<<

Who is the founder of automobiles? What was the first produced by Citroën? What is the ‘Citroën Central Asia’ Expedition? What do , Citroën 2 CV, Citroën DS and Citroën Ami 6 have in common? Who invented Citroën Mehari? What is the bestselling car in the ’s history? In 80 questions and answers, a timeline and the description of 10 iconic models, this little book will help you (re)discover Citroën’s fabulous history through iconic models, technical and the people who wrote this unique industrial adventure that has revolutionised the history of the automobile since 1919.

Questions and answers for the centenary of the Brand Price : €6 GRÉGOIRE THONNAT

LE PETIT QUIZZ

Questions and answers for the centenary of the Brand

GRÉGOIRE THONNAT

SUMMARY

Preface 5 Questions and answers 7 A brief timeline of Citroën 89 10 iconic vehicles of the Brand 101 The Citroën brand 123 5 Dear readers,

There is a reason why the Citroën 2 CV is as much a symbol of as the …because we all have a Citroën story to tell! However, do you know the story of Citroën itself? Le Petit Quiz invites you to (re)discover Citroën’s journey from the origin of its logo to its many technological innovations, from legendary to its sporting achievements, and taking a detour through its cult advertising campaigns throughout the years. These 80 questions will help you discover amusing anecdotes and relive Citroën’s history! As the centenary of Citroën approaches, this is the essential tool to ensure you are ‘up to speed’ with one of the most collected car in the world… Linda Jackson, CEO, Citroën Brand

5

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

7 WHO WAS THE FOUNDER OF CITROËN?

André Citroën! Born on 5 February 1878, André graduated from École Polytechnique and then went on to found Engrenages Citroën in 1905, before leading automobiles in 1908. In 1915, while enlisted as an artillery officer, he created a munitions factory. In 1919, he produced the first Citroën automobile and within 10 years, Citroën had become the largest vehicle manufacture in Europe. In 1935, he lost control of the company and died on 3 July 1935 at the age of 57. WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF THE CITROËN LOGO?

André Citroën created his first metalworking company by purchasing the patent for a revolutionary chevron-shaped system – the . From that point on, he made the chevrons his symbol. In 1919, when he launched Citroën automobiles, he kept this symbol. While the logo has evolved over time, the double chevron symbol has remained for 100 years. WHAT WAS THE FIRST VEHICLE PRODUCE BY CITROËN?

Citroën Type A-10 HP. Launched on 4 June 1919, and inspired by the Taylorist approach applied in the by , this very first Citroën, was also the first car to be mass-produced in Europe. This enabled Type A-10 HP to be sold at a much lower price than the competition at the time. A truly landmark event. WHY WAS CITROËN TYPE C–5 HP, RELEASED IN 1922, GIVEN THE NICKNAME ‘PETITE CITRON’?

Because, from launch, this two-seater model was only available in yellow. HOW DID CITROËN CREATE A BUZZ AT THE 1922 MOTOR SHOW ?

André Citroën arranged for an aeroplane to write the name Citroën in the sky. It was a total of 5 km in length across the Parisian skyline. This was marketing that was truly ahead of its time! IN 1922, ANDRÉ CITROËN CREATED SOVAC. WHAT WAS INNOVATIVE ABOUT THIS COMPANY?

It was Europe’s first car finance company. Created by André Citroën, it made it easier for his customers to buy cars on finance at a reduced interest rate. WHAT USEFUL SERVICE DID ANDRÉ CITROËN OFFER TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR DRIVERS TO FIND THEIR WAY AROUND FRANCE IN THE 1920S? From 1922, he offered towns in France road signs, which all included the Citroën logo stamped into the metal. So not only did they provide useful directions, they also increased recognition of the Citroën name. The 100,000th road sign was installed in 1926. WHEN CREATING HIS COMPANY, WHICH VITAL DEVELOPMENTAL TOOL DID ANDRÉ CITROËN IMPLEMENT?

A huge sales and service network. During the first year in business, they numbered 200 outlets. In 1925, this had grown to nearly 5,000. Mission Haart-Audouin dubreuil - Alger tombouctou

BETWEEN DECEMBER 1922 AND FEBRUARY 1923, WHAT DID THE ‘HAART-AUDOIN- DUBREUIL MISSION’ ACHIEVE ON BOARD CITROËN B2 HALF-TRACK?

The first Sahara crossing in a car between Toggourt (Algeria) and Timbuktu (Mali). This daring feat at the time created a stir around the world, which very much benefited the Brand. It was the first example of using an achievement in brand communications. Mission Haart-Audouin dubreuil - Alger tombouctou

FROM THE BEGINNING OF THE 1920S, ANDRÉ CITROËN STARTED TO SELL PRODUCTS, WHICH WOULD PLAY AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN PROMOTING THE BRAND AROUND THE WORLD. WHAT WERE THEY? Toy cars. Each miniature« Mon of the Dieu, original guidez-nous, was released at the same time as the real vehicle. The idea:protégez-nous, that a child’s first words would be nous"Mama, régnons Papa, trop Citroën". jeunes ! » WHAT WAS THE ‘CARAVANE CITROËN’?

From 1923, in order to meet future customers and to promote his dealerships, André Citroën had the idea of launching travelling promotional events. A procession of cars which travelled around France, and then Europe, promoting each of his models. This was the first ever road show. WHICH MAJOR TECHNICAL WAS FEATURED ON THE CITROËN B10, LAUNCHED IN 1924? Citroën B10 was the first European all-steel automobile (stamped and welded sheet metal) for increased stability and safety. Until then, car bodywork was like that of a horse-drawn vehicle, which consisted of steel panels fitted to a wooden frame. WHAT DO THESE NAMES MEAN: SCARABÉE D’OR, ÉLÉPHANT À LA TOUR, SOLEIL EN MARCHE? Along with Escargot Ailé, Croissant d’Argent, Colombe, Centaure and Pégase, these are the names given to the eight Citroën B2 half-tracks which were used on the ‘Citroën Central Africa’ expedition. It was the first successful automotive crossing of the African continent, which took place between 1924 and 1925. These vehicles covered 20,000 kilometres between Algeria, Cape Town (South Africa) and the Indian Ocean. WHICH INNOVATIVE IDEA DID ANDRÉ CITROËN HAVE TO SUPPORT VEHICLE REPAIRS IN 1926?

He created the first service repair manual and parts catalogue. lettres lumineuses

WHICH INNOVATIVE SAFETY FEATURE MADE ITS APPEARANCE AT THE LAUNCH OF CITROËN B14, IN 1926? The light. It wasn’t until the 1950s that it became a requirement of the Highway Code. lettres lumineuses

WHAT PUBLICITY STUNT DID ANDRÉ CITROËN PULL OFF IN 1925?

He wrote his name in lights on the Eiffel Tower, using more than 250,000 bulbs. This impressive and unique advertisement remained in place until 1934. WHICH FEATURES WHICH WERE NORMALLY RESERVED FOR TOP-OF-THE-RANGE VEHICLES WERE FITTED TO CITROËN B14, LAUNCHED IN 1926? A power-assisted braking system which increase braking efficiency by acting on the four wheels, a dashboard with indirect lighting and adjustable front seats. WHICH SOCIAL ADVANCES DID ANDRÉ CITROËN IMPLEMENT FOR HIS EMPLOYEES THAT, AT THE TIME, WERE UNRIVALLED?

Canteens, crèches, healthcare (provided internally) and a ‘cooperative of purchases’, whereby the Brand purchased items in bulk, thus enabling employees to buy their food and clothing at a reduced price. In 1927, he was also the first employer in France to implement a 13th month salary. IN 1926, WHICH EUROPEAN RECORD WAS BROKEN BY CITROËN?

Citroën achieved a record rate of 400 vehicles produced per day thanks to a 30,000 strong workforce and the scientific management approach known as Taylorism. WHICH NEW CITROËN EXPERIENCE DID ANDRE CITROËN OFFER THE PUBLIC DURING THE 1927 ?

Open days at the Javel plant. Hordes of visitors came to explore Citroën’s production line for the first time. At its peak, this 22-hectare site in central Paris, employed up to 30,000 people. FROM 1932, WHICH INNOVATION FITTED TO CITROËN MODELS, HELPED TO MODERNISE THE CAR?

The floating-power . This invention consisted of fitting rubber blocks between the engine and the to absorb vibrations in the passenger compartment. To gain public awareness of this revolutionary new technology, each model equipped with this innovation bore a special Citroën badge depicting a swan floating on water beneath two chevrons. OF THE CITROËN MODELS PRODUCED IN THE 1920S AND 30S, WHAT WAS SPECIAL ABOUT THE BODYWORK OF THE VEHICLES REFERRED TO AS "BOULANGÈRE"? They were commercial vehicles intended for travelling traders. These small vans were fitted with roller curtains to the sides and rear, thus enabling traders to operate their business remotely. IN 1933, WHICH WORLD RECORD WAS SET BY ‘PETITE ROSALIE’?

The world distance record. This simple 8bhp model was equipped with an aerodynamic body enabling it to complete 300,000 kilometres in 134 days at an average of 93kph, around the Linas Montlhéry circuit. WHO MADE THIS STATEMENT: "CITROËN IS GOOD FOR US. THEY PREVENT US FROM FALLING ASLEEP."?

Louis (1877-1944). WHAT IS THE ‘CITROËN CENTRAL ASIA’ EXPEDITION?

This was Citroën’s third great expedition. Travelling between Beirut (Lebanon) and Peking (), between 1931 and 1932, it followed the line of the old Silk Road, including crossing the Himalayas and the Gobi desert. This long-distance race was as much about scientific exploration as it was a mechanical and human feat, a truly epic expedition! AT THE BEGINNING OF THE 1930S, WHERE DID CITROËN SIT IN THE AUTOMOTIVE MARKET?

They were first in Europe and the second largest manufacturer in the world. IN 1934, FOLLOWING FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES, WHICH COMPANY TOOK CONTROL OF CITROËN? . The tyre company from Clermont-Ferrand (France) took over Citroën and presided over the Brand’s destiny until 1976, at which point Michelin sold its shares to to create PSA Peugeot Citroën.

LAUNCHED IN APRIL 1934, WHY WAS CITROËN TRACTION AVANT SEEN AS A REVOLUTION IN THE AUTOMOTIVE MARKET? Never has a standard production car brought together so many innovative solutions: steel chassis, hydraulic , and above all a front-wheel drive engine. Enabling Traction Avant to be lower and lighter, and it benefitted from handling which was way ahead of its time (in terms of manoeuvrability, road holding). Citroën Traction Avant led the way for the modern automobile. WHAT WAS THE BRIEF FOR THE TPV (TOUTE PETITE VOITURE) PROJECT, THE FUTURE CITROËN 2 CV, GIVEN TO CITROËN ENGINEERS IN 1936? A vehicle capable of transporting four passengers, with a 50 kg payload and should consume no more than 3 to 4 litres per 100 km. Its suspension should also allow a basket of eggs to be driven across a field without breaking one. WHAT IS CITROËN ‘TUB’?

It is a light van, launched in 1939, whose name is an abbreviation of Traction Utilitaire Basse. It was the first front-wheel drive van, and thanks for a low floor which allowed you to stand up inside, it was hugely practical. It also had a forward set cab and side sliding door. Its production run was limited by the war, reaching no more than 2,000 units. Citroën TUB was the predecessor to Citroën Type H launched after the war, often called itself, incorrectly, TUB. WHICH LEGENDARY LIGHT VAN, RECOGNISED FOR ITS CORRUGATED SHEETING, WOULD BE WIDELY KNOWN AS THE ‘PANIER À SALADE’ (SALAD SHAKER) IN ITS POLICE VAN VERSION? Citroën Type H. Unveiled at the 1947 Paris Motor Show, and with more than 490,000 models produced up to 1981, Citroën Type H remains an essential symbol for travelling traders and for the national police. Today it is on trend once again, particu- larly with the conversion of many models into food trucks. HOW MANY YEARS DID THE CAREER OF CITROËN TRACTION AVANT LAST?

23 years, with 759,123 models produced between 1934 and 1957. The longest running production in the world at the time! WHAT DO CITROËN TRACTION AVANT, CITROËN 2 CV, CITROËN DS AND CITROËN AMI 6 HAVE IN COMMON? Their designer: (1903-1964), Brand design office director. He designed these four models, which are amongst the most iconic, not only for the Brand, but also in the history of the automobile. WHY WAS THE BONNET OF CITROËN 2 CV MADE OF CORRUGATED SHEET METAL, LATER MOVING TO RIBBED SHEET METAL? This process came from the aeronautical industry, making it possible to use lighter panels while retaining their rigidity. Citroën Type H also had this process applied to its bodywork. WHICH RECORD SALES FIGURES DID CITROËN DS ACHIEVE DURING ITS REVEAL AT THE 1955 PARIS MOTOR SHOW?

It saw immediate success with 12,000 orders on the first day, reaching 80,000 signed orders by the time the 1955 Paris Motor Show had ended! HOW DID CITROËN DS REVOLUTIONISE THE AUTOMOTIVE WORLD AND MAKE OTHER CARS OF THE TIME LOOK OUT OF DATE?

Its bold silhouette was a first, with very large windows, an aluminium bonnet, fiberglass roof, roof height indicators and no front grille. Hydropneumatic suspension, power , disc brakes and a semi-automatic gearbox all helped Citroën DS to set new standards in ride quality, handling and braking. The interior was equally revolutionary with a single spoke steering wheel giving clear visibility of its refined dashboard. "I THINK THAT CARS TODAY ARE ALMOST THE EXACT EQUIVALENT OF THE GREAT GOTHIC CATHEDRALS" - WHICH CAR INSPIRED THESE WORDS FROM ROLAND BARTHES? Citroën DS. In his book Mythologies (1957), the philosopher and semiotician writes a long eulogy about Citroën DS, which he considers to be a legendary object of the modern world, emphasising that “smoothness is always a characteristic of perfection”. WHY WAS CITROËN AMI 6 DESIGNED WITH A REVERSE-RAKED REAR WINDSCREEN ? To meet the design brief, which stated that the car should be very spacious and have a traditional boot without exceeding 4m in length. The designer Flaminio Bertoni adopted an original solution - the reverse-raked rear windscreen. This also gave the vehicle a dynamic silhouette. WHAT WAS THE STARTING POINT FOR ’S ATTACHMENT TO THE CITROËN BRAND?

After the Appeal of 18 June, the director of Citroën’s factory in went to see de Gaulle to tell him, in essence: "General, I do not want to see a French Ge- neral travelling in an English car. Therefore, I am offering you a Traction Avant.". The general used it during the war, and subsequently, he remained faithful to the Citroën brand. WHICH CAR ENABLED CHARLES DE GAULLE TO SURVIVE THE ATTACK IN PETIT-CLAMART ON 22 AUGUST 1962?

His presidential Citroën DS 19. Riddled with a dozen bullets and two punctured tyres, the car, thanks to its hydropneumatic suspension and its automatic , it was able to remain on course and pick up speed, allowing the presidential couple to escape the terrorists. IN WHICH YEAR DID THE ANNUAL VEHICLE PRODUCTION RATE REACH 500,000 UNITS?

In 1966, with 531,133 vehicles produced. IN WHICH HUGELY SUCCESSFUL FRENCH CINEMA HIT DO YOU SEE THE CULT SCENE WHERE A CITROËN COMPLETELY FALLS APART FOLLOWING AN ACCIDENT?

Le Corniaud. In this 1966 film from Gérard Oury. It happens after a Citroën 2 CV driven by Antoine Maréchal (Bourvil) collides with the car driven by Léopold Saroyan (Louis de Funès). The one liner response is just as iconic: "It isn’t going to go as well now, surely!" DS de nuit

IN 1967, WHAT WAS THE FIRST PRODUCTION VEHICLE TO RECEIVE HEADLIGHTS WHICH SWIVEL WHEN CORNERING? Citroën DS. Ingenious and yet the system couldn’t be simpler: connected by cables, it allowed the main beam headlights to swivel depending on the direction of the wheels, enabling the car to light around bends in the road! DS de nuit

AT THE END OF THE , CITROËN WORKED WITH THE ITALIAN CAR MANUFACTURER TO PRODUCE A POWERFUL PRESTIGE CAR. WHAT WAS IT CALLED? Citroën SM. Between 1970 and 1975, 12,920 units of this Gran Turismo coupé were manufactured. , then President of the Republic, was a big fan of the car, ordering two special edition models. WHICH LEGENDARY CABRIOLET FEATURES IN THE CULT SERIES "THE TROOPS OF ST. TROPEZ" WITH LOUIS DE FUNÈS?

Citroën Méhari. The episode “The Gendarme and the Extra-Terrestrials” includes the cult scene where Staff Sergeant Cruchot (Louis de Funès) says "pass me the steering wheel" to Sergeant Major Gerber () who then literally hands the wheel to Gerber! CITROËN LAUNCHED CITROËN MÉHARI IN MAY 1968. WHAT IS ITS MAIN SPECIAL FEATURE?

It was the first standard French car with a body made entirely of ABS plastic. Light and strong, this material, which was coloured during production, is both resistant to scratches and corrosion. Making Citroën Méhari the ideal seaside companion. CITROËN DS HAD A RICH CINEMA CAREER, IN THE FILM “FANTÔMAS SE DÉCHAÎNE” THE CAR IS TRANSFORMED. INTO WHAT?

Citroën DS unbelievably transforms into a jet plane, complete with retractable wings. This allowed Fantômas to escape in the film. A transformation that was a first for cinema and the car! WHAT DID DRIVERS OF THE FIRST CITROËN GS, LAUNCHED IN 1970, FIND ON THEIR DASHBOARD?

The famous rotating drum speedometer which the driver viewed through a magnifying lens. This aesthetic innovation, which had already been tested on pre-war models, was also fitted to a number of other models, such as the Citroën CX and first Citroën BX vehicles. WHAT DOES CX REFER TO IN THE MODEL NAME CITROËN CX, LAUNCHED IN 1974?

Cx refers to the aerodynamic coefficient in French, or drag coefficient (Cd) in English. Citroën CX, with its smooth front end and its concave rear screen was extremely aerodynamic. WHAT WAS ONE OF THE MOST SURPRISING MODELS DEVELOPED BY CITROËN DURING THE SEVENTIES? A . This two-seater model was fitted with a rotary piston engine, until production of this engine ceased which put an end to the project. IN ORDER TO REVIVE CITROËN 2 CV SALES, IN 1976, THE BRAND LAUNCHED CITROËN 2 CV SPOT. WHAT MADE THIS IDEA INNOVATIVE? It was the first limited edition car to be launched in France. REFERRING TO THE ADVERTISING SLOGAN “THE VISA, IT MESSES UP YOUR HAIR”, WHAT ACCESSORY WAS INCLUDED WITH EVERY CITROËN VISA PURCHASED? A hair comb! IN 1981, WHICH OF THE BRAND’S ICONIC MODELS STARRED ALONGSIDE JAMES BOND IN THE FILM "FOR YOUR EYES ONLY"?

Citroën 2 CV. One of the three cars used during filming is now on show at the Conservatoire Citroën. A limited edition Citroën 2 CV 007 was launched to coincide with the film release in France. DO YOU KNOW ORIGINS OF CITROËN C15 NAME, GIVEN TO CITROËN VISA BASED UTILITY VEHICLE LAUNCHED IN 1984?

It refers to its 1.5 tonne gross vehicle weight (GVW). 1,200,000 Citroen C15 were sold, and it was still being produced up until 2006. WHICH PUBLICITY STUNT DID THE ADMAN JACQUES SÉGUÉLA ACHIEVE TO CREATE THE PROMOTIONAL FILM FOR CITROËN VISA GTI IN 1984? The spectacular launching of a car without special effects, from the French aircraft carrier Clémenceau, shortly before reappearing on the bridge of a submarine. CITROËN 2 CV ACQUIRED MANY NICKNAMES DURING ITS LONG INTERNATIONAL CAREER. DO YOU KNOW THE MAIN ONES? Deuche, deudeuche, dodoche, deux pattes (two legs), deux lapins (two rabbits), deux piques (two sticks) deux poils (two hair) in , tin snail in the UK, ente (duck) in , pincha pincha in Portugal, dos caballos in Spain, lelïjke eendje (ugly duckling) in the , bicilindri or due cavalli in , rattisitkka (rag) because of its canvas roof in Finland. WHICH KEY CHANGE WAS LAUNCHED USING THE BRAND CAMPAIGN THE “CHEVRONS SAUVAGES" IN 1985?

The new visual identity of the Brand. Moving away from yellow and blue, it turned to red and white. WHAT TOOK PLACE, WHICH WAS ALSO A NOD TO THE ‘CENTRAL ASIA’ EXPEDITION, AS PART OF CITROËN AX LAUNCH IN 1986?

Driving this new model on the Great Wall of China for the duration of a TV advertisement - “Revolutionary!”. Incidentally, the mannequin seated at the vehicle's steering wheel did not know how to drive! WHEN IT WAS LAUNCHED IN 1989, CITROËN XM WAS THE FIRST CAR IN THE WORLD TO BE FITTED WITH WHICH TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION? Hydractive suspension. For the first time, a production vehicle is fitted with a suspension system that combined electronic intelligence with hydraulic comfort. ON 27 JULY 1990, WHAT WAS SEEN EXITING THE ASSEMBLY LINE OF THE MANGUALDE FACTORY IN PORTUGAL?

The last Citroën 2 CV. A grey and black Charleston. ludospace

WHICH INNOVATION WAS FEATURED ON THE CITROËN ZX WHEN IT WAS LAUNCHED IN 1991?

A self-steering rear axle, which worked wonders to improve vehicle traction. ludospace

LAUNCHED IN 1996, WHAT WERE THE TWO MAIN INNOVATIONS OF CITROËN BERLINGO?

It was the first commercial van with an integrated load volume, and launched the idea of a leisure activity vehicle with its Multispace version. Claudia Schi er

DURING THE LAUNCH CAMPAIGN FOR CITROËN XSARA IN 1997, WHICH WELL-KNOWN CELEBRITY DID THE BRAND USE TO CREATE AN ADVERTISEMENT CAMPAIGN WITH IMPACT? The international model Claudia Schiffer. She took part in a crash test on camera to demonstrate the car’s exceptional safety level. Claudia Schi er

IN WHICH YEAR DID THE ANNUAL VEHICLE SALES RATE EXCEED THE SYMBOLIC NUMBER OF ONE MILLION?

In 1999. c3 pluriel c3

WHICH ORIGINAL MODEL FROM THE BRAND LAUNCHED IN 2003 WAS USED AS THE BASIS FOR THE FOLLOWING UNPRECEDENTED RANGE OF CONFIGURATIONS: , CABRIOLET, FOUR-SEATER SPIDER AND PICK-UP?

Citroën C3 Pluriel. c3 pluriel c3

FOR THE LAUNCH OF CITROËN C6 IN 2005, CITROËN WAS THE FIRST FRENCH AUTOMOTIVE BRAND TO OFFER AN INNOVATIVE FEATURE TO IMPROVE SAFETY. WHAT WAS IT CALLED? The head up display. From the aeronautical world, this feature allows the driver to see key information such as speed and satellite navigation directions without having to take their eyes off the road. DO YOU KNOW WHICH OF THE CONCEPT CARS DEVELOPED BY THE BRAND WAS THE STARTING POINT FOR GT BY CITROËN? Released in December 2007, GT by Citroën was initially created virtually for the PlayStation racing simulator Gran Turismo. Citroën then went on to build a full-scale version, this was then presented at the . DO YOU KNOW CITROËN'S SPORTING RECORD, ALL COMPETITIONS COMBINED, OVER THE COURSE OF LAST THREE DECADES? Citroën has won 16 manufacturer titles and supported 12 driver titles (WRC and WTCC combined). In addition to these accolades, two records have also been accorded to the Brand: 99 victories in WRC and 38 consecutive podiums between Rally in 2008 and Rally GB in 2010. DO YOU KNOW WHICH EVENT HAS BROUGHT TOGETHER THE LARGEST NUMBER OF CITROËN OWNERS TO DATE? The 2 CV World Meeting (international event) in Salbris (Loir-et-Cher) in 2011 with more than 7,000 2 CV vehicles and derivatives. With so many iconic models, including Citroën Traction Avant, Citroën 2 CV and Citroën DS, it is no wonder Citroën has one of the largest number of collectors around the world. DO YOU KNOW WHY THE 5 FEBRUARY WAS CHOSEN TO LAUNCH CITROËN C4 CACTUS IN 2014?

As it’s André Citroën’s birthday (5 February 1878). WHICH PRODUCT LINE, LAUNCHED BY CITROËN IN 2010, BECAME A BRAND IN ITS OWN RIGHT IN JUNE 2014?

The DS product line. In 2010, Citroën DS3 launched the distinctive Citroën line. Citroën DS4 and Citroën DS5 then followed in 2011. Following its success, this striking product line was liberated from Citroën in June 2014 to become the premium Brand of the PSA Group. CITROËN IS PRESENT ACROSS 5 CONTINENTS, BUT DO YOU KNOW IN HOW MANY COUNTRIES?

In nearly 90 countries. MANY FRENCH AND INTERNATIONAL PERSONALITIES HAVE WORKED WITH CITROËN IN RECENT YEARS. WHO? Alain Bashung, Julien Clerc, Sean Connery, Cindy Crawford, Jacques Dutronc, Jean-Pierre Foucault, Françoise Hardy, Grace Jones, Carl Lewis, Guy Roux, Claudia Schiffer. CITROËN HAS A SPECIAL LINK WITH THE FRENCH PRESIDENCY. WHEN DOES THIS LINK GO BACK TO?

It goes back to René Coty, the final President of the Fourth Republic from 1954 to 1958, who chose Citroën Traction Avant 15-6 with hydropneumatic suspension as his official car. Since then, many models have been included within the Elysée car fleet: DS 19, DS 21, SM, CX prestige, XM, C6, etc. WHICH INNOVATION, BASED ON CITROËN COMFORT DNA, WAS LAUNCHED IN 2017?

As part of the Citroën Advanced Comfort programme, Citroën introduced a suspension system with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions®. This technology, which has been the subject of 20 patent applications, recreates the ‘magic carpet’ effect, which is characteristically well linked with the Citroën brand. This technology improves passenger comfort and is currently available on New Citroën C4 Cactus Hatch and New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV. HOW MUCH WAS A CITROËN 2 CV SOLD FOR AT AUCTION IN 2018? 75,600 euros, this is the price paid at auction in Fontainebleau for a very rare 2 CV. It was a standard hatchback model manufactured in 1949, the car’s first year of production. Only 878 units were produced. WHICH TUBE STATION IN PARIS INCLUDES A DISPLAY ABOUT THE HISTORY OF CITROËN? Javel - André Citroën station (serving line 10). Which was refreshed in 2018 to include informative signs, photographic displays and touch screens dedicated to the virtual museum - Citroën Origins. Here you can soak up the history of the Brand since its birth in 1919. HOW MANY PERSONALISATION COMBINATIONS ARE POSSIBLE ON CITROËN C3 AIRCROSS COMPACT SUV? 90 combinations are possible. WHAT IS THE BESTSELLING CITROËN IN ITS HISTORY? Citroën 2 CV. From 1948 to 1990, more than 5,100,000 vehicles (including 1,200,000 vans) were manufactured. WHICH MODEL IN THE CURRENT RANGE HAS THE HIGHEST SALES ACROSS FRANCE, EUROPE AND THE WORLD? Citroën C3.

A BRIEF TIMELINE OF CITROËN

89 André Citroën André Citroën takes over is born on the leadership of Production rate reaches 5th February in Paris Mors automobiles 300 vehicles per day 1878 1908 1924

1905 1919 1924-1925 Creation of the First car launch: Citroën embarks on a company Engrenages Citroën Type A – 10 HP Central Africa expedition: Citroën Colomb-Béchar – Cape Town – Antananarivo

90 91 Citroën’s embarks Sales network Bumpers and windows on a Central Asia reaches with safety glass are fitted expedition: 5,000 outlets as standard Beirut - Peking 1925 1929 1931-1932

1925 1931 Citroën uses the Eiffel Launch of Citroën’s Tower as an advertising first bus, Type C6 G1, medium with 22 seats

91 "Petite Rosalie", with 8bhp, records Launch of the TUB a new world distance André Citroën (Transport Utilitaire série record - 300,000km dies on 3rd July B) van 1933 1935 1939

1932 1934 1936 First floating-power Launch of the Citroën Launch of the TPV (Toute fitted to the Traction Avant, Citroën Petite Voiture) project, Brand’s models is taken over by Michelin the future Citroën 2 CV

92 93 Annual production falls from 70,000 Unveiling of Launch of to 2,300 vehicles Citroën 2 CV Citroën 2 CV van 1939-1944 1948 1951

1939 1947 1950 TPV launch cancelled Unveiling of Citroën Citroën’s CEO due to the war Type H van Pierre Boulanger dies

93 Annual production exceeds 100,000 vehicles once again (level previously Unveiling of Citroën Traction Avant achieved in 1929) Citroën DS 19 production ends 1951 1955 1957

1953 1957 1961 Launch of Citroën Annual European launch Type 55 commercial production exceeds of Citroën Ami 6 vehicle 200,000 vehicles

94 95 Annual The historic Javel plant (Paris 15th production exceeds Launch of Arrondissement) closes, launch of 500,000 vehicles Citroën Méhari Citroën CX and Citroën C35 van 1966 1968 1974

1961 1967 1970 1975 European launch Launch of Launch of Citroën SM Citroën DS of Citroën Ami 6 Citroën Dyane and Citroën GS, voted and Citroën SM European Car of production ends the Year 1971

95 Citroën and Peugeot merge to form PSA Launch of Launch of Peugeot Citroën Citroën C25 van Citroën C15 small van 1976 1981 1984

1978 1982 1986 Launch of Citroën Launch of Launch of Visa and Citroën Citroën BX Citroën AX LNA

96 97 Launch of Citroën XM, Launch of Citroën ZX, voted European Car Citroën ZX Rally Raid Launch of Citroën Evasion of the Year 1990 wins the Paris-Dakar MPV and Relay van 1989 1991 1994

1990 1993 1995 Citroën 2 CV Launch of Citroën Launch of Citroën AX production ends Xantia, voted most Electric and Dispatch beautiful car of 1994 van

97 Annual production exceeds one million Launch of Citroën Saxo vehicles, launch of Launch of Citroën C3 and Berlingo MPV the Citroën Xsara Picasso Pluriel 1996 1999 2003

1997 2001 2003 Launch Opening of the Conservatoire Citroën wins of Citroën Citroën, launch of Citroën the World Rally Xsara C5 and Citroën C3 Championship

98 99 Launch of Launch of New visual identity, Citroën Launch of New Citroën Citroën C4 creation of DS line E-Méhari C5 Aircross SUV 2004 2009 2016 2018

2005 2014 2017 Launch of Launch of Citroën C4 Launch of Citroën C3 Citroën C6 Cactus, launch premium Aircross Compact SUV brand DS Automobiles

99

10 ICONIC VEHICLES OF THE BRAND

101 CITROËN TYPE A–10 HP

On sale from 4th June 1919, it was the first car launched by Citroën. It was immediately available in a range of models: Torpedo, Coupé, Conduite Intérieure. It was the first European automobile to be mass-produced using Taylorist methods. It was also the first car on the market to be delivered to the customer fully fitted out; in particular, it included an electric starter motor as standard. On sale between 1919 and 1921, more than 24,000 vehicles were produced. The Citroën adventure begins!

102 103 103 CITROËN TRACTION AVANT

When launched in 1934, the revolutionary Citroën Traction Avant combined a number of innovations including front-wheel drive and a monocoque chassis, enabling the vehicle to have a lower centre of gravity, light bodywork and an aerodynamic design. Thanks to these innovations, Citroën Traction Avant was an extremely manoeuvrable vehicle enabling excellent road holding. You also didn’t get up into the car, you got down into the passenger compartment. This iconic vehicle led the way for the modern automobile you see today. On sale between 1934 and 1957 (a record lifespan at the time), just short of 760,000 units were manufactured.

104 105 105 CITROËN TYPE H

Launched in 1947 and based on the Citroën TUB, Citroën Type H included innovations such as a sliding side door, low loading sill and an interior height that allowed you to stand up inside. Both strong and practical, it had a 1,200kg payload, which made it the essential vehicle for travelling traders and the authorities, including the Police with their famous “panier à salade” (salad shaker). Today it is on trend once again, particularly with many becoming converted food trucks. On sale between 1948 and 1981, more than 490,000 models were produced.

106 107 107 CITROËN 2 CV

Launched in 1948, Citroën 2 CV made a myriad of ingenious technologies accessible to the masses, such as front-wheel drive, smooth suspension and an air cooled two cylinder engine. A car for the people, it became a true social phenomenon. It is now one of the icons of automotive history and attracts a huge number of collectors from around the world. Over 41 years of sales (1949-1990), more than 5,115,000 models were produced ( and vans combined).

108 109 109 CITROËN DS

When launched in 1955, Citroën DS was reminiscent of a UFO with an unprecedented raindrop-shaped futuristic design, very large windows, a fibreglass roof and roof height indicators. Its innovative features brought together the new techniques of the time such as hydropneumatic suspension, disc brakes and a semi-automatic gearbox. With 12,000 vehicles sold on the day it was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, it was immensely successful. During its 20-year lifespan, just short of 1,500,000 models were produced. Today Citroën DS is one of the iconic models in automotive history.

110 111 111 CITROËN MÉHARI

Launched in May 1968, this car was a leisure vehicle completely ahead of its time. Constructed on Citroën Dyane 6 platform, Citroën Méhari broke with traditional cabriolet rules with its unpretentious utilitarian looks. Versatile, practical and economical, its ingenious, ABS plastic body made sure that it stood out as well as making it very light (525kg), resistant to corrosion and washable with a water jet. Today it is a seaside icon. On sale until 1987, nearly 145,000 vehicles were produced.

112 113 113 CITROËN SM

Unveiled in 1970, this Gran Turismo coupé surprised the market with its aerodynamic lines and advance technical innovations. This prestige car, powered by a Maserati V6, won over President Georges Pompidou and two Citroën SMs (modified by the converter ) became the official vehicles of the President of the Republic. The and a number of internal difficulties put a premature end to its commercial career, with production stopping in 1975. 12,920 vehicles were produced. Today, the Citroën SM is highly sought after by collectors.

114 115 115 CITROËN CX

Unveiled in 1974, this top-of-the-range hatchback replaced Citroën DS. Its fluid lines and surprising concave rear windscreen created a distinctive profile. The interior style also set it apart with many innovations, such as the dashboard with its famous “lunule”. This did away with usual steering column stalks and allowed the driver to access all of the controls without taking their hands off the steering wheel. Voted car of the year in 1975, Citroën CX had a successful commercial career, which ended in 1991 with more than 1,100,000 vehicles produced.

116 117 117 CITROËN XSARA PICASSO

Launched in 1999, Citroën Xsara Picasso was Citroën’s first compact MPV. This entirely new vehicle stood out because of its innovative egg shape, large windows and symmetrical, uncluttered dashboard. It delivered exceptional, generous passenger compartment space, particularly with its three full-size rear seats. It was an unquestionable commercial success, enabling production to continue from 1999 to 2010 with more than 1,700.000 vehicles produced.

118 119 119 CITROËN C4 CACTUS

Launched on 5th February 2014, André Citroën’s birthday. Citroën C4 Cactus derives its name from the Cactus plant, as just like the plant, Citroën C4 Cactus consumes little fuel. It features many exclusive technological innovations such as the passenger airbag housed in the roof, ‘Magic Wash’ wiper system and a panoramic roof with high-levels of thermal protection removing the need for a roof blind. It was the first standard vehicle to feature the exterior protective system Airbumps®, designed to protect the vehicle from damage. Citroën C4 Cactus has won around 30 accolades, rewarding its innovative features.

120 121 121

THE CITROËN BRAND

123 An international automotive Brand at the heart of the generalist market, Citroën has been bold and creative since 1919. Design that stands out, creators of well-being through their level of comfort and range of technologies, Citroën is a breath of fresh air in the automotive landscape, as seen through New Citroën C4 Cactus hatchback and New Citroën C5 Aircross SUV. A Brand for the people, Citroën makes people and their lifestyles its first source of inspiration. A spirit embodied in its Brand

124 125 signature “Inspired by you” and brought to life through its unique customer experience, particularly with its city store "La Maison Citroën" concept, its ‘Citroën Advisor’ online review website and its "Citroën Rent&Service" transport solution department. Citroën is more than 5,000 dealerships and after sales outlets across nearly 90 countries and 1,100,000 vehicles were sold in 2017. It is also 8 world constructor championship titles in WRC and 3 consecutive world constructor championship titles in WTCC.

125 Design and production: Grégoire Thonnat - "Vu dans les média" Agency for CITROËN Automobiles Reproduction, even in part, is prohibited without prior authorisation. Head office 7 rue Henri Sainte-Claire Deville ISBN : 979-10-95995-02-9 92500 Rueil-Malmaison November 2018. Telephone : 01 55 94 81 00 www.lifestyle.citroen.com Printed in the EU by Altavia Paris

Artistic direction : Elvire Thonnat Model maker: Clément Tremblot, proofreading: Claire Gourié Citroën proofreading: Denis Huille, Paul Mahouin Translation: Patricia Cano Design and production: Grégoire Thonnat - "Vu dans les média" Agency for CITROËN Automobiles Reproduction, even in part, is prohibited without prior authorisation. Head office 7 rue Henri Sainte-Claire Deville ISBN : 979-10-95995-02-9 92500 Rueil-Malmaison November 2018. Telephone : 01 55 94 81 00 www.lifestyle.citroen.com Printed in the EU by Altavia Paris

Artistic direction : Elvire Thonnat Model maker: Clément Tremblot, proofreading: Claire Gourié Citroën proofreading: Denis Huille, Paul Mahouin Translation: Patricia Cano

Who is the founder of Citroën automobiles? What was the first car produced by Citroën? What is the ‘Citroën Central Asia’ Expedition? What do Citroën Traction Avant, Citroën 2 CV, Citroën DS and Citroën Ami 6 have in common? Who invented Citroën Mehari? What is the bestselling car in the Brand’s history? In 80 questions and answers, a timeline and the description of 10 iconic models, this little book will help you (re)discover Citroën’s fabulous history through iconic models, technical innovations and the people who wrote this unique industrial adventure that has revolutionised the history of the automobile since 1919.

Questions and answers for the centenary of the Brand Price : €6 GRÉGOIRE THONNAT