Citroën reveals ELO concept electric MPV designed as a flexible living space

Urban Electric MPV: Citroën has unveiled the ELO concept car, an electric multi-purpose vehicle presented as an ideas laboratory. Measuring 4.10 metres in length, ELO is shorter than many compact hatchbacks but is designed to seat up to six people. Built on a dedicated electric platform, it is intended to demonstrate how future urban family vehicles can combine compact dimensions with a spacious, flexible interior layout.

Rest Play Work: The name ELO is derived from rEst, pLay and wOrk, reflecting its intended functions. Citroën positions the concept as more than transport, describing it as a vehicle that supports travel, relaxation, leisure and work. The interior is designed as a living space, allowing occupants to rest, socialise or carry out professional tasks while the vehicle is parked or in use.

Central Driving Layout: A defining feature of the Citroën ELO is its central driving position. The driver sits in the middle of the cabin, improving outward visibility and eliminating the need for left- and right-hand-drive variants. The seat can rotate 360 degrees to enable conversation or work. Two additional seats can unfold behind the driver, allowing a 6-passenger capacity without reducing luggage space.

Highly Modular Cabin: The interior layout prioritises modularity. Behind the driver are three rear seats of equal width, which can fold flat, be removed, or used as outdoor chairs. Seatbacks can form a flat surface for sleeping, with space for two inflatable mattresses. Configurations also allow the cabin to transform into a home cinema or mobile office, supported by integrated power and projection features.

Electric Architecture: Citroën has disclosed limited technical details. ELO uses a 100 percent electric architecture with the motor mounted on the rear axle. No data has been released on output, battery capacity, range or performance. The company states that the electric platform enables a flat floor and compact proportions while freeing space inside, reinforcing the vehicle’s focus on usability rather than driving metrics.

Design Priorities: The ELO’s exterior reflects a function-led approach. Wheels are pushed to the corners to maximise interior volume. Large glass surfaces provide 4.5 square metres of glazing, allowing extensive natural light. Semi-circular rear doors extend into the roof, while sliding side doors and the absence of a central pillar create a wide 1.92-metre opening for easy access.

Living Features: Citroën describes the ELO as a “tiny house on wheels.” Practical features support that claim. An integrated underfloor compressor can inflate sports equipment or tyres. Vehicle-to-load technology allows the battery to power external devices such as speakers or grills. Hooks on the doors support an awning, turning the vehicle into a sheltered base for outdoor activities.

Minimalist Interface: The cockpit departs from traditional dashboards. Driving information is projected onto a transparent film at the base of the windscreen, creating a floating display effect first explored in the 2022 Oli concept. Most controls are concentrated on a single-spoke steering wheel, including joystick-style inputs, while physical buttons are limited to essential functions for simplicity and cost efficiency.

Materials Approach: ELO also explores manufacturing efficiency and sustainability. The front and rear bumpers are identical parts, reducing tooling and repair costs. Expanded polypropylene, containing recycled material, is used on bumpers and exterior surfaces. Citroën collaborated with Decathlon on removable seating and inflatable elements, and with Goodyear on smart tyres that indicate pressure status via coloured LEDs.

Concept Direction: Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon said ELO represents the brand’s vision for future mobility, emphasising accessibility, ingenuity and well-being. The concept follows the Oli project from 2022 and is not confirmed for production. ELO will make its public debut at the Brussels Motor Show on 9 January, where it will serve as a statement of intent rather than a finished product.