Citroen C5 Aircross plug-in hybrid drivers are to get reminders about charging following a new over-the-air software update.

The ‘Plug-in Reminders’, which come in the form of a message on the touchscreen, aim to help drivers optimise the efficiency of their PHEV, to enable them to run on electric power as often as possible.

Citroen said recent data shows that 55% of journeys of less than 25 miles are made using electric, and 52% of customers already charge their vehicle once or twice every 62 miles.

An increase in charging frequency would further increase the proportion of electric-only journeys and reduce fuel consumption.

As part of the notification process, the customer’s specific usage is taken into consideration.

In the first instance, after five days and 10 journeys have been made without the vehicle being plugged in, the software will issue one notification via the touchscreen per day.

If the vehicle is not plugged in after 30 days, the notification is then displayed twice a day while the vehicle is in use.

Citroen C5 Aircross drivers in the UK and France will receive the over-the-air update first, with a number of other European countries receiving it from December 1.

PHEV notifications will also feature on the Citroen C5 X Hybrid when it comes to the UK in 2022.

> Interested in comparing electric vehicle data? Check out our EV tool.

> Interested in ensuring the efficient use of EVs. Check out our dedicated editorial sections: Insight & policy | EV news | Charging & infrastructure | Costs & incentives | Benefit-in-kind | EV case studies | EV road tests