Historic Fire Engines Steal the Show at Epoqu’Auto 2025 – Urgent Breaking News
Lyon, France – Classic car aficionados and history buffs are buzzing after a remarkable display of vintage firefighter vehicles debuted at the Epoqu’Auto show in Lyon. The exhibition, a collaboration with the Lyon-Rhône Fire Brigade Museum, offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of emergency response technology, attracting significant attention and proving a popular draw for attendees. This is a breaking news story with strong SEO potential, highlighting a unique angle within the classic car world.
From Hand Pumps to High-Tech: A Century of Firefighting Innovation
The exhibition isn’t just about gleaming chrome and polished paint; it’s a journey through time, showcasing the ingenuity and dedication of firefighters over the past century and a half. The collection spans from a humble hand pump dating back to 1855 – aptly named “La Bienvenue” and used in Bois d’Oingt – to more sophisticated motorized vehicles that revolutionized emergency response. This oldest piece of equipment, a testament to early firefighting efforts, stood alongside a 1936 Drouville towable motor pump, illustrating the rapid advancements in the field.
Rare and Remarkable Machines on Display
Among the standout vehicles is a 1923 Delaunay-Belleville MF6, originally a luxury “master’s car” transformed into a fire engine for the Montalieu-Vercieu firefighters in 1932. Only six of these vehicles were ever produced, making this a truly exceptional find. Equally captivating is the Sinpar Castor, a Renault Estafette-based vehicle often compared to the Unimog, equipped with a powerful Guinard pump and a substantial 920-liter water tank. Its rarity – few were ever sold – adds to its allure.
(Image Placeholder: 1923 Delaunay-Belleville MF6 Fire Engine)
Local Pride and Unique Designs
The exhibition also celebrates local manufacturing, featuring vehicles built in and around Lyon. Highlights include a 1910 Vermorel pumper, designed by local industrialist and senator Victor Vermorel, and a selection of Berliet vehicles from various eras. A particularly intriguing piece is a Cournil “VLTT” (All-Terrain Liaison Vehicle) from 1981, demonstrating the ongoing need for robust, off-road capabilities in emergency response. Even a cleverly constructed “fake” vehicle, built on a Citroën B2 chassis for photo opportunities, adds a playful touch to the display.
A Growing Passion: The World of Fire Engine Collecting
While often overlooked, the collecting of firefighter vehicles is a dedicated and growing hobby. Enthusiasts have long sought out miniatures – particularly those produced by Solido – and original vehicles, recognizing their historical significance and unique design. This exhibition at Epoqu’Auto 2025 provides a much-deserved platform for this niche passion, bringing it to a wider audience. The appeal lies not just in the vehicles themselves, but in the stories they tell about communities, innovation, and the bravery of those who serve.
(Image Placeholder: Sinpar Castor Fire Engine)
Beyond the Show: Preserving Firefighting History
The Lyon-Rhône Fire Brigade Museum plays a crucial role in preserving these historical artifacts. The Sinpar Castor on display, for example, was rescued from obscurity in Grignan, Drôme, in 1971 and meticulously restored before finding a home in the museum. This dedication to restoration and preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate the evolution of firefighting technology and the dedication of those who have served.
The Epoqu’Auto 2025 exhibition is a powerful reminder that automotive history extends far beyond sports cars and luxury models. It’s a story of practical innovation, community service, and the enduring human spirit. For those interested in learning more about classic cars, firefighting history, or the Lyon-Rhône Fire Brigade Museum, archyde.com will continue to provide in-depth coverage and insightful analysis. Stay tuned for more breaking news and evergreen content from the world of automotive history.
