The Citroen 2CV, also known as the “deux chevaux” or “two horses,” was a small, simple, and affordable car that was produced by the French automaker Citroen from 1948 to 1990. It was designed to be a cheap and reliable means of transportation for the masses, and it became an iconic symbol of post-war France.
The 2CV was the brainchild of Citroen engineer Pierre-Jules Boulanger, who set out to create a car that was cheap, practical, and accessible to all. He designed the 2CV to be a no-frills, utilitarian vehicle that could be driven on rough roads and in difficult conditions. To achieve this, he equipped it with a low-powered flat-twin engine, a lightweight body, and a suspension system that was designed to be comfortable over rough terrain.
The 2CV made its debut at the 1948 Paris Motor Show, and it quickly gained a following thanks to its low price, simplicity, and reliability. It was popular with farmers, tradesmen, and urban commuters, and it became a common sight on roads all over France.
Despite its popularity, the 2CV was not without its critics. Some car enthusiasts saw it as a basic, uninspired vehicle, and it was often lampooned for its unconventional looks and minimalist features. However, these criticisms did little to dent the 2CV’s popularity, and it remained in production for over four decades, with over 3.8 million units produced.
The 2CV was also successful outside of France, and it was particularly popular in countries like the UK, Germany, and Italy. It also gained a following in other parts of Europe, as well as in Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
In addition to its practicality and affordability, the 2CV also gained a reputation as a quirky and fun car to drive. It made appearances in numerous movies and TV shows, and it became a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking for a unique and memorable driving experience.
Despite its enduring popularity, Citroen eventually decided to discontinue the 2CV in 1990, citing changing consumer preferences and the increasing cost of production. However, the 2CV remains an enduring symbol of French motoring history, and it is still remembered and revered by car enthusiasts all over the world.