Citroën 2CV concepts are a lot like London buses this week…
Following the reveal of the electric 2CV Concept, 36 years after production of the original 2CV ended, Citroën has now unveiled the Fourgonette concept.
Of course, this was the more practical 2CV. It was the choice that served generations of tradespeople, shopkeepers and delivery drivers from its creation in 1951 until production ended in 1977. Its unique silhouette, lightness and nimbleness, however, compared to other trade vehicles, have certainly seen its use extend far beyond the end of its production, with over 1.2 million models created in its lifespan. There are undoubtedly plenty still in use today.
Citroën says the 2CV Fourgonnette — the light commercial vehicle version of the 2 CV Concept — retains its “guiding principles”: a focus on the essentials, ingenious design and particular attention to ease of use. It has been designed to be the vehicle to support those who work, run businesses and travel every day.
“It above all possessed something few commercial vehicles have: a soul”
Xavier Chardon – CEO of Citroën and DS Automobiles said: “The 2CV Fourgonnette was more than just a workhorse. It was part of everyday life. Simple, ingenious and accessible, it above all possessed something few commercial vehicles have: a soul. That is the spirit we are bringing back to life today. Because being useful should never mean being ordinary.”
However, unlike the 2CV Concept, there are currently no plans to bring out a future production model. This concept merely acts as a passion project for Citroën’s designers and one which will undeniably evoke plenty of nostalgia.
If this is just Citroën’s way of whetting people’s appetites for the future, then the company is going the correct way about it.
Could you see the Fourgonnette being created in the future? Citroën has said that despite no plans to release the 2CV Fourgonnette, it “opens up new avenues for consideration”. So maybe never say never…?
words: Mike Booth
pictures: Citroën