Citroën has brought back the 2CV name for the electric age. The French carmaker unveiled a retro-styled concept at the Paris Motor Show, a small city runabout that echoes one of its most famous designs. A production version is planned for showrooms by 2028, with an expected price of around £13,000.
The move comes as European brands face mounting competition from Chinese manufacturers. Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon called the new car 'a modern, ingenious and refreshing response to the mobility challenges of tomorrow'. The original 2CV launched in 1948 as a cheap, robust vehicle for French farmers, and remained in production for over 40 years.
Citroën 2CV electric concept details
The new 2CV is currently a concept car, meaning it previews Citroën's design direction but is not yet ready for sale. As it stands, it shares several styling cues with its predecessor, including high, flared wheel arches, a tall curved roof and eye-like headlights. These are clear nods to the original 'deux chevaux' or 'two horses'.
The original 2CV was known for its high wheel arches and soft suspension, which allowed it to travel across rough fields—legend has it without breaking a tray of duck eggs. Its high roof let drivers wear a hat at the wheel, and it was easy to drive and simple to repair. Over time, it became a cult classic favoured by hippies and counter-culturalists.
Retro design meets electric competition
Citroën is not alone in using heritage to sell electric cars. Renault has revived the Renault 5, 4 and Twingo as EVs, while Volkswagen has the ID-Buzz minivan and Ford is working on a new electric model widely expected to be called the Fiesta. The trend has accelerated as carmakers look to win over sceptical consumers.
Rachel Burgess, senior editor of Autocar magazine, believes the strategy makes perfect sense. 'It's a brilliant differentiator from all-new car brands,' she says. 'An older audience might remember the originals and feel warmly towards them, and a younger audience might find an appeal in the retro aspect.'
