New Delhi: Citroën has revived one of its most recognisable automotive names with the unveiling of the 2CV Concept at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. The all-electric concept reinterprets the original 2CV with updated styling, a distinctive cabin layout and modern electric technology. Its debut comes 78 years after the original Citroën 2CV was introduced at the 1948 Paris Motor Show.
The concept offers a preview of a potential entry-level electric hatchback designed for everyday mobility. Citroën plans to launch the production version in 2028, positioning it between the Ami and C3 in its global lineup. The company is targeting an estimated starting price of around €15,000, which would make it one of its more affordable electric cars.
Citroën 2CV Concept: Exterior Design
The new Citroën 2CV Concept measures 3.76 metres in length, making it shorter than the original model. Citroën is also aiming to keep its kerb weight below 1,000kg. A lower weight could help the production car use a smaller, more affordable battery while delivering enough range for daily commuting.
The exterior draws heavily on the classic 2CV’s rounded proportions. At the front, circular LED headlights are paired with semi-circular daytime running lights. A closed grille incorporates the brand’s familiar double-chevron logo, while the bonnet features a raised central pattern, a V-shaped design and a thick silver strip inspired by the original car.
The windscreen carries the numbers 48, 90 and 26, marking three key milestones in the model’s history: its introduction in 1948, the end of production in 1990 and the unveiling of the new concept in 2026.
Along the sides, a flowing roofline extends towards the rear, complemented by gloss-black rounded wheel arches and turn indicators integrated into the C-pillars. The concept rides on 18-inch steel wheels with styling inspired by the original 2CV. Its tyres feature Michelin branding and Citroën’s chevron pattern on the sidewalls.
Michelin has also incorporated a technology known as the ‘universal digital twin of the tyre’. According to Citroën, the system continuously monitors tyre conditions and helps the vehicle respond to its surroundings.
At the rear, a black tailgate extends towards the bumper, echoing the layout of the classic model. Three horizontal styling lines, a short rear overhang, a conventional tailgate handle and slim LED tail lamps complete the design. A thick silver strip mirrors the treatment used at the front, while the number plate area displays international nicknames associated with the original 2CV.
Citroën 2CV Concept: Interior and Features
The cabin combines a minimalist layout with playful details inspired by the original car. A bright white-and-yellow colour scheme runs throughout the interior, while the flooring, door panels and other surfaces use woven-texture fabric inspired by traditional cane baskets.
Rather than using separate conventional seats, Citroën has opted for bench-style seating finished in yellow tartan fabric. The most striking feature is the absence of a traditional dashboard. In its place, a cylindrical structure stretches across the front of the cabin, helping create a more open appearance.
A single-spoke steering wheel is mounted on this structure, alongside a control lever and an 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system uses comic book-inspired graphics, with physical toggle switches positioned beneath the display. A digital instrument screen sits just below the windscreen, keeping key driving information within the driver’s line of sight.
The concept also skips a conventional centre console. Instead, it includes a removable 3D-printed storage basket designed to provide practical space without taking up too much room. Fabric straps replace traditional door handles, while a fabric sunroof adds to the vehicle’s retro-inspired character.
Another unusual feature is the detachable radio unit, named ‘Radioen’. It can be removed from the car and used as a portable speaker. Citroën has also added playful symbols to the pedals, with a rabbit on the accelerator and a tortoise on the brake.
Battery, Range and Expected Price
Citroën has not released detailed technical specifications for the 2CV Concept. Information about battery capacity, motor output, charging capability and driving range remains unavailable.
The company has, however, confirmed its aim of keeping the vehicle’s weight below one tonne. This approach could make it possible to use a smaller and less expensive battery while providing a range suited to everyday driving.
The concept’s development appears focused on affordability, efficiency and low running costs rather than outright performance. Citroën is targeting a 2028 launch for the production model, with an expected starting price of approximately €15,000.
The company has not yet confirmed how closely the production car will follow the concept’s design. For now, the new 2CV provides an early look at Citroën’s vision for accessible electric mobility, combining the distinctive character of a historic model with contemporary electric technology.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on details available about the Citroën 2CV Concept at the time of writing. The final production model, specifications, driving range, features, launch timeline and pricing may differ from the concept and remain subject to official confirmation by the manufacturer.