Citroën C3: LPG Kit offered in India

As Citroën continues to develop its presence in the Indian market, the brand is consistently adapting its offerings to local specificities. The latest initiative involves the C3, a strategic model for the manufacturer in this region, which is now available with an anticipated alternative fuel option: GPL. This new possibility, offered as a certified retrofit kit, enhances the C3's appeal by providing a more economical mobility solution in terms of running costs and aligning with the country's energy trends. The installation of this kit is handled directly within the Citroën dealership network, ensuring professional and warranted integration. This proactive approach allows the brand with the double chevrons to diversify the powertrain options for the C3, complementing the existing petrol and electric versions, in order to better meet a wider range of needs and preferences of Indian consumers, for whom operating cost is a crucial factor.

A certified CNG kit for the C3 and its 1.2L engine

The arrival of this CNG kit marks a significant step for the Citroën C3 in India. It is not a version assembled directly in the factory with this powertrain but a certified retrofit program offered by Citroën. This means that customers opting for a C3 equipped with the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 82 horsepower can choose to have this CNG kit, specifically designed and tested for this engine block, installed. Citroën states that this 1.2-litre engine was "specifically designed" to harness the potential of CNG, indicating technical compatibility considered from the outset. While the CNG option is exclusively associated with the 82hp engine, it is available across several trim levels of the C3 range equipped with this powertrain, including the Live, Feel, Feel(O), and Shine versions. This availability across different C3 variants allows the brand to target a large portion of the potential customer base interested in the advantages of CNG. By offering this alternative to petrol and electric powertrains, Citroën strengthens the versatility of its compact car and its ability to adapt to different market expectations, particularly regarding reduced operating costs and contained emissions, which are increasingly pressing issues in India.

Kit characteristics, installation, and cost

This certified CNG kit by Citroën for the C3 has been designed for the most seamless integration possible for the user. Installation is exclusively carried out at dealerships authorized by the brand as part of the retrofit program. This process guarantees that the installation is performed according to the quality and safety standards defined by Citroën, thus ensuring the system's reliability. From a technical perspective, the system promises remarkable fuel efficiency, announced at up to 28.1 km per kilogram of CNG, which translates into a very competitive running cost of approximately 2.66 Indian Rupees per kilometer. To put this into perspective, the cost of the kit itself amounts to 93,000 Indian Rupees. As an indication, based on current exchange rates, this represents a cost of approximately €1,025 for this conversion (this amount may vary slightly depending on currency fluctuations). The total cost of a C3 equipped with this kit is mentioned starting from 7.16 lakh Indian Rupees, which corresponds to the price of a specific version including the cost of the vehicle and the kit.

Citroën engineers have also paid particular attention to preserving driving quality and practicality. The integration of the CNG tank has been carried out in such a way as not to significantly alter the boot volume and to maintain easy access to the spare wheel, a crucial point in many markets. The refueling system is designed for ease of use, with the CNG filler nozzle fitting directly into the petrol filler opening. To compensate for the additional weight of the CNG system and to maintain the characteristic comfort and handling of the C3, modifications have been made to the suspension: the rear dampers have been redesigned, the suspension springs reinforced, and an anti-roll bar has been added. To reassure customers, Citroën offers a comprehensive warranty covering both the vehicle and the specific CNG components for a period of three years or 100,000 kilometers, demonstrating the brand's confidence in the reliability of this solution.

Despite initial steps that could be described as cautious in the Indian market, where competition is fierce and historical players are firmly established, Citroën continues to demonstrate its willingness to move forward and adapt its offerings. The introduction of this CNG kit for the C3 is a concrete and positive illustration of this. By now offering petrol, electric (with the ë-C3), and CNG powertrains on its key model, the brand manages to build a set of diversified and relevant energy solutions, designed to meet the varied needs and economic constraints of Indian consumers. CNG represents an increasingly popular alternative in India, supported by significant development of the distribution infrastructure across the country. Forecasts indicate a major expansion of the CNG station network, with a target of over 7,400 refueling points by fiscal year 2025. This market dynamic offers Citroën a strategic growth opportunity. By providing a certified and integrated CNG option through its network, Citroën is favorably positioned to capitalize on this trend and potentially increase its market share by addressing customers sensitive to running costs and environmental considerations. This move highlights the brand's commitment to offering "accessible, economical, and environmentally friendly" mobility solutions, as emphasized by Kumar Priyesh, Head of Sales and Marketing at Stellantis India. It is an encouraging signal that shows Citroën adjusting its strategy to better navigate this complex yet high-potential market.