From Low-Cost to Iconic: The Fascinating History of the Citroën 2CV

2023-06-03 20:05:13

Published on 03/06/2023 22:05

Update on 03/06/2023 22:23

Video length: 4 min.

FRANCE 2

Article written by

A.-C. Roth, M. Lassaga, L. Pekez, D. Breysse, J. Raharison, P.Brame, Drone Sud Toulouse images –

France 2

France Televisions

On Sunday June 4, its only wooden copy could reach the sum of 150,000 euros at an auction. The 2 CV, which saw the light of day in 1948, is still iconic. How did it become cult?

Curves, a silhouette and a noise recognizable among all: the 2CV is almost a national monument. It is the first “low cost” French model, symbol of a certain sweetness of life, which has become a collector’s car. The first presentation took place in 1948, at the Motor Show. The project, born before the war, is intended for the working classes. To target rural customers, Citroën has an argument: according to its specifications, it must be able to transport a basket of eggs across a field without breaking them.

A sweet life

To cut costs, the engineers cut out the superfluous and simplified everything, from the interior to the engine. Henri Lenguin has traveled part of the globe at the wheel of his 2CV. He still uses it daily. “A priori the breakdowns, I am master of my destiny. I can help out. I go to see the first mechanic in the area, with two pieces of wire, a welding clamp, I leave”he confides.

The 2CV is also a certain sweetness of life. After the war, the car, sold for 185,000 old francs (400 euros), brought a wind of freedom. It then becomes the symbol of the hippie years. Even today, she still has many followers.