Citroen is preparing to bring back one of its most famous cars, with a modern interpretation of the legendary 2CV expected to reach European showrooms by the end of 2028. It’ll look like this concept, too – although the kitschy and incredibly minimalist interior you see here must be an incredibly long shot to make it into production.

According to our mates at Auto Express, the reborn French icon is being developed around proposed European Union regulations for a new category of affordable small cars, potentially allowing Citroen to offer the electric runabout for as little as €15,000 (approximately $25,000).

6

Rather than simply cashing in on nostalgia, the marque wants the new 2CV to follow the philosophy of the original: simple, practical and cheap motoring for the masses. The interior here certainly gets the simple part right.

Measuring just 3.76 metres long, the concept is actually shorter than its famous predecessor and will sit between Citroen’s tiny Ami quadricycle and the larger e-C3 electric hatchback. The design unmistakably references the original 2CV, with a rounded body, prominent wheelarches, ribbed bonnet and distinctive headlights.

However, Citroen designer Antoine Gaillot-Drevon insists the team wanted to reinterpret the classic rather than produce a straightforward replica. “We didn’t want to do a retro or revival design. We managed to bring it into a modern territory,” he said.

Keeping costs down has influenced almost every aspect of the vehicle. The upright windscreens use relatively simple glass shapes, while exposed bumpers, basic ventilation openings and a retractable fabric roof reduce manufacturing complexity. Even the unpainted black rear section has been designed to save money.

8

The production version is expected to feature conventional wind-down front windows and simple pop-out rear windows, rather than more expensive electric mechanisms. Another unusual feature is the concept’s 18-inch wheels, which Citroen intends to reproduce in steel for the road-going model. Special narrow tyres are being developed with Michelin to provide suitable grip and stability.

Inside, the emphasis is on simplicity and maximising usable space. Instead of a conventional dashboard, the 2CV uses a narrow display beneath the windscreen that projects essential driving information into the driver’s line of sight.

A single-spoke steering wheel references the original car, while a compact electronic display and an unusually positioned gear selector keep the dashboard largely free of clutter. The concept also features colourful upholstery, hanging interior lights and a wicker storage basket between the seats. 

Not every detail is expected to survive production, although Citroen is considering offering some of the more playful elements as accessories. Despite its compact dimensions, the cabin provides reasonable passenger space, while folding rear seats are being investigated to improve luggage capacity. 

8

Citroen has yet to reveal battery capacity, driving range or motor output, but engineers are targeting a kerb weight of approximately 1000kg. That suggests a relatively small battery, helping reduce both purchase price and energy consumption.

The biggest uncertainty remains the proposed EU regulations, which are still being developed and will determine the safety, performance and technical requirements for this new class of vehicle. Nevertheless, Citroen believes the concept is a realistic preview of what customers could buy in 2028.

Whether the reborn 2CV eventually reaches Australia remains unknown, but its combination of distinctive styling and affordable electric motoring could give the French brand a compelling new entry-level model.