Citroën Unveils 2CV EV Concept: A €15,000 Retro City Car for 2028

Key points

• The new 2CV concept is smaller than the 1948 original, measuring 3.76 meters in length.
• Citroën targets a production price of €15,000 (approx. £12,750) to make it one of Europe's cheapest EVs.
• The car uses a dedicated new platform, distinct from the C3's Smart Car or Stellantis's STLA One platforms.
• Design includes a cylindrical steering column, removable 'Radioën' speaker, and a fabric folding roof.
• Production is expected to begin in 2028, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the original 2CV's launch.

Background

The original 2CV, launched in 1948, was designed as a cheap, robust vehicle for post-war rural France, famously capable of carrying eggs across ploughed fields without breaking them. It remained in production until 1990. In the current market, European automakers are facing intense competition from Chinese manufacturers, prompting a trend of reviving classic models with modern electric technology, similar to Renault's recent Twingo and Fiat's 500.

How outlets are covering it

Motor1.com emphasizes the technical specifications, noting the car's weight of 2,200 pounds and its position between the Ami and C3 in Citroën's lineup. BBC highlights the strategic use of nostalgia to combat Chinese competition, quoting CEO Xavier Chardon on the car's role in addressing mobility challenges. Autocar provides specific technical details, mentioning a target kerb weight of 1,000 kg and potential use of lithium-iron-phosphate batteries, while Top Gear focuses on the design philosophy, describing the car as 'evocative but not nostalgic' and highlighting the involvement of designer Gilles Vidal.

Why it matters

The 2CV concept represents a significant attempt by European legacy brands to retain market share in the affordable EV segment against cheaper Chinese competitors. By combining iconic heritage with modern electric technology at a low price point, Citroën aims to appeal to both older demographics familiar with the original and younger buyers attracted to retro aesthetics, potentially influencing the future of budget electric mobility in Europe.

What to watch

Citroën plans to launch the production version of the 2CV in 2028, potentially at the Paris Motor Show. The company is currently finalizing the design and technical specifications, with many concept features expected to transition to production. The car's success will depend on maintaining the target price of €15,000 and achieving the desired lightweight, minimalist build.