Citroen 2CV to Return as Retro Electric Vehicle
Citroen’s classic 2CV could be making a comeback as a retro-styled electric vehicle (EV), according to recent reports. Thierry Koskas, Citroen’s chief executive, has hinted at the possibility, suggesting the company is looking to leverage its rich history.
Koskas indicated that Citroen would release a series of historically inspired cars in the coming years, drawing on its extensive automotive heritage. The 2CV, often affectionately called the “tin snail,” has garnered a devoted following over the years.
“The brand has an incredible history and I think it still appeals to a lot of people,” Koskas stated. He added that the 2CV is recognized globally, noting that “You can go anywhere in the world – even to Brazil – and you will find people who know the 2CV.”
When asked about the potential for an electric 2CV, Koskas reportedly smiled, saying, “We don’t exclude that we will use this heritage.”
Autocar magazine reported in January that Citroen was developing a “successor” to the 2CV design, approximately three decades after its production ended. Previously, the French carmaker had dismissed rumors of a potential revival. The success of its sister brand Renault’s all-electric hatchback, the Renault 5, reportedly spurred the company’s Paris headquarters to reconsider.
A launch could coincide with the 80th anniversary of the original 2CV’s debut at the Paris Motor Show, potentially in 2028.
The original 2CV’s design dates back to the mid-1930s with the Toute Petite Voiture (TPV) concept. The German invasion of France during World War II led to the prototypes being hidden away to prevent the occupying forces from seizing them.
This move mirrors the growing popularity of modern re-launches of retro cars by their original manufacturers. Ford recently announced the return of the Mk.1 Escort, in a deal with Boreham Retroworks. These new Escorts will boast engines with three times the power of the original, with a price tag of £300,000.
Land Rover is also revisiting its classic Defender 90 and 110 models, offering a refurbishment service based on individual customer specifications, priced at £200,000 each.
With the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars set for 2030 under a target introduced by Kemi Badenoch, and now under pressure from car manufacturers including Citroen parent company Stellantis, the industry faces significant changes. Another Stellantis brand, Vauxhall, is closing its century-old Luton factory this year due to the zero-emission vehicle mandate. Meanwhile, BMW, the parent company of Mini, has paused on plans to revamp its Oxford factory to build electric versions of the iconic hatchback.
