Citroen has revealed ELO, an all-new concept car that reimagines what compact, practical, and sustainable mobility can look like in the coming years. The Citroen Elo Concept takes inspiration from the ideas introduced with the 2022 OLI but evolves them into a more flexible, human-focused vision suited for modern cities. Scheduled for its global premiere at the Brussels Motor Show on January 9, the concept highlights how a small electric vehicle can still offer versatility, comfort, and smart usability.
The car measures just 4.10 metres in length—shorter than many hatchbacks—yet is designed to accommodate up to six passengers. This bold approach showcases Citroen’s commitment to making urban mobility more efficient without compromising the quality of the passenger experience. The Citroen Elo Concept aims to prove that compact EVs can feel spacious, engaging, and adaptable to everyday needs.
Compact Design and Smart Packaging in the Citroen Elo Concept
The Citroen Elo Concept uses a dedicated electric platform designed to maximise interior space while maintaining a compact footprint. Its design philosophy revolves around doing more with less, offering clever solutions that respond to the practical demands of urban families and individuals.
Key design elements include:
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- A standard four-seat layout for everyday commuting
- Two fold-out seats that allow seating for up to six
- A driver’s seat positioned centrally for a panoramic 180-degree view
- A 360-degree rotating driver’s seat that transforms the cabin into a lounge or workspace
This flexible seating arrangement allows the vehicle to shift roles within minutes, supporting mobility, social interaction, or productivity depending on the moment. The Citroen Elo Concept embodies adaptability at its core.
Interior Modularity and Lifestyle Innovation
Inside, the Citroen Elo Concept reflects the growing trend of multipurpose living spaces. Inspired by tiny homes and modular furniture, the cabin is crafted to offer functionality well beyond typical vehicle interiors. Citroen has collaborated with Decathlon to bring advanced, outdoor-ready materials that support usability and comfort.
Interior innovations include:
- A sleeping setup for two using inflatable mattresses crafted from Dropstitch material
- Quick transitions between lounge, entertainment, office, and mobility modes
- A rotating seating layout that promotes social interaction
- Floating visual displays projected onto a reflective film for an uncluttered dashboard
The overall aim is to create a serene, flexible environment that adapts to the user’s daily routine. Whether parked or moving, the Citroen Elo Concept doubles as a comfortable extension of home and workspace.
Technology and Intelligent Features
Innovation is central to the Citroen Elo Concept, particularly in the way digital interfaces and electric capabilities support modern lifestyles. Building on the “Smartband” idea from the 2022 OLI, Citroen has introduced a new transparent display system that projects essential information onto a specially treated film inside the windscreen. This creates a floating-screen effect that is easy to read and cost-efficient compared to traditional HUDs.
Additional technological highlights include:
- Underfloor air compressor for inflating tyres or sports equipment
- Vehicle-to-load capabilities that let users power external appliances like speakers, grills, or camping gear
- Goodyear Eagle Xplore tyres equipped with SightLine tech for real-time pressure and wear monitoring
- Door-mounted hooks that allow quick attachment of awnings for outdoor shade
These additions turn the Citroen Elo Concept into a versatile companion for both city use and leisure activities.
Heritage-Inspired Design and User-Friendly Controls
Citroen’s history of bold and unconventional design continues with the Citroen Elo Concept. A notable feature is the modern reinterpretation of the classic single-spoke steering wheel first seen on the 1955 DS. The new design features a double-flat structure that improves visibility while remaining comfortable to hold.
Highlights of the steering and control area:
- A wide, unobstructed view of digital instruments
- Two joystick-style controls for intuitive access to vehicle systems
- A calming, minimalist cabin that reduces visual clutter
This layout promotes ease of use and reinforces Citroen’s mission to create peaceful, user-aware interiors that enhance daily driving.
Outdoor Utility and Everyday Practicality of the Citroen Elo Concept
Beyond technology and comfort, the Citroen Elo Concept embraces its identity as a “tiny house on wheels.” Citroen has focused on adding outdoor-friendly features that make the vehicle suitable for activities like camping, road trips, weekend excursions, and urban errands.
Practical touches include:
- Power outlets for outdoor equipment
- Awnings attachable through door hooks for instant sheltered space
- Durable materials inspired by outdoor gear
- Storage solutions designed for mobility and leisure
The goal is to give users more reasons to step outside while still enjoying the comforts provided by a modern electric vehicle.
Final Verdict
The Citroen Elo Concept represents a refreshing and imaginative direction for the future of urban mobility. Its combination of compact size, adaptable interior, sustainable materials, and lifestyle-focused technology creates a new blueprint for multi-purpose electric vehicles. Citroen’s partnerships with Goodyear and Decathlon enhance the concept’s practicality, while its clever packaging redefines what users can expect from small EVs. If the Elo influences future production models, Citroen could set a new benchmark for smart, user-centric electric mobility.
