Electric cars are getting more expensive every year, but Citroën wants to change that with the return of one of its most famous models. The company is preparing a modern electric version of the legendary 2CV, focusing on affordability instead of luxury or extreme performance.
The upcoming EV will target buyers who simply want a practical, low-cost city car that is easy to own and cheap to run.
Citroën Plans A Simpler EV Formula
Instead of building another premium electric crossover packed with expensive technology, Citroën is going in the opposite direction. The new model will focus on:
- Low purchase price
- Compact city-friendly size
- Basic but useful features
- Low running costs
- European production
According to company officials, the goal is to make electric mobility accessible again for everyday buyers.
The expected starting price is below €15,000, which converts to roughly $17,500 before incentives.
Why The Original 2CV Was Important
The original Citroën 2CV became famous after World War II because it offered simple and affordable transportation to ordinary families across France and Europe.
It was never designed as a luxury vehicle. Instead, it focused on practicality, efficiency, and comfort for daily driving.
Now Citroën wants the new EV to follow the same philosophy in the electric era.
What We Know About The New Electric Version
The upcoming model will reportedly enter production in Europe and arrive around 2028.
Early details suggest the EV will include:
- Fully electric powertrain
- Compact hatchback proportions
- Lightweight construction
- Smaller battery pack
- Budget-friendly cabin layout
- Simple controls and features
The vehicle could also become one of the first models developed under Europe’s new compact M1E category for affordable urban cars.
Focus Will Be On Affordability, Not Performance
Unlike modern EVs chasing massive power figures and huge batteries, this project appears focused on efficiency and price control.
Reports suggest the electric 2CV may use:
- Battery size around 20 kWh
- LFP battery chemistry
- Less than 100 horsepower
- Basic interior equipment
- Lower-cost components
Citroën may even skip some premium features in entry-level versions to keep pricing low.
Production Could Use Shared Technology
Stellantis already works with Chinese EV technology partners for future electric projects. Because of this, the new affordable model may use shared platforms, batteries, or components to reduce development costs.
However, the car itself will reportedly be manufactured in Europe.
The upcoming model will compete against several low-cost electric cars expected in the next few years, including:
- Renault Twingo EV
- Dacia budget EV
- Small urban electric hatchbacks from Chinese brands
Citroën hopes its pricing strategy can give it an advantage in Europe’s growing budget EV market.
First Public Reveal Expected Soon
Reports suggest Citroën could preview the car as a concept at the Paris Motor Show later this year, although the final production version may still evolve before launch.
Also read Mercedes unveils high performance EV with over 1100 horsepower
The company appears confident that bringing back an iconic name with a practical electric setup could attract both nostalgic buyers and first-time EV customers.
Many modern EVs continue moving toward the premium segment, leaving budget-conscious buyers with fewer choices.
Citroën’s approach shows that some automakers now see affordable electric transportation as the next major opportunity. If successful, the revived 2CV could become one of the cheapest mainstream EVs built in Europe.

