Which Citroën Models Qualify for the New UK Electric Car Grant?
If you’ve been eyeing an electric car but hesitated because of the price, there’s some genuinely good news. The UK government has just rolled out its new Electric Car Grant (ECG), and six Citroën models are among the first to qualify for a £1500 discount. That’s not just a headline—it’s a real, automatic saving that could make EV ownership much more accessible for thousands of drivers.
So, which Citroëns are eligible? Here’s the list: the ë-C3, ë-C3 Aircross, ë-C4, ë-C4 X, ë-Berlingo, and the new ë-C5 Aircross. These aren’t just niche models, either—they cover everything from compact city cars to family-friendly SUVs and MPVs. That means there’s likely something for everyone, whether you’re commuting solo or hauling kids and gear.
How Much Will You Actually Save on Each Model?
Let’s get down to brass tacks. With the ECG applied, the starting price for the Citroën ë-C3 drops to £20,595. That’s a significant cut, especially when you compare it to rivals like the Fiat Grande Panda Elettrica (£21,035) and the BYD Dolphin Surf Boost (£21,950). In fact, only a handful of models—like the smaller-battery BYD Dolphin Surf Active (£18,650), Hyundai Inster (£19,755), and the Leapmotor T03 (£14,495)—come in cheaper, and some of those have notable compromises, like reduced range.
Here’s how the new starting prices shake out for each eligible Citroën:
– ë-C3: £20,595
– ë-C3 Aircross: £21,595
– ë-C4: £26,150
– ë-C4 X: £27,215
– ë-Berlingo: £29,740
– ë-C5 Aircross: £32,565
For families or anyone needing more space, the ë-Berlingo and ë-C5 Aircross are especially compelling now that they’re more affordable.
What Makes the New Grant Different From Past Incentives?
If you remember the old Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG), you might be wondering what’s changed. The biggest difference is convenience: buyers no longer have to register or fill out extra paperwork. The ECG is automatically applied at the point of sale, so you see the discount right away—no hoops to jump through.
Another key update is how eligibility is determined. It’s not just about the sticker price or whether a car is electric. Manufacturers must meet strict, science-backed emissions targets, and only models with a starting price below £37,000 in their entry-level trim qualify. The government is also factoring in the environmental impact of production—specifically, the CO2 emitted during manufacturing and the energy used in both vehicle assembly and battery creation. This is a more holistic approach, aiming to reward not just clean driving, but cleaner manufacturing too.
Why Are Only Certain Brands and Models Eligible Right Now?
You might notice that all six of the first qualifying models are from Citroën, a French manufacturer. That’s not a coincidence. The grant’s criteria—especially the emphasis on low production emissions—mean that some vehicles, particularly those produced in regions with less stringent environmental standards, may not make the cut. While any manufacturer can apply, it’s expected that many Asian-made models won’t be eligible, at least under the current rules.
Interestingly, this has led some brands to launch their own discounts to stay competitive. Hyundai and Leapmotor, for example, have introduced price cuts on the Inster and T03, respectively, to match the government-backed savings.
How Does the Grant Impact the Broader EV Market?
This isn’t just about Citroën or even about saving a few thousand pounds. The ECG is backed by £650 million in taxpayer funding, signaling the government’s commitment to accelerating EV adoption. According to the UK Department for Transport, this move is expected to help thousands more people make the switch to electric vehicles this summer.
Industry experts see this as a smart way to stimulate demand, especially as the EV market faces headwinds from inflation and supply chain disruptions. By targeting models that are both affordable and environmentally responsible, the grant could help shift the market toward cleaner, more sustainable options.
Are There Any Concerns or Potential Pitfalls?
No government scheme is perfect, and the ECG is already drawing some scrutiny. There are concerns about potential loopholes—such as manufacturers self-registering vehicles to claim the grant. While the government says it’s monitoring for abuse, it’s something to keep an eye on as more models become eligible.
Another open question is the exact threshold for environmental impact. The government hasn’t yet published the specific CO2 and energy use limits that determine whether a model gets the £1500 or the higher £3750 grant. This lack of transparency could create confusion for both buyers and manufacturers in the short term.
What Should You Do If You’re Considering an Electric Car?
If you’ve been on the fence about going electric, now’s a great time to revisit your options. With the ECG in place, several Citroën models have become some of the most affordable EVs on the UK market—without sacrificing range or practicality. And with more brands expected to join the scheme soon, the choices are only going to get better.
The bottom line? The new Electric Car Grant is making EVs more accessible than ever, especially for everyday drivers who need a reliable, affordable way to go green. If you’re ready to make the switch, keep an eye on the evolving list of eligible models—and don’t be afraid to ask your dealer about the latest deals and incentives. The landscape is changing fast, and those who act early could reap the biggest rewards.