Citroen also announced that it will increase its UK network of EV dealers from 11 to 21. Both companies plan to introduce small electric commercial vans in 2013.

It doesn’t take an expert to figure out why EVs haven’t been roaring off the lots since they hit the mass market in 2011 – prices are far too high in relation to comparable oil-burning models. This week, twin French automakers Peugeot and Citroen took the obvious step, slashing the UK prices of their iOn and C-Zero EVs (rebadged versions of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV four-door hatchback) from £33,155 to £26,216 (about $52,500 to $41,500). UK buyers are eligible for a £5,000 Plug-in Car Grant from the government.

Mitsubishi also sells the i-MiEV in the UK, but it has not yet announced a matching price drop. The company sells a slightly different version called the i in the US, starting around $29,000.

Citroen also announced that it will increase its UK network of EV dealers from 11 to 21. Both companies plan to introduce small electric commercial vans in 2013.

Peugeot UK spokesman Phil Robson commented, “2011 marked a return of EVs for Peugeot in the UK. We want to continue to develop our EV strategy as the technology becomes more accepted by consumers and the charging infrastructure continues to develop. Peugeot has been at the forefront of the EV market with iOn and this latest development is a key part in our low CO2 strategy.”

Image: Peugeot