To celebrate 100 years of the first crossing of the Sahara, Citroën decided to repeat the feat and created the initiative Ë.PIC with which it intends to replicate the centenary trip, but this time in electric mode, taking the opportunity to promote innovative and sustainable forms of mobility.
According to Citroën, the Ë.PIC will take place between December 19, 2022 and January 7, 2023, precisely 100 years after the first car crossing the Sahara.
Unveiled at a press conference held at Citroën's stand at the “Rétromobile 2020” show, the Ë.PIC initiative is, according to the French brand, not a speed competition, but a human adventure, aboard three types of vehicles : past, present and future.
Which vehicles will participate?
Therefore, in this adventure Citroën will participate: two replicas of the semi-tracks of the 1st crossing; two electric vehicles as standard for assistance — new models and will be part of the French brand's range from 2022 onwards — and a 100% electric concept car.Subscribe to our newsletter
As for the replicas of the semi-tracks used on the first trip, the first, the Scarabée d’Or, has already been produced and is fully functional. The second should be completed this year.
What will the route be?
The aim of Ë.PIC is to follow the original route as closely as possible, covering a total of 3170 km over 21 days of travel.
Therefore, Citroën's new Sahara crossing will include the following stages: 200 km from Touggourt to Ouargala; 770 km from Ouargala to In-Salah; 800 km from In-Salah to Silet; 500 km from Silet to Tin Zaouaten; 100 km from Tin Zaouaten to Tin Toudaten; 100 km from Tin Toudaten to Kidal; 350 km from Kidal to Bourem; 100 km from Bourem to Bamba and 250 km from Bamba to Tombouctou.