This miniature red Citroën 2 CV pick-up with FIREFIGHTERS hose reel represents a remarkable adaptation of the iconic French 2CV for firefighting. Produced by Auto-Plus in 1:43 scale, this faithful reproduction captures the essence of an unusual but authentic rescue vehicle from French history.
A prized collector's item, this miniature demonstrates French ingenuity in adapting civilian vehicles to the needs of emergency services, particularly in rural areas where the mechanical simplicity of the 2CV was a major asset.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Citroën 2 CV pick-up with hose reel
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1950s-1970s
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Fire engine red
- Manufacturer: Auto-Plus
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the actual model
The Citroën 2CV pick-up was born from the adaptation of the famous sedan into a light utility vehicle. This transformation, carried out by Citroën in the 1950s, met the needs of craftsmen, farmers, and public services who were looking for an economical and versatile vehicle. The firefighter layout with hose reel represented an ingenious solution for equipping small rural fire stations.
The original vehicle was distinguished by its legendary mechanical simplicity , inherited from the 2CV saloon. Its air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, torsion bar suspension and rustic design made it particularly suitable for operations in difficult conditions. The rear-mounted hose reel allowed for the rapid transport and deployment of fire hoses.
These vehicles have enjoyed notable success with volunteer fire brigades, particularly in rural communities where their ease of maintenance and low operating costs were decisive arguments for often constrained budgets.
Brand Description
In the 1950s and 1960s, Citroën experienced a period of remarkable innovation under the leadership of André Citroën and later Pierre-Jules Boulanger. The chevron brand distinguished itself by its ability to create revolutionary vehicles, both technically and aesthetically. The 2CV, launched in 1948, perfectly embodied this philosophy of accessible innovation.
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, Citroën's history is characterized by a pioneering approach to the automobile. A pioneer of mass production in Europe, André Citroën drew inspiration from American methods while developing a unique technical identity. Citroën model cars today bear witness to this rich history, from the revolutionary Traction Avant to modern models, including the iconic DS and, of course, the 2CV.
The Real Vehicle Anecdote
The use of the Citroën 2CV by firefighters originated in post-war economic necessity. In the 1950s, many rural French communities struggled to equip their volunteer fire departments with expensive specialized vehicles. The 2CV pickup, with its affordable price and legendary reliability, represented an ideal solution.
A famous anecdote tells of a firefighter crew in Brittany equipped with a red 2CV similar to this model car, who managed to extinguish a barn fire in 1963, despite the main pump of the fire truck breaking down. The firefighters had improvised a manual watering system using the 2CV's hose reel and water from a nearby well, saving an entire farm.
The legendary versatility of the 2CV was also evident in car rallies, where specially prepared versions regularly surprised more powerful vehicles. This adaptability explains why the 2CV has become a French cultural symbol, representing French ingenuity and resourcefulness. Citroën 2CV model cars perpetuate this popular memory today.
It is amusing to note that this miniature presents an error on the name of the vehicle written on the base, a peculiarity which paradoxically makes it an object even more sought after by collectors, these "manufacturing errors" often becoming rare and prized pieces in the world of automobile model cars.
Complete your miniature collection
This Citroën 2 CV fire truck occupies a special place in the world of miniature firefighter vehicles. It perfectly complements a collection dedicated to miniature firefighter vehicles or historic Citroën models. Its rarity and unique character make it a sought-after model among specialist collectors.
For fans of French model cars , this model fits perfectly with other utility vehicles of the period, notably Peugeot or Renault model cars from the 1950s and 1960s. It also fits into a thematic collection dedicated to French model cars or light utility vehicles .
This miniature appeals to both experienced collectors and enthusiasts of French automotive history. It is an excellent starting point for discovering the world of service vehicles and demonstrates French ingenuity in adapting civilian vehicles to specific professional needs.
