Electric Cars

Citroën has unveiled an exciting reinterpretation of its beloved classic, the 2CV, at the 2026 Paris Auto Show. This new concept, along with a complementary van version, the 2CV Fourgonnette, marries the original's iconic design with a contemporary electric drivetrain. The automaker aims to introduce a production model by 2028, striving for an eco-friendly vehicle that retains the charm and accessibility of its predecessor. The interior is particularly whimsical, featuring playful, comic book-style graphics and unique design elements that promise a distinctive driving experience.

Citroën's Electric Revival: A Closer Look at the 2CV Concept

At the prestigious Paris Auto Show in 2026, the French automobile manufacturer Citroën captivated audiences with the debut of its electric 2CV concept. This modern tribute revives the spirit of the original 2CV, a vehicle that saw nearly four million units produced over its four-decade run. Far from being a mere nostalgic display, this concept offers a sneak peek at a production model slated for release in 2028.

The aesthetic of the 2CV concept is undeniably endearing. Its silhouette is round and inviting, featuring a cheerful front fascia highlighted by LED arch headlights that seamlessly emerge from prominent fenders. The vehicle's retro charm is further accentuated by a chrome bumper extending from the bodywork and a series of vertically indented lines on the hood. Even the door handles hark back to an earlier era, presenting themselves as delicate metal units rather than the sleek, electronic versions prevalent in today’s vehicles.

Complementing its exterior, the 18-inch steel wheels showcase a deep central dish encircled by an array of slender spokes. Small turn signal indicators are thoughtfully integrated into the C-pillar. The rear of the car features a contrasting black finish against a vibrant orange paint, framed by slender LED taillights.

Inside, the cabin exudes a uniquely French sense of whimsy. The bench seats are reminiscent of stylish deck chairs, adorned with plush yellow plaid cushions. A detachable wicker basket serves as the center console, evoking the feeling of a leisurely picnic. Overhead, miniature lanterns illuminate the edges of the expansive fabric sunroof opening. The door panels maintain a minimalist design, utilizing fabric straps instead of conventional handles.

The dashboard’s simplicity is striking, with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and a slim display at the base of the windshield extending from the steering column. The user interface of these screens is playfully inspired by comic books, featuring hand-drawn graphics for everything from climate controls to the speedometer and navigation system. A detachable sound system, resembling a vintage radio, hangs beneath the dashboard and doubles as a portable speaker.

While the original 2CV was powered by small air-cooled engines, this new iteration is fully electric, though specific details about its powertrain remain undisclosed. Citroën's vision for the new 2CV challenges the trend of increasingly large and heavy cars. Measuring only 148 inches in length, it is slightly longer than a Fiat 500e but noticeably shorter than the original 2CV. The company aims to keep the vehicle's weight below approximately 2200 pounds, enabling the use of a smaller, more cost-effective battery. Citroën anticipates a starting price of around 15,000 Euros for the production model, which translates to approximately $16,700 at current exchange rates.

In addition to the standard 2CV concept, Citroën also introduced the 2CV Fourgonnette concept, transforming the compact city car into a functional van. Echoing the cargo variant of the original 2CV, this electric version features the same charming front end, with a spacious box integrated behind it, complete with roll-up side doors. While specific details for the Fourgonnette were sparse, its introduction suggests a potential future for commercial electric vehicles that blend utility with nostalgic appeal. Regrettably, neither the 2CV nor the Fourgonnette will be available in the United States, leaving enthusiasts to admire these delightful designs from afar.

This innovative revival by Citroën sparks important conversations about the future of automotive design and sustainability. By marrying the nostalgic appeal of a classic with cutting-edge electric technology, the 2CV concept demonstrates a path forward where heritage and innovation can coexist harmoniously. It encourages us to consider how car manufacturers can honor their past while actively contributing to a more sustainable and creatively diverse automotive landscape. The focus on lightweight design and affordability also highlights a shift towards more practical and accessible electric vehicle solutions, reminding us that eco-friendly transportation doesn't have to be out of reach or devoid of character.

Construct Your Legend: The Hakosuka Skyline GT-R Brick Model Arrives!

Unveiling the 'Hakosuka' Brick Model: A Dream for JDM Aficionados

The long-awaited brick model of the KPGC-10 chassis Nissan Skyline GT-R, affectionately known as 'hakosuka' (a portmanteau of 'box' and 'Skyline' in Japanese), is finally here. Car enthusiasts have often yearned for a construction set that captures the distinctive angularity of this classic car, and Mattel's Brick Shop has delivered. The design, with its sharp lines and robust presence, makes it an ideal subject for an interlocking brick recreation.

Detailed Design and Customization for the Discerning Builder

Mattel's new 1:16 scale model comprises 833 precision-engineered pieces, allowing builders to meticulously reconstruct the 'hakosuka'. A standout feature is the ability to customize the vehicle for either a standard road configuration or a high-performance race specification. This versatility enhances the building experience, providing options to tailor the model to individual preferences. Furthermore, the set comes complete with a complementary Hot Wheels die-cast version, offering a miniature replica to accompany the larger brick build.

A Glimpse into the Skyline GT-R's Storied Legacy

For those unfamiliar with the Nissan Skyline GT-R's historical impact, its story began in the 1960s when Nissan acquired Prince Motor Company, a luxury car manufacturer. Engineers from Prince, known for their motorsport passion, were instrumental in developing the GT-R. They famously transplanted a larger sedan engine into a mid-sized chassis, giving birth to the inline-six-powered Skyline 2000GT. This initial success paved the way for the C10 generation, where the 2000 GT-R, first released as a sedan and later as a coupe, dominated Japanese touring car racing, securing an impressive 50 victories by 1972.

Internal Rivalries and Racing Prowess

The 'hakosuka's' legacy is also shaped by the friendly yet fierce rivalry between Nissan's original engineers and those from the former Prince team. The GT-R's potent 2.0-liter inline-six engine was also featured in a rare variant of the contemporary 240Z, known as the Z432. These two models often competed directly, with the ex-Prince team reportedly reserving the most advanced racing components for their Skyline builds, further cementing its competitive edge.

Engaging Features and Future Prospects for Collectors

The new Mattel brick model offers an interactive building experience with features such as functioning doors, an opening hood, and working steering. Authenticity is further enhanced by licensed Yokohama tires. The set includes interchangeable racing wheels, a racing splitter, headlight covers, and even an external oil cooler, allowing for diverse display options. This attention to detail makes the model a compelling offering for collectors and JDM enthusiasts. With its January 2027 release, this product, priced at $59.99, marks a promising start to Mattel Brick Shop's partnership with Nissan, hinting at potential future releases of other classic Japanese models like the Datsun 510 or 240Z.