Citroën 2 CV Concept: An Icon Returns as an Affordable Electric Car
French carmaker Citroën has brought the spirit of its iconic 2 CV into the electric era with a new concept unveiled at the 2026 Paris Motor Show.
The Citroën 2 CV Concept takes inspiration from the original car, with round headlamps, a curved roofline and familiar proportions reinterpreted for modern times. It also features a minimalist cabin, a colourful interior and several unusual practical touches. Citroën plans to introduce a production model inspired by the concept by 2028.
Citroën 2 CV Concept: A Modern Take on a Classic
First unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 1948, the original Citroën 2 CV was designed around a simple idea: make everyday mobility accessible and practical. Over time, it became one of the French automaker’s most recognisable models.
The new concept revisits that philosophy rather than attempting to recreate the original car. Citroën wants to build a small electric car that focuses on essential needs, easy everyday use and a distinctive personality.
At 3.76 metres long, the 2 CV Concept is even shorter than its predecessor. Citroën is also targeting a weight of around one tonne. A lighter car can use a smaller battery, helping reduce costs while providing a range suited to everyday journeys.
The concept is intended to sit between the Ami and C3 in Citroën’s range and comply with future European E-Car regulations.
Retro Styling With Modern Details
The 2 CV Concept retains the original’s instantly recognisable shape, but its design has been updated with sharper lines and more sculpted surfaces.
At the front, round headlamps sit separately from the bodywork, accompanied by an expressive LED lighting signature and a sweeping bonnet. Exposed windscreen wipers add another distinctive detail.
The side profile features a vertical windscreen, a flowing curved roof, rounded wheel arches and contoured door handles. The 18-inch steel wheels are inspired by the original 2 CV, while Michelin tyres carry heritage-inspired detailing.
At the rear, a black tailgate extends down towards the bumper, recalling the design of the first-generation 2 CV. LED tail-lamps sit on either side, with three horizontal stripes adding another link to the classic model.
The concept’s Infra Red exterior finish, developed from an orange base with yellow and red highlights, gives it a brighter, more contemporary appearance.
A Cabin With Some Clever Ideas
Inside, Citroën has taken a different approach from the conventional dashboard and touchscreen-heavy layouts found in many modern cars.
The 2 CV Concept features a cylindrical structure in place of a traditional dashboard. It houses a single-spoke steering wheel, a control lever, a paddle-shift gear selector and the Citroën Smart Vision display, which places essential driving information within the driver’s field of vision.
An 8-inch square touchscreen features graphics inspired by comic books. Another unusual addition is Radioën, a detachable radio that doubles as a portable speaker and can be used outside the car.
The cabin also features wide seats incorporating Citroën Advanced Comfort technology. A pull-out front seat is designed to make breaks more relaxing, while a fabric sunroof brings in light and creates a more open atmosphere.
Practicality is central to the interior. A removable storage basket replaces the conventional centre console, and soft straps serve as door handles.
The most unexpected detail might be the door storage compartments, which are designed to hold eggs. It is a playful reference to the practical thinking behind the original 2 CV.
Yellow tartan seat upholstery, beige accents inspired by Bakelite and textured surfaces influenced by cane and basketry give the cabin a distinctive look. The idea is to keep the interior functional without making it feel ordinary.
Small Details That Pay Tribute to the Original
Citroën has included several subtle references to the history of the 2 CV.
The numbers 48, 90 and 26 on the windscreen represent 1948, when the original model was launched; 1990, when production ended; and 2026, when the concept was unveiled.
The concept’s horn and electric-motor start-up sound are also inspired by the original car. Heart-shaped stickers reference its popularity, while the accelerator and brake pedals feature a rabbit and a tortoise, respectively.
These details give the concept its own personality while connecting it to the car that inspired it.
Citroën 2 CV Concept: Expected Price and Launch
Citroën is targeting a starting price of around €15,000 for the future production model. The vehicle is planned to be manufactured in Europe and is intended to comply with future European E-Car regulations.
The company says the model will join its range by 2028. However, the concept is still a design study, and the final production car’s specifications, equipment and pricing have not been confirmed.
The proposed price and timeline reflect Citroën’s ambitions rather than final retail details.
Can the 2 CV Philosophy Work for Electric Cars?
The 2 CV Concept stands out because it takes a different approach to the modern car. Instead of adding more size and complexity, Citroën is exploring how a compact electric vehicle can remain practical, comfortable and appealing.
Its heritage-inspired design gives it character, while features such as the detachable speaker, removable storage basket and unusual door compartments show that practicality need not be boring.
The real test will come when Citroën turns the concept into a production car. For now, the 2 CV Concept offers a fresh interpretation of an automotive icon, with a focus on bringing the original’s simple, practical spirit to a new generation of electric cars.