The 2CV is one of Citroën’s most iconic cars, renowned worldwide for its distinctive looks and affordable price. Affectionately nicknamed the Duck, the 2CV ended production in 1990 after a 42-year run. Now, it might make a comeback as an electric vehicle.
Autocar, citing an anonymous senior source at the Stellantis-owned brand, reported on Jan. 22 that a modern 2CV powered by batteries is under consideration, and work on a potential design full of retro cues has already begun.
Citroën had previously ruled out a modern 2CV, but interest in recent retro EVs from French rival Renault appears to have persuaded Citroën to reconsider. Renault recently launched the retro-styled 4 crossover and 5 hatchback, and it is now working on a retro design for its next Twingo, which is due in 2026 with a targeted starting price below 20,000 euros (approximately $20,800).
Fellow Stellantis brand Jeep has also promised an electric Renegade for under $25,000. The electric Renegade will likely use Stellantis’ STLA Small platform, designed for subcompact and compact EVs. Any modern 2CV would likely share this platform. Stellantis has previously stated that the STLA Small platform will support EVs with up to 300 miles of range. However, to keep costs down, the modern 2CV would likely feature a smaller battery and a corresponding shorter range.
Citroën 2CV
It’s unclear when a modern 2CV might debut, but a typical four-year development cycle suggests it could be ready by 2028. Coincidentally, that date would mark the 80th anniversary of the original car’s unveiling at the Paris auto show.
Although a modern 2CV is not guaranteed, Citroën has already launched a spiritual successor in the form of the Ami minicar. The Ami, launched in 2020 with a battery capacity of just 5.5 kwh, features some styling cues that link it to the 2CV, both inside and out.
