Affordable EVs have become weirdly hard to find. But Citroën is reaching deep into its own history for a fix. The company has recently confirmed that the beloved Citroën 2CV is coming back as a fully electric car, more than three decades after the original ended production. Citroën CEO Xavier Chardon announced the revival at a Stellantis investor event in Michigan, saying the new 2CV will be 100% electric, built in Europe, and priced below €15,000, or about $17,400.
The people’s car goes electric
The original 2CV was introduced at the Paris auto salon on October 7, 1948, and became one of France’s most famous everyday cars. It was practical, simple, and most importantly, cheap. It eventually earned the nickname “la deudeuche”. After its long run, the production ended in Portugal in 1990, partly because of tightening European emissions rules.
Now Citroën wants to bring that spirit into the EV era. Chardon said the 1948 2CV gave “freedom of mobility to millions,” and that the new version will try to “democratize electric mobility.”
What was revealed?
Citroën has already shown the exterior to journalists and analysts, according to the AFP report. The revamped 2CV reportedly keeps key visual cues from the original, including the domed ribbed hood and protruding headlights. Modern safety and road regulations may still force design changes before production.
A version of the car is expected to appear at the Paris auto show in October, with retail availability planned in about two years. Citroën mainly expects to market the car in Europe. Unfortunately, details are still scarce, but the highlight is clear. The people’s car is turning into an EV, and it will be affordable for the masses.