CITROEN ELO: MPV With Central Driving Position For “Rest, Work & Play”

The 2026 Citroën ELO is a 4.1m compact electric MPV featuring a central driving position and seating for up to six.

Its modular “REST, PLAY, WORK” interior includes a 360° rotating driver’s seat, removable rear chairs for outdoor use, and a Smartband projection display. Developed with Decathlon and Goodyear, it prioritizes sustainable materials and urban utility.

Offering a projected range of up to 420 km and innovative V2L capabilities to power external devices.

1. Body Style and Segment

The ELO is a compact MPV with a “one-box” profile designed for urban practicality. It measures exactly 4.10 meters (13.5 feet) in length, comparable to a small hatchback like the ë-C3, yet utilizes a long wheelbase and short overhangs to maximize interior volume.

2. Platform, Range, and Performance

Built on a dedicated battery-electric architecture, the ELO is a 100% electric model. While Citroën has not finalized production performance, the platform is expected to utilize a high-voltage system (likely 400V) similar to recent Stellantis models. Based on its urban mission, it targets a range of approximately 320–420 km (199–260 miles) WLTP. Acceleration is tuned for city nippi-ness, with an estimated 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time of roughly 8 to 10 seconds.

3. Technical Capabilities

The ELO features a revolutionary central driving position for 180° visibility. Technical highlights include:

Smartband Display: A transparent film across the lower windshield that projects floating driver data.
Goodyear Smart Tyres: LEDs on the wheels glow green when pressure is correct and red when low.
V2L (Vehicle-to-Load): Supports external discharge to power work tools or leisure equipment.

4. Interior and Storage

The “C-Zen Lounge” interior emphasizes sustainability and modularity.

Quality: Uses technical, durable materials developed with Decathlon, featuring a minimalist, bright aesthetic.
Storage: The cabin is designed to hold up to six people despite its small size. Rear seats are removable for outdoor use as chairs. While specific liter figures for a front trunk (frunk) are unconfirmed, the flat floor provides extensive “oddment” storage throughout the cabin.

5. App Functionality

Integrated via Citroën’s latest digital ecosystem, the ELO app allows users to:

Configure Scenarios: Remotely prepare the cabin for “Work” (rotating the seat) or “Rest” (adjusting lighting).
Digital Key: Share vehicle access with family or colleagues for urban car-sharing.

6. Pros and Cons

Pros:

Exceptional Modularity: Transforms into an office, cinema, or bedroom.
Urban Efficiency: Tiny 4.1m footprint makes it effortless to park in cities.
Sustainable Design: Focuses on recycled materials and reduced manufacturing complexity.

Cons:

Niche Appeal: The central seating and “van-like” profile may not suit traditional buyers.
Limited High-Speed Range: Boxy aerodynamics are less efficient for long motorway trips.
Concept Complexity: Some features, like the 360° rotating seat, may be simplified for production.

7. Overall Summary

The 2026 Citroën ELO is a spiritual successor to the C3 Picasso, but reimagined for the electric age. Compared to competitors like the VW ID.3 or Renault Megane E-Tech, the ELO sacrifices traditional “car” styling for superior interior flexibility and social space. It is a “living space” on wheels, prioritizing functionality for young urbanites over raw performance.