Citroen is preparing to revive its iconic 2CV model for the electric age, with a concept set to debut at the Paris Motor Show. The move comes as the European Commission pushes for affordable electric vehicles, aiming to fill a critical gap in the market. The reimagined 2CV will leverage new regulations designed to incentivize electric city car production within the EU.
The Revival of a Legend
The original Citroen 2CV revolutionized post-WWII motoring by providing accessible transportation. Now, under CEO Xavier Chardon, Citroen is capitalizing on the success of retro-inspired designs like the Renault 5, which has seen strong demand with over 120,000 orders. This revival is not merely a nostalgic gesture; it’s a response to market trends and regulatory shifts.
The new 2CV will echo the original’s core values – affordability, practicality, and comfort – while embracing modern electric technology. Citroen’s design team, led by Pierre Leclercq, is working to reinterpret the 2CV ethos rather than simply recreating its aesthetics. Leclercq emphasized the importance of retaining the original’s spirit: “If you can reinterpret it in a car today, then let’s do it.”
Technical Specifications and Platform
The concept is expected to mirror the Renault Twingo in size and price, targeting the €16,000 (approximately £13,600) price point. It will utilize a shortened version of Renault’s RGEV Small platform, similar to the one underpinning the Renault 5. Citroen will likely adapt its own low-cost “Smart Car” platform, currently used in models like the C3 and Fiat Grande Panda, to support this new city car.
The electric powertrain is projected to include a 27.5kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, providing around 163 miles of range, coupled with an 80bhp electric motor. Stellantis, Citroen’s parent company, is investing heavily in battery production through a €4.1 billion joint venture with CATL in Spain, ensuring a secure supply of locally produced batteries by 2026.
Regulatory Context and Production Timeline
The revival aligns with the European Commission’s impending “M1E” category, designed to accelerate the production of affordable EVs assembled within the EU. This regulation will require cars to be under 4.2 meters in length and assembled within the economic block. The Commission aims to incentivize domestic battery production to fill the price gap below €25,000 before subsidies are phased out.
Citroen is targeting production by 2029, contingent on the EU ruling being finalized by the end of this year. This timing will allow Citroen to strategically position the new 2CV as a key player in the affordable electric city car segment.
The return of the 2CV signals a shift in automotive design, proving that retro-inspired, practical EVs can thrive in the modern market. This revival is not just about nostalgia; it’s about meeting a clear demand for accessible, sustainable transportation.
