Heritage Recharged - When many images and rumors about a possible electric version of the Citroën 2CV surfaced on X—one of them sparked by a post from Quirky Rides asking, “The #Citroën #2CV returns: it will be electric. Would you?”—the internet lit up with excitement. For a car that once helped put France on wheels, even the hint of a return was enough to reignite nostalgic curiosity and prompt a bigger question: could this quirky icon really be making a comeback?
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| Rumors and images of a possible electric Citroën 2CV—sparked by a Quirky Rides post on X—quickly stirred excitement online. (Picture from: QuirkyRides in X) |
For decades, the Citroën 2CV stood for freedom and simplicity, created post-war to give rural communities practical mobility. Now, nearly 80 years later, that same spirit may be returning—only this time, reimagined for the electric age. According to Citroën leadership, reviving the 2CV as an EV is no longer out of the question.
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| The origins of the Citroën 2CV can be traced all the way back to the 1930s, when initial concepts were developed to bring mobility to rural France. (Picture from: EFE) |
Thierry Koskas, CEO of Citroën, recently acknowledged that early design work on a potential electric 2CV is underway, with a possible launch aimed for 2028—just in time for the model’s 80th anniversary. Citing the car’s global recognition, he emphasized how its legacy could be key to carving out space in today’s crowded EV market.
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| Citroën CEO Thierry Koskas recently confirmed that the company has started early design work on a potential electric 2CV, with a possible launch in 2028 to coincide with the model’s 80th anniversary. (Picture from: Telegraph) |
However, the project has yet to receive official approval. While Citroën is experimenting with design ideas and gauging public interest, insiders say the biggest challenge isn’t engineering or demand—it’s strategic positioning. A budget-friendly 2CV EV might risk cannibalizing sales of Citroën’s own ë-C3, raising internal competition concerns.
Still, the idea gained traction for a reason. The massive success of the retro-styled Renault 5 EV—charming, affordable, and wildly popular—has proven that buyers crave electric cars with personality. Selling nearly 10,000 units in its first full month in France, the R5 even outperformed the ë-C3, offering a strong case for Citroën to tap into its heritage.
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| Citroën’s design chief, Pierre Leclercq, noted that while the brand isn’t ruling out retro design cues, the focus is on reviving the 2CV’s philosophy rather than merely replicating its shape—striking a balance between vintage charm and modern minimalism. (Picture from: Telegraph) |
If greenlit, the new 2CV is expected to closely resemble the original, unlike the Renault 5 which blends old cues with modern lines. Citroën design chief Pierre Leclercq confirmed the brand isn't turning away from retro elements, but stressed the focus is on reviving the 2CV's original philosophy—delivering honest, simple mobility—not just replicating its look. The approach would blend classic charm with minimalism.
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| Rendering images of a possible electric Citroën 2CV were created as artist impressions by Dejan Hristov. (Picture from: ElectricDrives) |
From a technical standpoint, the plan aligns with Citroën’s cost-conscious ethos. The electric 2CV would likely sit on Stellantis’s Smart Car platform—already used in the ë-C3 and Fiat Grande Panda—though potentially simplified further to cut costs. This could position it between the ultra-affordable Ami and the more capable ë-C3, targeting rivals like the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03.
Rather than chase range records, the 2CV EV would focus on daily practicality with a compact battery offering around 140 miles—comparable to the Dacia Spring. That keeps pricing in check while staying true to the original’s purpose: mobility for all.
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| An Autocar rendering offers a visual take on what a modern 2CV might look like if it closely followed the design of the original classic. (Picture from: Autocar) |
And unlike the original 2CV, often stored away in winter, its electric successor could be used year-round with far less maintenance. In fact, electric conversions of vintage 2CVs already exist—and are beloved for blending classic character with modern ease. It's that very appeal Citroën is aiming to recapture.
Still, no final decision has been made. Multiple sources have confirmed that the project remains exploratory, with concerns over internal overlap and market timing still under review. Koskas has hinted that Citroën isn’t planning a retro lineup—just select models that connect emotionally and tell a meaningful story.
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| The facelifted Citroën Ami, inspired by the 2CV and shown at the 2024 Paris Auto Show, reflects the brand’s growing taste for retro-flavoured design. (Picture from: Autocar) |
Even so, momentum is building. Designers are sketching. The public is engaged. Whether as a production model or a celebratory concept, the 2CV’s electric rebirth feels closer than it has in decades. And if it does happen, it might once again give drivers what they’ve been missing—something practical, playful, and proudly different.Until then, all eyes remain on Citroën. Because the thought of a quiet little “tin snail” zipping through modern streets feels less like fantasy—and more like perfect timing. *** [EKA | FROM VAROUS SOURCES | QUIRKYRIDES IN X | ELECTRICCARSCHEME | AUTOCAR | ELECTRICDRIVES | EFE | TELEGRAPH ]
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