Here is an exceptional miniature of the Citroën 2CV AZU red and beige on rails, produced by Norev in 1/43 scale. This faithful reproduction perfectly captures the spirit of this unique rail version of the famous Deudeuche, adapted to run on SNCF tracks. A true collector's item that will appeal to both car enthusiasts and fans of French railway heritage.
This miniature reflects a time when French ingenuity allowed for the adaptation of road vehicles to the specific needs of rail transport, thereby creating unique, authentically French versions of our iconic cars.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Citroën 2CV AZU on rails
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1950s-1960s
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Red and beige
- Manufacturer: Norev
- Protective case included: Yes (blister)
Description of the actual model
The Citroën 2CV AZU on rails represents an ingenious adaptation of the famous 2CV AZU van for the specific needs of French rail transport. These hybrid vehicles were developed in the 1950s to allow maintenance teams and SNCF agents to easily move along railway tracks, combining the legendary robustness of the 2CV with the ability to run on rails.
The original model retained all the mechanical characteristics of the 2CV AZU - air-cooled two-cylinder engine, flexible transmission, torsion bar suspension - while being equipped with special wheels that could adapt to the tracks. This versatility allowed the vehicle to switch from road to rail as needed, offering remarkable flexibility to railway teams.
These specialized vehicles enjoyed notable success with SNCF and other railway companies, quickly becoming essential for track inspection, tool transportation, and rapid intervention on the French national rail network.
History of Citroën in the 1950s-1960s
During this period, Citroën was going through a phase of consolidation following the phenomenal success of the 2CV launched in 1948. The chevron brand explored all possibilities offered by its philosophy of popular and robust automobiles, expanding its 2CV into multiple variants to meet the specific needs of different professional sectors.
André Citroën had long understood the importance of technical innovation in service of pragmatism. This approach was perfectly exemplified in these rail adaptations of the 2CV, showcasing the brand's ability to think outside the box and offer creative solutions. The 2CV collection today reflects this remarkable diversity.
The history of Citroën, founded in 1919, was marked by this constant ability to innovate, from the first Citroën to the most specialized adaptations, confirming the avant-garde vision of its founder.
French ingenuity on rails
The story of road vehicles adapted for rail constitutes a little-known but fascinating chapter of the French industry. These "automobile draisines" arose from a practical need: allowing railway teams to move quickly along the tracks without deploying a full locomotive. The 2CV AZU, with its lightness and legendary reliability, proved to be the ideal candidate for this transformation.
These hybrid vehicles fully participated in the golden age of French rail transport of the 1950s-1960s. Railway workers affectionately nicknamed these rail 2CVs "the Deudeuches on tracks", reflecting the popular attachment to these atypical vehicles that quietly flowed between country stations.
The technical adaptation required specific know-how: installation of retractable rail wheels, modification of suspensions to meet railway constraints, and sometimes addition of specific equipment such as pantographs for certain electrified versions. This typically French ingenuity beautifully illustrated the resourcefulness of the time.
Today, these vehicles have become true collector's pieces, symbols of a time when practical innovation took precedence over aesthetic considerations. A few restored examples still participate in heritage railway events, reminding us of that period when 1950s France excelled in the art of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Complete your miniature collection
This Citroën 2CV AZU on rails from Norev holds a special place in the world of automotive and railway miniatures. It perfectly represents this rare category of hybrid vehicles, situated between collection of light utilities and specialized vehicles. Its rarity makes it a choice piece for discerning collectors.
To enrich your collection, this miniature harmoniously pairs with other Norev creations or with various versions of the 2CV range. It also finds its place alongside 1960s miniatures, the peak period for these atypical railway vehicles.
This piece is particularly aimed at collectors passionate about authenticity and originality, as well as fans of French industrial heritage. It also serves as an excellent entry point to discover the little-known world of railway adaptations, showcasing the French ingenuity of a bygone era.
