Citroën Plans to Launch an Electric Car Priced Below €15,000
One of the most iconic cars in automotive history, the Citroën 2CV, is set to return to the European market. After a 36-year production break, the legendary 2CV will make a comeback as a modern electric vehicle — and most importantly, at a price that could bring new momentum to the electric car market.
Originally developed before World War II, the model finally reached the public in October 1948 at the Paris Motor Show after wartime delays. Its target audience and design criteria were extremely clear following extensive market research: French farmers needed an affordable and durable vehicle capable of carrying two farmers along with 50 kg of potatoes or a barrel of wine; the car had to be able to drive across a bumpy field without breaking eggs placed in a basket on the back seat; fuel consumption was required to stay at just 3 liters per 100 kilometers. Between 1948 and 1990, more than five million Citroën 2CV models were sold worldwide.
Now Stellantis has decided to revive this historic heritage by bringing the Citroën 2CV back as a fully electric passenger car, while continuing to emphasize comfort, affordability, and efficiency. Early previews indicate that the exterior design will retain recognizable retro styling elements, combining the classic silhouette with modern electric technology.
The main selling point, however, will be the price, as new electric cars in this price range are currently extremely rare in Europe. Stellantis plans to begin producing entirely new fully electric vehicles from 2028 onward, with prices expected to remain below €15,000 in Europe. Production is planned for Southern Italy. One of the world’s largest automotive groups has emphasized the need to reduce EV production costs to the same level as internal combustion engine vehicles.
According to Margus Ilus, Head of Citroën Baltic, such an electric car could also have a very clear role in the Baltic market.
“In Estonia, the average daily driving distance of a car owner is less than 40 kilometers. This means that the vast majority of us could manage very well in everyday life with a smaller battery electric car that is significantly more affordable and quicker to charge. Since the higher price of electric cars has been one of the main factors holding many buyers back, a car in this price range is definitely welcome on the market and makes entering the world of electric mobility much easier,” said Ilus.
Citroën’s own executives have confirmed that the future 2CV will strongly focus on the core principles of the original 1940s concept. The development team is concentrating on lightweight construction, practical interior space, everyday usability, and a highly distinctive visual identity. The goal is to appeal to buyers who want affordable electric driving and who feel overwhelmed by the increasingly complex technology found in many modern electric vehicles today.
