Citroën unveils electric version of French classic

Citroën has unveiled an electric version of its classic 2CV, with plans to manufacture the new model in Europe and sell it for around €15,000 from 2028.

The prototype was revealed on October 11 ahead of the Paris Motor Show, marking the return of one of France's most recognisable cars, 36 years after production of the original ended.

The new four-seater retains the rounded bonnet, distinctive headlights and sloping rear of its predecessor, alongside a folding fabric roof.

At 3.76m long, it is designed as a small, lightweight electric car, with an emphasis on affordability rather than sophisticated technology.

Familiar design

Citroën has retained several features associated with the original 2CV, including bench-style seating, a minimalist dashboard and a gear selector inspired by the old model.

There are also retro-inspired controls and a small digital display.

Several playful references to the original have been included. The horn and electric motor's start-up sound recall those of the old 2CV, while the brake and accelerator pedals feature a tortoise and rabbit respectively.

The door compartments are designed to carry eggs, recalling the original brief for a car capable of transporting farm produce over rough country roads without breaking it.

The windscreen bears the numbers 48, 90 and 26, marking the original car's unveiling in 1948, the end of production in 1990 and the new concept's presentation in 2026.

The design was developed under Citroën's head of design, Pierre Leclercq, who told Le Monde that the team had respected the original concept of “four wheels under an umbrella”, while taking the idea further inside the vehicle.

The company has not yet confirmed the production model's battery capacity, range or charging specifications. Its target price of approximately €15,000 is also provisional.

Citroën chief executive Xavier Chardon said the original 2CV had brought personal mobility to millions of people, adding that the new version would aim to democratise electric motoring.

A French motoring icon

First unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1948, the original 2CV was conceived as an inexpensive, practical vehicle capable of transporting people and goods across rural France.

Its simple construction, economical engine and distinctive appearance helped make it one of the country's best-known cars.

More than five million examples were manufactured before production ended in 1990, including the commercial versions.

The electric revival comes as European manufacturers increasingly revisit historic models, following the return of cars such as the Renault 5 in electric form.

The new 2CV is on display at the Paris Motor Show, which runs until October 18.