This Citroën 2 CV Municipal Ambulance in white livery is a remarkable piece for any fan of French automotive miniatures. This faithful reproduction captures the essence of a time when the famous "Deuche" served in various utility functions, particularly in municipal emergency services.
As a genuine collector's item, this miniature showcases French ingenuity and the legendary versatility of the 2CV, transformed here into a first aid vehicle to meet the needs of French municipalities.
Miniature Features
- Model: Citroën 2 CV Municipal Ambulance
- Brand: Citroën
- Color: White with ambulance markings
- Scale: 1/43
- Protective case included: Yes
The real model: a 2CV for public service
The adaptation of the Citroën 2CV into a municipal ambulance represents one of the many utility variations of this iconic model. In the 1950s and 1960s, many French municipalities opted for this economical and practical solution to ensure first aid in their territories.
These ambulance versions retained the characteristic air-cooled two-cylinder engine and the torsion bar suspension of the 2CV while offering rear space configured for the transport of injured persons. The mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance of the 2CV made it a wise choice for tight municipal budgets.
This transformation perfectly aligned with the original philosophy of the 2CV: an accessible, robust, and versatile vehicle capable of adapting to the diverse needs of post-war French society.
Citroën during the 2CV years
During the development and marketing of the 2CV, Citroën was undergoing a renaissance under the leadership of André Citroën and later Pierre Michelin. The company focused on technical innovation and the democratization of the automobile, with the 2CV as the flagship of this strategy.
The brand with the chevrons, founded in 1919, had already distinguished itself with revolutionary innovations such as front-wheel drive and hydraulic suspension. With the 2CV, Citroën continued its tradition of technical boldness by creating a deliberately simple yet revolutionary design. This period also corresponded to the development of our Citroën DS collection, another symbol of French innovation.
The history of Citroën is marked by this ability to anticipate societal needs, whether through the democratization of the automobile or by adapting its models for public services, as evidenced by our ambulance and emergency vehicles.
The ambulance of the French countryside
The use of the 2CV as a municipal ambulance reveals a little-known aspect of the history of French emergency services. In the 1950s and 1960s, many small rural municipalities could not afford real professional ambulances, which were often too expensive and unsuitable for country roads.
The transformation of 2CVs into ambulances was an ingenious and economical solution. These vehicles, affectionately nicknamed "country ambulances," saved many lives in isolated rural areas. Their ability to navigate all types of terrain, even the most difficult, made them valuable allies for first aid.
There is an anecdote that in Brittany, a municipal 2CV ambulance traveled over 300,000 kilometers in service of its municipality, transporting several generations of residents to regional hospitals. This exceptional longevity perfectly illustrates the legendary robustness of the Deuche.
These improvised ambulances became symbols of rural solidarity, representing a time when French ingenuity compensated for limited resources to provide quality public service throughout France, even in the most remote areas.
Complete your miniature collection
This Citroën 2CV Municipal Ambulance holds a special place in the world of French utility vehicle miniatures. It fits perfectly alongside other models from our 2CV collection, offering a comprehensive view of the versatility of this iconic model.
For collectors passionate about public service vehicles, this miniature naturally finds its place alongside our firefighting vehicles and other public service vehicles, reconstructing the complete world of historical French emergency services.
This piece will particularly appeal to fans of authentic French miniatures, collectors specializing in utility vehicles, as well as enthusiasts of French automotive history. It ideally complements any collection dedicated to French automobiles or vintage vehicles, bringing a particularly enriching social and historical dimension.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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