Citroen E-Mehari Electric Beach Buggy Review: 124-Mile Range

The Citroen E-Mehari revives the spirit of the original Mehari as an all-electric open-top beach buggy, offering a playful blend of retro styling and modern electric propulsion. Designed for leisurely coastal drives rather than high-speed performance, it delivers instant torque and a unique driving character that’s equal parts fun and unpredictable.

Origins and Design Inspiration

Citroen’s decision to electrify the Mehari pays homage to the 1970s icon, a lightweight plastic-bodied vehicle derived from the 2CV platform, loved for its beach-ready versatility. The E-Mehari updates this concept with a steel chassis supporting heavy batteries, wrapped in durable plastic bodywork and a fabric roof. Its high ride height and rugged fender flares emphasize off-road capability for sand and light trails, while bold colors and minimalist lines capture a timeless, adventurous aesthetic.

Unlike replicas that stick closely to the original, the E-Mehari introduces contemporary touches like customizable accents and LED lighting for better visibility. The open-top design invites the elements, making it ideal for sun-soaked holidays where wind-in-hair freedom trumps everyday practicality.

Electric Powertrain and Performance

At the heart is a 68bhp (50kW) electric motor paired with a 30kWh lithium-ion battery, providing a real-world range of around 124 miles under optimal conditions. Acceleration is brisk from a standstill, with 166Nm of torque available instantly up to 3,700rpm, propelling the lightweight buggy to 40mph with zippy enthusiasm before tapering off toward its 70mph top speed.

This setup suits low-speed cruising perfectly—think winding coastal roads or island hopping—where the silent, emission-free operation enhances the relaxed vibe. Regenerative braking helps extend range during downhill runs, and charging takes about 9 hours on a standard wallbox or faster with DC options.

Handling and Ride Dynamics

The E-Mehari’s long-travel suspension absorbs major undulations but transmits smaller bumps harshly into the cabin, creating a ride that’s soft yet jiggly. High center of gravity leads to pronounced body roll in corners, demanding counter-steering like a motorcyclist—entertaining at low speeds but confidence-sapping faster.

• Excels on smooth tarmac and light off-road paths.
• Body lean adds character but limits spirited driving.
• Power steering with City mode aids urban maneuvers.

Steering is light and precise, though the overall setup feels more like a quirky toy than a precision instrument, prioritizing smiles over lap times.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Waterproof, hosedown materials define the cabin, built for sandy beaches rather than luxury lounging. Newer versions feature enveloping, height-adjustable seats, an Easy Entry system for rear access, and a redesigned dashboard with body-colored trim. Storage includes console bins, door pockets, and a lockable 78-liter boot compartment.

Folding rear benches expand cargo from 200 to 800 liters, accommodating gear for weekend getaways. However, pre-production models showed creaky doors, kit-car vibes, and no airbags, though production units improved insulation and security with central locking.

Modern amenities like wireless charging, USB ports, and a digital display bring it into the 21st century without cluttering the minimalist ethos.

Versatility with Roof Options

The standard fabric roof requires two people and 10 minutes to install, but the Hard Top variant transforms it into a weatherproof family hauler. This includes side windows, quarterlights, and an opening rear glass for better acoustics, thermal control, and theft deterrence—making it viable for year-round use.

• Hard Top: Excellent isolation, family-friendly.
• Fabric Roof: Pure open-air thrill.
• Removable panels for hybrid setups.

Ideal Use Cases: Holiday Cruiser Supreme

As a purchase, it’s niche and pricey, but shines as a rental for beach vacations—return it sandy and carefree. Coastal islands like Sylt or Ibiza highlight its strengths: silent propulsion, playful dynamics, and head-turning style. Avoid motorways or rough winters unless opting for the Hard Top.

For enthusiasts, it embodies Citroen’s quirky heritage, bridging fossil-fuel nostalgia with EV future. Competitors like electric dune buggies lack its four-seater practicality.

Safety and Reliability Considerations

Early models skipped airbags, relying on low speeds and open design for safety. Updated powertrains and structures improved stability. Battery placement lowers the center of gravity slightly, aiding handling. Long-term reliability draws from Bolloré’s EV expertise, with minimal mechanicals reducing failure points.

Market Position and Pricing

Originally a limited-run special, it targeted lifestyle buyers over mass-market commuters. Pricing reflected premium retro appeal, though availability waned post-2019. Recent concepts hint at revivals with enhanced range and tech.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the E-Mehari suitable for daily driving?

No, its range and ride suit leisure more than commutes, but Hard Top versions handle urban use better.

How does it compare to the original Mehari?

Electric power replaces the 29hp petrol engine, adding torque but retaining plastic body and fun factor.

What’s the charging time?

Full charge in 9 hours via AC; DC for quicker top-ups.

Can it go off-road?

Light sand and trails yes, thanks to high clearance; not extreme terrain.

Is it family-friendly?

Four seats and expandable boot make it so, especially with Hard Top.

Final Verdict

The Citroen E-Mehari delights with its unapologetic quirkiness, offering electric fun in a retro package perfect for beach jaunts. Handling compromises and limited range keep it specialized, but for holiday joy, few match its charm.