The prospect of importing the Citroen e-SpaceTourer to India has piqued my curiosity ever since Citroen announced that they’re evaluating this roomy electric people-mover for launch in our market. Combining spaciousness, efficiency, and the recent cut in customs duties, the e-SpaceTourer presents a compelling case in a segment ready for disruption.
The Electric MPV That Puts Space and Comfort First
The e-SpaceTourer stretches just over five meters on the long-wheelbase version, offering a cavernous cabin designed to carry up to nine people in comfort. It’s the kind of space we don’t typically associate with electric vehicles in India especially in the luxury MPV bracket. With captain chairs in the third row and even swiveling trays in some configurations, it promises genuine practicality and comfort for passengers. On the technical side, Citroen plans to bring the variant equipped with a 75 kWh battery, which delivers an impressive WLTP-rated range of up to 348 km far more suitable for Indian usage patterns than the smaller 49 kWh alternative.
Get Ready for Lower Prices as Tariff Cuts Kick In
What makes the Citroen e-SpaceTourer India launch proposition even more exciting is India’s recent overhaul of import duties. Basic customs duty on transport vehicles has been reduced from 40% down to 20% accompanied by a lowered surcharge through the Agriculture Infrastructure Development Cess. This opens up the possibility of a more attractive pricing strategy for full-import models like the e-SpaceTourer, especially if tie-ups or free trade agreements mature favorably.
Growing Trend Everyone’s Talking About
India’s premium MPV segment is on the rise. In just one year, Toyota Vellfire sold over 1,100 units and Lexus LM continues to enjoy demand among ultra-luxury buyers. Meanwhile, even the more affordable Kia Carnival sold nearly 1,000 units in the first half of the year showing there’s a growing appetite for well-appointed people movers. With players like BYD eMax 7 and MG M9 poised to enter the electric space, the e-SpaceTourer could slot neatly between them, especially if priced right.
What Really Matters Range, Charging, and Everyday Usability
Despite its promises, the e-SpaceTourer isn’t without challenges. Reviews from Europe using the 50 kWh battery variant report a real-world range closer to 115-120 miles (around 185-195 km). In colder conditions or highway use, that number can drop further to under 100 miles (160 km). However, on urban and congested routes, the van’s regenerative braking and instant torque could mean more usable range than expected. Thankfully, charging technology helps mitigate this. Supported 100 kW DC fast charging allows an 80 % charge in about 30-45 minutes, depending on battery size. And paired with a home wallbox setup, overnight charging becomes simple and practical.
Bringing the Citroen e-SpaceTourer to India could unlock a unique electric offering in an under-served niche. Its cavernous cabin, MPV versatility, and supportive pricing environment, thanks to tariff shifts equip it with potential to carve out a space between established ICE models and upcoming EVs.