Citroën's 2CV Concept revealed

Citroën unveiled the 2CV Concept at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, a modern electric reinterpretation of its iconic 1948 model, with a planned production version expected by 2028.

Design and dimensions

The concept car measures 3.76 meters in length, shorter than the original 2CV, and is positioned between the Citroën Ami and the C3 in the brand's range. The design aims to capture the spirit of the original 2CV, featuring a rounded silhouette, detached round headlights with LED signatures, and a sculpted hood with stripes inspired by the pre-war TPV prototype.

Exterior features

The car includes visible bumpers, a vertical windshield, and a fabric roof that can be rolled up as a top. The production version is expected to weigh around one ton, significantly lighter than most current electric city cars, though the exact battery capacity, power, and range remain unspecified.

Interior design

Inside, the 2CV Concept features a minimalist interior with no traditional dashboard, replaced by a horizontal cylinder housing a single-spoke steering wheel, a gear selector, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The seats are covered in a tartan pattern in bright yellow, with beige elements evoking bakelite.

Functional details

The front bench is removable for use during a picnic, and the central console is replaced by a removable basket. A removable "Radioën" radio serves as a Bluetooth speaker. The car includes practical details such as egg-shaped door compartments, a fabric roof, and a digital license plate displaying the car's nicknames across different countries.

Pricing and manufacturing

Citroën aims for a starting price of around 15,000 euros for the production model, significantly lower than the current ë-C3. The brand plans to manufacture the 2CV in Europe, potentially sharing the platform with the Leapmotor T03 and the future Fiat Pandina.

Strategic goals

The project is part of a broader strategy to counter the rise of low-cost electric vehicles from Asia and to meet the European E-Car regulation, which could ease regulatory constraints on small electric cars. However, the success of the 2CV will depend on the relaxation of European safety regulations and the ability to meet the targeted price without compromising on safety and quality standards.

Nods to the original

The 2CV Concept includes nods to the original model's specifications, such as the ability to transport a basket of eggs without breaking them, and the sound of the horn and startup noise replicating those of the original 2CV. The car's design also incorporates elements for ease of repair and maintenance, with flat surfaces and replaceable bumpers.

Future outlook

The production version's ability to retain these features while meeting homologation requirements remains uncertain. The 2CV, which sold over 5.1 million units between 1948 and 1990, is poised to make a comeback as an affordable, accessible electric vehicle in the 2028 market.