An exceptional piece: the 1936 Citroën 2 CV prototype pick-up
This 1:43 scale model car depicts one of the most fascinating vehicles in French automotive history: the 1936 Citroën 2CV pickup prototype. Long before the legendary "Deudeuche" conquered French roads after the war, André Citroën and his team were already working on what would become one of the most iconic cars of the 20th century.
This faithful reproduction is a true historical testament for any collector passionate about French automobiles and industrial history. It captures the essence of an era when French automotive innovation shone throughout the world.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Citroën 2 CV prototype pick-up
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1936
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: According to the period prototype
- Protective case included: Yes
The revolutionary prototype of 1936
In 1936, in the Citroën design offices, a revolutionary project was born: the Très Petite Voiture (TPV) . This prototype pickup truck represented a bold vision: to create an economical, robust, and versatile vehicle capable of motorizing rural France. The idea was simple but brilliant: to offer farmers and craftsmen a modern alternative to the horse-drawn cart.
The specifications were ambitious: consume less than 3 liters per 100 kilometers , carry 50 kg of goods, travel at 50 km/h and cost a third of a Traction Avant. This pick-up version perfectly illustrated the utilitarian vocation of the project, with its rear dump bed capable of accommodating everyday tools.
Unfortunately, the Second World War abruptly interrupted development. The prototypes were hidden or destroyed, and it was not until 1948 that the definitive 2 CV was finally born, faithful to the original spirit but in its saloon version.
Citroën in 1936: innovation in progress
By this time, Citroën was already recognized as a pioneer in automotive innovation . André Citroën had revolutionized the industry with his Ford-inspired production methods, and the chevron brand had just launched the revolutionary Traction Avant in 1934. This front-wheel-drive saloon, with its monocoque structure, represented a major technological advance.
In this context of creative effervescence, the project of an economical popular car fit perfectly with the brand's philosophy: to democratize the automobile. Citroën sought to conquer a new market, that of the middle classes and rural professionals, still largely dependent on traditional means of transport.
This prosperous period for Citroën, despite the financial difficulties that led to its takeover by Michelin, demonstrates an avant-garde industrial vision that will have a lasting impact on the French automobile industry.
The Secret History of the Lost Prototypes
The story of these 1936 prototypes is almost like an industrial espionage novel. When war broke out in 1939, Pierre-Jules Boulanger, director of Citroën, had most of the 250 existing prototypes destroyed to prevent them from falling into the hands of the German occupiers. This drastic decision was intended to prevent French innovations from benefiting the enemy's automobile industry.
A few examples, however, were hidden on Normandy farms , buried in barns or dismantled and hidden. Pierre Boulanger himself discreetly drove one of these prototypes throughout the war, touring occupied France at the wheel of what would later become an automotive legend.
A delightful anecdote tells of a Norman farmer who used one of these prototypes for years to transport his vegetables to market, completely unaware that he was driving the future of the French automobile . It was only in 1994 that one of these surviving prototypes was found in a barn, perfectly preserved under a tarpaulin.
This almost mythological dimension of the 1936 prototype makes it one of the most sought-after vehicles by collectors and automobile museums around the world today. Each recovered example constitutes an invaluable historical treasure.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This model car of the 1936 Citroën 2 CV pick-up prototype occupies a unique place in the world of French model cars . It perfectly complements a collection dedicated to Citroën vehicles or automobiles from the 1930s . Industrial history enthusiasts will find here a valuable testimony to pre-war French innovation.
It blends remarkably well with other iconic models such as the Citroën Traction Avant and the Citroën DS , creating a true timeline of French automotive innovation. Collectors will also enjoy combining it with vintage light commercial vehicles to recreate the professional world of the 1930s.
This piece is aimed at both experienced collectors and automotive history enthusiasts wishing to discover the roots of the popular French automobile. It also makes an excellent starting point for a thematic collection on vintage cars or iconic French automobiles .
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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