Citroen has unveiled its ELO concept car, hinting at plans for a super-compact all-electric MPV that packs six seats into a tiny 4.1-meter footprint.
The concept’s name comes from the second letters of rest, play and work. According to Citroen CEO Xavier Chardon, the striking electric vehicle “explores a new path that responds optimistically and ingeniously to contemporary challenges.”
Maximizing Space in a Compact Package
The ELO measures just 4.1 meters long – roughly the same size as Citroen’s current E-C3. But the company claims it’ll seat up to six passengers while doubling as a mobile office, cinema room and sleeping quarters for two people.
Citroen says the ELO’s ratio of exterior dimension to interior space is “unbeatable.”
The concept features an unusual central driving position ahead of a permanent three-seat rear row. When parked, the driver’s seat swivels to face the back passengers. Two additional seats can mount beside and slightly behind the driver position to create full six-seat capacity.
Those extra seats tuck beneath the outer rear seats when not needed. The rear seats can also be removed and used as outdoor furniture – a nod to the original 2CV design – as part of the ELO’s “base camp” concept for outdoor activities.
Camping and Office Features
Two inflatable mattresses fold into special boot compartments for off-grid overnight stays. Vehicle-to-load capability powers camping appliances, while the exterior light units double as impromptu dining tables.
Decathlon partnered with Citroen on the durable mattress fabric and seat upholstery as part of the ELO’s focus on “play.” The sports retailer’s input extends to an onboard compressor for paddleboards, smart storage areas and mounting points for an exterior awning.
For mobile office use, the ELO includes a clip-in tablet for the driver’s seat that acts as a desk. The “Smartband” instrument panel switches to display video calls, calendars and other business applications.
Pull-out trays on either side of the driving position provide desk space for phones, headsets and office equipment.
The Smartband screen stretches across the car’s width beneath the dashboard, creating a “floating” information display. Citroen says this approach costs less to develop and produce than traditional head-up displays.
Sustainable Design Approach
Keeping costs and environmental impact down, the ELO uses recycled materials throughout and features interchangeable panels for components like the front and rear bumpers.
“ELO is a new step in an exceptional period for Citroën, marked by the complete renewal of the range in two years,” said Chardon. “ELO is a laboratory of ideas that perfectly embodies Citroën’s values and opens up perspectives on what drives our thinking today. It is totally in tune with the times and offers concrete, innovative solutions to promote freedom of movement and a better life.”
The CEO added that the concept’s style expresses “friendliness and joie de vivre” while its modular interior functions as “a living space in its own right.”
Production Possibilities
The ELO follows 2023’s Citroen OLI concept, which eventually reached production as the E-C3 and E-C3 Aircross models. This track record suggests a production model inspired by ELO could arrive in coming years.
Such a vehicle would mark Citroen’s return to true MPVs. The French brand helped pioneer the segment before abandoning it for SUVs like the E-C5 Aircross.
The concept addresses growing concerns over vehicle size increases by proving that compact dimensions don’t have to mean compromised functionality or passenger capacity.
