Citroen has brought back one of its most recognisable historic nameplates with the unveiling of the Citroen 2 CV Concept at the Paris Motor Show 2026.
The new concept reimagines the original 2 CV as a compact electric hatchback, combining retro-inspired styling with modern lighting, digital features and an unconventional cabin layout.
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The reveal comes 78 years after the original Citroen 2 CV was showcased in 1948. The Citroen 2 CV Concept previews a future production model expected in 2028, with a targeted starting price of around 15,000 euros. In Citroen’s global lineup, the upcoming electric hatchback will sit between the Ami and C3, giving the brand a smaller EV option aimed at everyday mobility.
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Citroen 2 CV Concept Design Brings Back the Original’s Character
The Citroen 2 CV Concept measures 3.76 metres in length, making it shorter than the original model. Citroen is also targeting a kerb weight below one tonne, with the aim of using a cost-effective battery and delivering a range suited to daily driving. Detailed battery and range figures have not been announced yet.
The exterior takes inspiration from the original 2 CV’s rounded shapes but interprets them through a contemporary design. At the front, the concept features LED headlamps surrounded by semi-circular daytime running light signatures, a closed-off grille carrying the Citroen badge and a bonnet with a distinctive ridge pattern.
A V-shaped bonnet design and a thick silver strip recall details from the classic car. The windscreen also carries the numbers 48, 90 and 26, referring to the original model’s launch in 1948, the end of its production in 1990 and the concept’s unveiling in 2026.
In profile, the curved roofline flows into the rear section, while rounded wheel arches with gloss-black finishes add contrast. The turn indicators are mounted on the C-pillars, giving the concept a distinctive appearance.
Retro Details Continue at the Rear
The Citroen 2 CV Concept gets 18-inch steel wheels inspired by the original 2 CV. Their design is paired with Michelin-branded tyre sidewalls featuring the Citroen chevron pattern.
Michelin has also developed a technology called the ‘universal digital twin of the tyre’. According to Citroen, this system can help the vehicle adapt to its surroundings and continuously monitor tyre condition. The exact technical implementation and availability on the production model have not been confirmed.
At the rear, a black tailgate extends towards the bumper, echoing the older 2 CV’s styling. Three horizontal stripes, a short rear overhang and LED lights positioned on either side of the tailgate add further visual details. Thick silver trim at the rear mirrors the treatment used at the front, while the number plate area references the 2 CV’s international nicknames.
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Citroen 2 CV Concept Interior Gets an Unusual Layout
The cabin is among the Citroen 2 CV Concept most distinctive elements. Citroen has used a white-and-yellow colour scheme, with tartan yellow upholstery on the bench-type seats. The floor, door panels and dashboard area feature fabric finishes with textures inspired by cane basketry.
Rather than using a conventional dashboard and centre console, the concept features a cylindrical structure supporting a single-spoke steering wheel. An 8-inch touchscreen with comic-book-inspired graphics sits alongside toggle switches, while a separate digital driver display is positioned below the windscreen.
Storage has also been approached differently. A removable 3D-printed basket takes the place of a traditional centre console, and straps serve as door handles. The concept additionally features a fabric sunroof and a detachable radio unit called ‘Radioen’, which can also be used as a portable speaker.
Small details add to the playful character of the cabin, including rabbit and tortoise inscriptions on the accelerator and brake pedals. However, these features belong to the concept at this stage, and Citroen has not confirmed which elements will reach the production version.
Citroen 2 CV Concept Powertrain and Range
Citroen has not disclosed detailed technical specifications for the Citroen 2 CV Concept. Battery capacity, motor output, charging speeds and driving range remain unannounced.
The company’s stated direction is to develop an affordable electric hatchback with a battery and range suited to everyday use. The sub-one-tonne weight target is part of that approach, although the final production car’s weight and specifications may differ from the concept.
The planned starting price of 15,000 euros would place the production model in the more affordable end of the European EV market. This is a target announced alongside the concept, rather than a final retail price for every market.
When Will the Citroen 2 CV Electric Hatchback Launch?
The production-spec Citroen 2 CV is expected in 2028. It will sit between the Ami and C3 in the brand’s global portfolio, creating a new entry point for customers seeking a compact electric vehicle.
Citroen has not yet announced whether the production model will come to India. Its expected European price and compact dimensions make it an interesting vehicle to watch, but an India launch, local pricing and market-specific specifications remain unconfirmed.
Auto India Daily Verdict
The Citroen 2 CV Concept is more than a retro styling exercise. Its compact dimensions, proposed sub-one-tonne weight and focus on everyday usability suggest that Citroen is exploring a different approach to affordable electric mobility.
The unusual cabin layout and references to the original 2 CV also give the concept a distinct identity in a market increasingly filled with similar-looking electric hatchbacks.
The key test will be how much of the concept’s character survives in the production car expected in 2028. Battery specifications, real-world range, safety equipment and final pricing will determine whether the revived 2 CV can turn its nostalgic appeal into a genuinely practical electric hatchback.
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Raj Prajapati is a Senior Automotive Content Writer at AutoIndiaDaily. A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering, he leverages over four years of experience covering Indian car and bike launches, EV tech, and market dynamics to break down complex automotive regulations into simple consumer guides. Specialising in Indian motor vehicle laws, IRDAI updates, and ownership costs, Raj translates technical auto policies into actionable advice for everyday drivers.