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This GMC with Zodiac Firefighters from Solido, reference 3135, represents an intervention vehicle specialized in aquatic rescues. This miniature perfectly captures the spirit of French emergency vehicles, with its characteristic nautical equipment that testifies to the evolution of emergency services.
A remarkable piece for collectors passionate about emergency vehicles and the history of emergency services, this miniature is part of Solido's prestigious tradition of faithful reproduction of utility vehicles.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: GMC with Zodiac
- Brand: GMC
- Version: Firefighters - Water rescue
- Manufacturer: Solido
- Reference: 3135
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Protective case included: Yes
The GMC response vehicle
GMC's specialized water rescue vehicles were developed to meet the growing needs of firefighters in terms of water-based intervention. These robust trucks, equipped with Zodiac inflatable boats, represent the adaptation of rescue forces to the geographical challenges of France, particularly in coastal and river areas.
The design of this type of vehicle met specific technical requirements : the capacity to transport nautical equipment, a rapid launching system, and the autonomy required for emergency response. The GMC chassis offered the robustness and reliability required to support the specialized equipment while maintaining excellent maneuverability.
These vehicles marked a significant development in the organization of rescue services, allowing firefighters to intervene effectively on bodies of water, waterways and flood zones with suitable professional equipment.
GMC: A brand serving utility vehicles
General Motors Corporation developed its GMC division as early as 1912, quickly specializing in utility and commercial vehicles . In the 1960s and 1970s, GMC established itself as a benchmark for rugged chassis for specialized applications, particularly for public and emergency services.
The American brand had successfully adapted to the European market by offering proven technical solutions for emergency vehicles. The mechanical reliability of GMCs and their ability to adapt to specialized equipment made them preferred partners for emergency services, which were looking for robust platforms for their most demanding operations.
A revolution in water rescue
The introduction of Zodiac-equipped vehicles into French fire services revolutionized water rescue in the 1970s. Before this innovation, water rescues required travel to specialized water sports centers, resulting in sometimes critical response times.
This miniature evokes a pivotal era when French emergency services were modernizing their equipment to cope with the increase in recreational water activities. The rise of coastal and river tourism required an adaptation of rescue resources, with vehicles capable of responding quickly with their own boats.
Firefighters used these equipped GMCs during memorable interventions: rescues in flooded areas , searches for missing people in aquatic environments, or even interventions during major floods that have marked the history of France. These vehicles symbolize French ingenuity in adapting rescue resources to the geographical realities of the territory.
The presence of the Zodiac on the vehicle also testifies to French excellence in nautical equipment, this brand having become a world reference for professional and leisure inflatable boats.
Complete your miniature collection
This GMC Pompiers with Zodiac occupies a special place in the world of Solido model cars, fitting perfectly into the collections dedicated to fire engines . It ideally complements the other intervention vehicles and demonstrates the diversity of resources implemented by the emergency services.
Collectors passionate about Solido model cars will appreciate the quality of reproduction and realism of this piece, which harmonizes perfectly with other public service vehicles . This miniature will also appeal to utility vehicle enthusiasts with its unique character and specialized function.
Intended for both knowledgeable collectors and emergency service history enthusiasts, this GMC with Zodiac is an authentic testament to the evolution of French rescue resources and the technical ingenuity of the 1970s.
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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