carry them into the electric age.
Dating back to 2004 respectively, the model has long been a fan favourite in the French firm’s lineup.
The latest releases feature a choice of a 135 or 154-horsepower motor, linked to a chunky 50-54 kWh battery.
The power pack provides a very decent range of up to 260 miles and is compatible with 100kWh rapid charging.
This allows it to slash waiting times at charging stations – a common EV owner gripe – with the ability to recover to 80% within 30 minutes.
Drivers can also opt for hybrid or petrol versions of each which could be the last to feature internal combustion engines before the ban on new petrol and diesel cars in 2035.
All come with boosted hydraulic cushioning to improve ride quality and prevent damage from potholes.
That’s particularly useful in the UK market, since road craters are at their highest rate on record.
Citroen has also expanded the number of colour options, tweaked the front end of both models and added its retro-styled new logo.
Inside, the C4 now boasts a cabin that’s “alive with technology“, with more than 20 driver assistance features.
These include a 360-degree camera for easier parking and the ‘Hello Citroen’ voice assistant.
Passengers will also benefit from the lengthened wheel base and thickened seat cushions for extra comfort.
However, some of the changes have left fans a little more confused, with the manufacturer changing the names of several functions without much apparent reason.
For example, the autonomous emergency braking system has become the “active safety brake” and the forward collision warning beeper is now the ‘collision risk alert’.
Pricing is yet to be confirmed with all three trim levels expected to be available from next year.
A Citroen spokesperson said: “Within a year, Citroën has renewed its range of commercial vehicles, upgraded the Berlingo and the SpaceTourer, changed the face of the B segment with the New C3 and New C3 Aircross, and is preparing to relaunch two major models in the C segment.
“Today, the C4 and C4 X are undergoing significant changes, gaining in maturity and character while building on their historic strengths such as comfort and space on board.
“They retain their unique identities in their respective segments – underpinned by a concept that combines several automotive universes – while at the same time changing their attitude with greater fluidity, balance and homogeneity.”
