‘Amis de la 2CV’ gathering later this month

A record-breaking global gathering of Citroën 2CVs is set to take place from July 26-31 at the 19th International 'Amis de la 2CV', so we thought it was a good opportunity to showcase the now legendary model designed by Flaminio Bertoni.

The biennial event is expected to attract over 6,000 examples of the iconic model, with participants from all over the world coming together to celebrate one of Citroën's biggest success stories. The 2011 event, involving many of Europe's 2CV owner's clubs, promises to be the biggest yet.

In the setting of a 60-hectare site near Salbris in Central France, four pre-war prototype 2CVs will be on show alongside the contemporary Citroën Revolte concept – a city car inspired by the 2CV's distinctive silhouette.

Originally developed in the 1930s, most of the 250 prototype 2CVs were destroyed before Wold War II – with the exception of three, which were hidden to stop them falling into enemy hands. The fourth was stored by Michelin.

The now iconic model was later unveiled to the public at the 1948 Salon in Paris and became one of the longest-running production cars ever conceived. Citroën produced more than five million examples of the car – including the Fourgonnette small van built on the same platform – during its 42-year run.

Because of their lightweight characteristics and simple design, a number of 4X4 vehicles were even converted to race car duty, competing in off-road endurance rallies across the world.

A wealth of activities will be taking place on and off site at the meeting, including a 2CV 'disassemble-reassemble' competition; a bring-and-buy sale; various children's events; and the use of driving simulators. Road routes will be provided for those wishing to explore the local region and a small number of 2CVs will be on hand for those wishing to discover, or rediscover, the feeling of driving this automotive legend.

By Eric Gallina