Citroën Unveils Electric 2CV Concept at Mondial Paris 2026
Citroën revealed its 2CV Concept in Paris, signaling a production model slated for release by 2028 with a targeted price tag of approximately €15,000. The vehicle reimagines the classic French utility car—originally produced from 1948 to 1990—as a compact, lightweight urban electric vehicle designed to navigate upcoming European regulations for small electric cars.
Design and Dimensions of the New Electric Eend
The modern interpretation measures 3.76 meters in length, making it roughly nine centimeters shorter than the original model, according to Auto Review and Autofans. Citroën targets a total vehicle weight of around 1,000 kilograms. The exterior incorporates distinct retro design elements, including round headlights separated from the body, a nearly vertical windshield, prominent hood ribs, bulging fenders, and a signature fabric roll-top roof.
Interior features embrace minimalism. Autofans noted the absence of a traditional center console, substituting a flat floor equipped with an extractable picnic basket. The cabin includes a square 8-inch touchscreen, a narrow instrument panel, and a single-spoke steering wheel. AutoGids highlighted the ‘Radioën,’ a portable Bluetooth speaker unit that functions both inside the vehicle and as an external sound system.
Production Timeline and European Market Positioning
Citroën intends to position the production version between the ultra-compact Ami and the C3 in its European lineup, with assembly taking place within Europe. While technical specifications such as battery capacity, motor power, and exact driving range remain unconfirmed by the manufacturer, Auto Review noted that the development relies heavily on the European Union finalizing the proposed M1E vehicle category. This forthcoming regulatory class aims to simplify and reduce the costs associated with producing lightweight, compact electric vehicles locally to counter the market entry of lower-priced imports from manufacturers like Leapmotor, Dongfeng, and Firefly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the production version of the Citroën 2CV go on sale?
Citroën confirmed plans to launch a production-ready model inspired by the concept car by 2028, with an intended starting price of roughly €15,000.
How does the new concept compare in size to the original 1948 2CV?
At 3.76 meters long, the new concept is approximately nine centimeters shorter than the original vehicle while maintaining a target weight of around 1,000 kilograms.
What regulatory changes support the development of this low-cost electric vehicle?
The vehicle is designed around the prospective European M1E regulatory framework, which aims to facilitate the production of smaller, lighter, and more affordable electric cars within Europe.
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