The Citroën 2CV is set to return as an electric vehicle, with the French automaker offering early glimpses of the revived nameplate ahead of the Paris Motor Show, which opens on October 12.
Citroën Previews the Electric 2CV
With just over a week remaining before the Paris Motor Show, automakers are beginning to tease the vehicles they plan to bring to the event. Citroën has joined in through a series of close-up images posted on its Instagram profile, previewing the return of one of the most recognizable names in automotive history.
The company is preparing to revive the 2CV as an electric vehicle, while maintaining the practical philosophy that defined the original. Rather than simply recreating the classic model’s appearance, Citroën is focusing primarily on affordability and everyday transportation.
The Original 2CV Became a Major Success
Citroën introduced the original 2CV in 1948 with the goal of motorizing rural France using an inexpensive, simple and utilitarian car. The model featured front-wheel drive and a small flat-twin engine with a displacement of just 375 cc and output of up to nine horsepower.
The 2CV went on to become a major success for Citroën, with the automaker selling more than five million units before production ended in 1990.
What the Citroën Teasers Reveal
While the new electric 2CV is designed around the practical purpose of its predecessor, Citroën’s previews suggest that several visual elements will also reference the original model.
The teaser images show a hood design, protruding headlights and rounded bodywork. The upcoming EV also appears to feature retro-style wheels that add another distinctive element to its design.
The vehicle shown in the teasers is orange, although Citroën may introduce additional color options later. More details about the electric 2CV are expected to become clear when the model is presented at the Paris Motor Show later this month.
Citroën is positioning the revived 2CV around affordable electric transportation while incorporating design cues from the historic nameplate, with the full vehicle set to be revealed at the upcoming Paris event.
