Citroen is set to reveal a radical concept car at the Paris Motor Show in October, drawing inspiration from its iconic 2CV model. The concept will showcase the brand's vision for an affordable small electric vehicle, according to CEO Xavier Chardon.
Speaking at the Brussels Motor Show, Chardon confirmed that the 2CV is being used as inspiration, but stopped short of confirming a direct revival. 'Are we looking at the 2CV to inspire ourselves? Yes. Why? Because it's an icon of Citroen,' he said.
The new small EV will compete with affordable electric city cars from Volkswagen, Kia, and retro-styled models like the Renault 4 and 5, Fiat 500, and Mini. The European Union's recent incentives for a new small EV class, dubbed M1E, are also expected to boost the project.
Chardon emphasised that the 2CV's essence—affordability, practicality, and innovation—would be reinterpreted for the modern era. 'Today you can replace the farmers with a nurse, integrate elements about CO2 emissions, low consumption, and being affordable,' he explained.
The CEO hinted that more details would emerge at the Paris show, adding that Citroen must leverage its history to stand out against Chinese rivals. 'You have to be bold in design, in concept, if you want to stand out,' he said.
