Source: Citroën

Citroën has released official images of its ELO concept vehicle, an all-electric compact MPV that will make its public debut at the Brussels Motor Show on January 9, 2026. The company positions the ELO as a design and engineering testbed for future Citroën models, centered on flexible space usage and multi-scenario cabin functionality.

The ELO concept is built on a dedicated battery-electric architecture and measures 4.1 meters (13.5 feet) in length, placing it in the compact MPV segment. Citroën said the vehicle is designed to accommodate up to six occupants despite its small footprint, using a long wheelbase and short overhang proportions to prioritize interior volume.

Source: Citroën

Citroën describes the ELO name as a reference to three use cases—REST, PLAY, and WORK—which guide the vehicle’s interior and packaging strategy. While the automaker has not confirmed production plans, it said the concepts demonstrated on ELO are intended for future road-going models. Some industry observers have suggested a production derivative could succeed the discontinued C3 Picasso, though this has not been confirmed.

Externally, the ELO adopts a one-box MPV profile with an enclosed front fascia consistent with electric vehicles. The front features a centrally mounted illuminated Citroën logo, flanked by four rectangular lighting elements and decorative LED light strips positioned along the fascia edges. The lighting layout is mirrored at the rear, where taillights sit at the corners of the rear window.

Source: Citroën

The vehicle uses opposing electric sliding side doors and eliminates the B-pillar, creating a wide, unobstructed side opening. Citroën said this configuration improves access and reinforces the interior’s modular design. The rear is expected to use a split tailgate based on visible panel gaps.

Citroën said the ELO rides on aerodynamically optimized closed wheels with hexagonal styling. The automaker collaborated with Goodyear to develop smart tire components that monitor pressure and wear in real time, with data displayed through LED indicators embedded in the wheel design.

Source: Citroën

The roof structure includes movable sections over both the front cabin and cargo area. These panels can slide and lift upward to increase interior headroom and support outdoor and leisure use cases, including camping.

Inside, the ELO adopts a minimalist layout with a centrally positioned driver’s seat. Citroën said the seat placement is dictated by the rear-wheel-drive electric layout and front wheel packaging constraints, while also freeing space for rear passengers. The traditional instrument cluster is removed, replaced by a projected display positioned along the lower edge of the windshield.

Source: Citroën

Seating is highly configurable. The ELO supports both four-seat and six-seat layouts. The driver’s seat rotates 360 degrees and includes mounting points for a fold-out table intended for in-vehicle work. The second-row seats can recline, fold flat, or be fully removed and used as portable outdoor chairs.

Citroën said two additional seats are concealed beneath the second-row seat cushions. These can be deployed and slid forward to sit alongside the driver’s seat, allowing flexible seating arrangements without increasing the vehicle’s exterior size.

Source: Citroën

For rest and entertainment scenarios, the cargo floor houses an inflatable mattress developed with Decathlon. When the second row is folded, the mattress can be inflated using an onboard air pump to create a sleeping area for two occupants. A retractable projection screen is mounted in the center of the roof to support in-car movie viewing.

Citroën confirmed the ELO is fully electric, uses rear-wheel drive, and supports vehicle-to-load external power output. The company has not disclosed battery capacity, driving range, performance figures, or charging specifications.

While the ELO remains a concept, the vehicle outlines how Citroën is testing new approaches to compact electric vehicles that prioritize cabin adaptability and use-case flexibility over conventional segment definitions.

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