Model Car Hotchkiss PL20 yellow and green PERRIER - vehicle of the Tour de France (supporting the riders)
Echelle: 1/43ème
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Discover this Hotchkiss PL20 miniature in Perrier colors, an authentic support vehicle of the Tour de France. This faithful reproduction captures the spirit of the advertising caravans that marked the history of the Grande Boucle, turning the roads of France into a colorful spectacle for decades.
This collector’s miniature represents much more than just a vehicle: it embodies a whole era where French brands supported the giants of the road in their quest for cycling glory.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Hotchkiss PL20
- Brand: Hotchkiss
- Year: 1950s
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Yellow and green Perrier
- Protective case included: Yes
The Hotchkiss PL20, an exceptional utility
Launched in 1951, the Hotchkiss PL20 represented the natural evolution of French utilities in the post-war period. Designed to meet the growing needs of commercial transport, this robust vehicle quickly established itself as the benchmark for demanding professionals.
Powered by a six-cylinder engine delivering respectable power for its time, the PL20 was distinguished by its versatility and legendary reliability. Its spacious body allowed for various configurations according to needs: van, tipper, or specialized vehicle for cycling races.
The commercial success of the PL20 was explained by its perfect adaptation to the demands of the French market, combining mechanical robustness and practical usability in a context of dynamic economic reconstruction.
Hotchkiss, the excellence of French mechanics
Founded in 1867 by Benjamin Berkeley Hotchkiss, the French company Hotchkiss initially distinguished itself in armaments before transitioning to automobiles after World War I. In the 1950s, at the time of creating the PL20, the brand embodied French industrial expertise and its capacity for innovation.
The story of Hotchkiss reflects the remarkable adaptability of the French industry in the face of economic mutations. From manufacturing weapons to producing civilian vehicles, then luxury cars to professional utilities, the brand has managed to evolve with its time while preserving its values of quality and robustness that have forged its international reputation.
The saga of the Perrier caravan
The presence of Perrier on the Tour de France dates back to the 1950s, a period when the sparkling water brand was developing a revolutionary marketing strategy. The vehicles in the green and yellow colors of the famous Nîmes brand crisscrossed the French roads, distributing free bottles to riders and spectators gathered along the route.
This marketing initiative proved particularly relevant: what could be more natural than to associate a refreshing water with the superhuman efforts of cyclists? The Hotchkiss PL20 Perrier thus became the mobile ambassadors of a brand that understood the importance of hydration in sports performance, long before this notion became scientifically proven.
The cultural impact of these vehicles greatly exceeded their commercial function. They participated in creating the festive atmosphere of the Tour, turning each stage into a true popular celebration where sport, commerce, and conviviality mixed harmoniously on the roads of France.
Complete your miniature collection
This Hotchkiss PL20 Perrier miniature naturally finds its place among the vehicles of the Tour de France, alongside other witnesses of the French cycling saga. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to advertising vehicles or exceptional French cars.
Collectors passionate about Hotchkiss miniatures will particularly appreciate this specialized version that illustrates the diversity of applications of the French brand. It harmoniously dialogues with other utilities of the same era, notably the models from Citroën or Renault contemporaries.
This piece will appeal to both cycling history enthusiasts and lovers of French automobiles, offering an authentic testimony of an era when sports and national industry evolved together on the roads of France. It serves as a bridge between two exciting worlds: that of professional cycling and that of French utility vehicles from the Glorious Thirties, enriching any collection with its unique historical and cultural 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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