1910
1919
Creativity. Technologies. Courage. In 1919, André Citroën founded the brand of the same name…
1919
Citroën "Model A" car
The "Type A" with a 1327 cc four-cylinder engine with a top speed of 65 km/h goes on sale.
1920
1920
Having been on the market for only one year, Citroen manages to sell 10,000 cars.
20 February 1921
Always one step ahead. February 20, 1921 Citroën introduces a series of enamelled road signs for French roads.
12 July 1921
Citroen introduces the 2nd car in the lineup: B2. Compared to Type A, this is a more powerful and technologically advanced vehicle.
01 October 1922
Paris Motor Show: World presentation of the Citroen 5HP. A new compact car based on the Type A.
12 October 1922
Bold creativity… For the first time, in honor of the opening of the 7th Paris Motor Show, an aircraft writes the name of the brand in the sky. This is Paris! It's a Citroen!
17 December 1922
To emphasize the quality of his caterpillar cars, launched in 1922, André Citroën decides to send them across the Sahara. Georges-Marie Haardt (Georges-Marie Haardt) and Louis Audouin-Dubreuil (Louis Audouin-Dubreuil) set off on the expedition Touggourt - Timbuktu - Touggourt, which lasts from December 17, 1922 to March 7, 1923.
1924
In 1924, the production of Citroen cars reaches 50,000 cars a year.
01 October 1924
Citroen introduces the B10, the first all-metal car to replace metal and wood models.
28 October 1924
Expedition "Black raid" in Africa
Encouraged by the success of the expedition to the Sahara, which took place two years earlier, Citroen equips the Black Raid expedition, which should cross the entire African continent from Colomb-Béchar to Cape Town, from October 28, 1924 to June 26, 1925.
1925
Official statistics on the number of cars per capita
In 1926, about a third of the cars on the roads in France were Citroen cars.
28 September 1926
Citroen introduces the B14, a mass-market car that combines luxury features. It was one of the most popular cars in the interwar period. Citroën is also introducing the B15, the first French commercial vehicle with an enclosed cab.
1926
Citroen publishes the first repair manual with a spare parts catalog for the dealer network.
1926
By this time, Citroen employs 31,000 workers and produces 400 cars a day - a record production capacity in Europe.
21 May 1927
Charles Lindbergh at the Citroen factory in 1927
Charles Lindbergh, who made the first transatlantic flight, visits the Citroen factory
01 October 1928
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen is presenting two new models, the C4 and C6.
1929
Launch of the Citroen C6 1 in 1929
Launch of France's first C61 fast truck. Payload: 1800 kg, 6-cylinder engine, 42 hp Steel closed cabin
16 March 1929
Grand opening of the legendary Marbeuf Garage. An architectural masterpiece that will pave the way for the brand's other iconic locations.
01 October 1929
Demonstrating once again his character as a pioneer, André Citroën opens the doors of his plant on the Quai Javel to the public on the occasion of the opening of the Paris Motor Show
1930
04 April 1931
"Yellow Raid" in Asia
Five years after the Black Raid, the Yellow Raid expedition is organized. This time, Citroen, recognizing no intentions to cross the Asian continent from Beirut to Beijing.
October 1931
André Citroën returns from the United States with new ideas, one of which involves the use of a spring-suspended engine, an idea that has contributed to the modernization of automobiles.
This innovative technology dampens vibration from the engine by installing rubber blocks between the engine and the chassis.
April 1932
Citroen coilover engine
C4 G and C6 G cars get an engine on an elastic suspension, called MFP (Moteur Floating Power). Citroen once again bypasses its European competitors. Now all Citroen cars, without exception, are equipped with an engine on an elastic suspension.
October 1932
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën is presenting the Rosalie series of 8CV, 10CV and 15CV cars. The first two models replaced the C4 car, and the third with a six-cylinder engine replaced the C6.
In 1931, thanks to a series of new speed records at the Linas-Montleury circuit, all three models quickly earned the nickname "Rosalie".
27 July 1933
Circuit Montlhéry 300,000 km. 134 days. average speed 93 km/h. This is a new world record set by the "Petite Rosalie" (8CV).
18 April 1934
Innovation. Safety. Comfort. Efficiency. Citroen introduces the brand new "Type 7A" model, which features: front-wheel drive, frameless steel monobloc body, hydraulic brakes on four wheels, independent torsion bar suspension, overhead valve train resilient suspension engine and removable cylinder liners ...
01 October 1934
New Traction model at the Paris Motor Show: 11. Based on the body of the Model 7, widened by 14 cm and lengthened by 20 cm. This model is equipped with a 46 HP engine. and a 3-speed gearbox, speeds up to 106 km / h.
12 December 1934
The release of the Traction Avant does not solve the company's serious financial difficulties, and the company is unable to meet its financial obligations. At that time, Citroen is the leading national as well as European car manufacturer and is the second largest in the world. At the request of the government, Michelin, the main creditor, writes off the company's debts and puts Citroen back on its feet. Citroen continues to operate under the control of Michelin.
03 July 1935
As a result of a serious illness, Andre Citroen died. Pierre Boulanger becomes CEO of the company.
1936
Pierre Boulanger launches the project of the popular subcompact car, the future 2CV. Its specifications say: "A car designed to carry four people and 50 kg of potatoes, speeds up to 60 km / h, with a consumption of 3 liters of gasoline per 100 km, which should provide a comfortable ride."
October 1936
Citroën presents the 11 MI with a diesel engine at the Paris Motor Show. This is the world's first passenger production model with a diesel engine.
12 January 1938
First road test of the TPV (Small Vehicle) prototype that would become the famous 2CV.
01 October 1938
Citroën traction avant 15 CV
The Traction Avant family is growing with the introduction of the 15-Six. Spacious, comfortable, fast car (135 km/h), easy to drive. Thanks to its excellent road holding, the 15-Six is quickly earning the title of "Queen of the Road".
April 1939
Citroen launches the TUB, a B-series commercial vehicle with modern styling, an extended cab and a sliding side loading door.
23 August 1939
The French testing department has registered the 2CV and is now ready to debut on the market.
1940
03 June 1940
The Citroen factory on the Quai Javel is bombed. Factory employees dismantle and hide intact 2CV prototypes. Due to the occupation, production practically stops.
1941
Due to fuel shortages, Citroën decides not to incur losses and offers new alternatives to ensure the mobility of its customers.
1942
1942
The second bombardment of the plant on the Quai Javel, the production facilities were seriously damaged.
06 November 1944
The first Citroen truck
After taking appropriate measures, Citroën builds its first truck at the Javel Quai plant a year after the bombing.
1945
The factory on the Javel waterfront restored. Citroën manages to quickly respond to increasing demands. Production reaches 13.4% of its pre-war level.
1946
CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE
In France, the recovery process is in full swing. Half of the cars produced by Citroën are commercial vehicles.
01 October 1946
Citroën is presenting three new models at the Paris Motor Show: the 11 B, known as the "11 normale" (standard model), the 11 BL, known as the "11 Légère" (light model) and the 15-sixG.
June 1947
First presentation of the Type H. Company President Pierre Boulanger announces the technical specifications: a front-wheel drive single-cab vehicle that will adopt the functions of the four-cylinder Traction Avant with reinforced rear suspension. The main goal is to maximize the use of parts from other cars of the company.
07 October 1948
Citroen 2CV Presentation
Finally, the 2CV model is presented to the public and to the President of the Republic, Vincent Auriol, at the Paris Motor Show. This model surprises with its unusual appearance and expresses a new philosophy of personal transport. It will be released in various modifications with a circulation of more than 5 million copies until July 27, 1990.
October 1949
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën is presenting the Type HZ, a small van with a payload of 850 kg and a top speed of 88 km/h.
1950
October 1950
Inspired by the success of the 2CV, which is 6 years in the queue for purchase, Citroën unveils a modification of the van during the Paris Motor Show: 250 kg payload, 375 cm3 engine with a top speed of 60 km/h and fuel consumption of 5 liters per 100 km .
11 November 1950
Pierre Boulanger, CEO of Citroën (born March 10, 1885), has died at the age of 65.
1951
The Citroen 15 CV becomes the official car of the French authorities.
March 1951
Start of production of the 2CV van; the production of this car will number more than 1.2 million copies in the period up to March 1978.
June 1952
To meet the needs of its customers, Citroen is lengthening the rear of the Tractions Avant to double the boot space.
1953
Commercial vehicle Citroen Type 55
The Type 55 commercial vehicle replaces the Type 45. Gasoline and diesel engines, 76 hp, payload of 5,000 kg with a gross vehicle weight of 9,300 kg. Also produced bus "55 UADI" with a 6-cylinder diesel engine for 29 seats.
May 1954
Citroen 15 Six
The 15-Six model was equipped with a fixed-height hydropneumatic suspension at the rear. A real technical breakthrough of the Citroen design bureau.
20 July 1955
End of production of the 15-Six after a 23-year career.
06 October 1955
Citroen DS at the Paris Motor Show
A technical and aesthetic revolution at the Paris Motor Show. Citroen presents the DS, a car that looks like it's straight out of the pages of a sci-fi novel. Original design, avant-garde interior trim, hydropneumatic suspension and fully hydraulic steering. 750 cars sold in just 45 minutes, 12,000 the next day and 80,000 before closing.
1955
CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1956)
Introduction of the ID 19 to the range. Available in Standard (63 hp, 4,000 rpm and 130 km/h) and Deluxe (66 hp, 4,500 rpm) versions and 135 km/h).
May 1957
Introduction of the ID 19 to the range. Available in Standard (63 hp, 4,000 rpm and 130 km/h) and Deluxe (66 hp, 4,500 rpm) versions and 135 km/h).
July 1957
Complete production of the Traction Avant after over 750,000 units.
March 1958
Presentation of 2CV 4x4 cars, also known as 2CV Sahara. Powered by two 425cc engines, this 4x4 vehicle is capable of climbing sandy slopes with a gradient of more than 40% with a full load.
09 October 1958
In honor of the founder of the company, the Javel embankment is named the André Citroen embankment.
1959
Pioneer. Citroën receives an invitation to take part with the DS car body in an international exhibition of design art, chaired by the architect Giovanni Gio Ponti, at the Triennale Museum in Milan.
1959
Victory of the ID 19 at the Monte Carlo rally with the crew of Colteloni-Alexander-Derosier. As a result, Citroen decides to participate in various automotive competitions.
1960
01 October 1960
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroën presents the DS 19 convertible with a body by Henri Chapron. This car has the widest range of personalization options: 76 color combinations, 13 exterior colors and 11 leather and upholstery shades!
1960
Opening of a plant in the suburbs of Rennes (Brittany). With state-of-the-art equipment and automation, the plant is designed to produce 1,200 vehicles per day. This is the first Citroen factory with a full assembly cycle.
24 April 1961
Ami 6 launch on the same day across Europe. The Ami 6 added to the lineup; its main differences were the pronounced lines of the body and the rear concave glass.
22 August 1962
General de Gaulle survives an attempt on his life at the Petit Clamart near Paris. Despite the riddled wheels, the Citroen DS presidential car continued on its course without further damage.
October 1962
In October, at the Paris Motor Show, which is taking place for the first time at the Porte de Versailles exhibition centre, Citroen presents the updated DS 19. It features a new front end design and new bumpers that have been designed to improve aerodynamic properties and reaches 160 km/h).
1963
Creation of the sports division of Citroen under the leadership of René Cotton.
07 February 1964
Legendary Citroen designer Flaminio Bertoni dies. He was at the forefront of the creation of the legendary DS 19 and Ami 6.
September 1964
Citroën presents the DS 19 Pallas, a sophisticated car with great attention to interior design and trim.
October 1964
Citroen Ami 6 station wagon
Paris Motor Show: presentation of the Ami 6 station wagon and a new option for all Citroen cars - seat belts.
December 1964
On the car, the 2CV gets new front hinged doors.
September 1965
The arrival of the new DS 21. More powerful, equipped with a new engine with a 5-bearing crankshaft, the DS 21 is also equipped with an automatic headlight tilting device to compensate for dynamic variations in the height of the vehicle's chassis above the roadbed.
January 1965
The last rally for the Citroen DS driven by "Flying Finn" Pauli Toivonen ends with a victory in Monte Carlo.
July 1967
Between the 2CV and Ami 6 versions, the Citroen lineup is replenished with the Dyane car. This vehicle uses the proven 2CV running gear (425cc twin-cylinder engine, 4-speed gearbox, speeds up to 100 km/h and consumption of 4.9 liters/100 km) and a completely new bodywork. With a rear tailgate and folding rear seats, this car is a sedan with all the benefits of a station wagon.
September 1967
All DS and ID models received an updated design (fenders, hood, bumper, lower fairing, as well as an optical system of four headlights, two of which turn in the direction of travel).
January 1968
The Dyane 6 makes its debut. This car has a more powerful engine than the Ami (602 cc, 110 km/h and 6.1 liters/100 km).
May 1968
With the launch of the Méhari, Citroën is expanding its family of small two-cylinder cars. The original, versatile cross-country vehicle. Thanks to the use of a plastic body, the risk of corrosion is eliminated and resistance to small impacts is increased.
March 1969
The Ami 8 replaces the Ami 6. This vehicle features a new body design that is simplified and sleeker for improved visibility.
September 1969
Another victory over the competition with the introduction of the DS 21 marks the first use of electronic injection in a French production car. (12 hp, 188 km/h for 10 liters/100 km).
07 October 1969
Release of the one millionth DS car - the DS 21 model with a gold body.
1970
January 1970
Limited edition of 267 pieces. Body based on the Ami 8 model. 2-door 4-seater coupe. Hydropneumatic suspension. 995cc single-rotor piston engine and 4-speed gearbox. The M35 prototype is a real laboratory on wheels. Citroen offers it to its customers who want to test it with over 30,000 km/year.
March 1970
Citroen SM
Born from an agreement with Maserati in 1968, the sporty and respectable Citroen SM touring car inherited all the experience of the DS model in the development of all-wheel drive and hydraulic suspension. It is equipped with a six-cylinder Maserati V-engine, a five-speed gearbox and a Diravi electric power steering system. Its dynamic qualities captivate connoisseurs not only in France and Europe, but also in the United States of America.
October 1970
Positioned between the Ami 8 and the DS in Citroen's lineup, the GS unveiled at the Paris Motor Show features a new body that will remain the world's most aerodynamic for years to come. It also features an air-cooled flat-four engine with hydropneumatic suspension.
1970
With the Paris-Persepolis-Paris Rally, Citroën is giving 1,300 young people from all walks of life an exciting 13,800 km journey in a 2CV, Dyane or Méhari, from the outskirts of Paris to southern Iran.
1970
Citroen GS wins Car of the Year in 1971
The GS car wins Car of the Year.
April 1971
The first participation in competitions, the first victory. We are talking about the Citroen SM at the rally in Morocco.
September 1972
The DS 23 car with carburetor and electronic injection system replaces the DS 21. It is equipped with a new 2347 cm3 engine (speed up to 188 km/h and consumption of 12 liters/100 km).
February 1973
Super Ami = Ami body + 4-cylinder GS engine.
1974
Merger of Citroen and Peugeot
Michelin and the Peugeot Group decide to merge Citroen and Peugeot to create a major international company.
March 1974
Market launch of the C35. Commercial vehicle with a payload of 1,885 kg built in cooperation with Fiat.
October 1974
Citroen CX
Citroen CX presented at the Paris Motor Show. Less groundbreaking than its predecessor, the DS it replaced, the CX combines the company's latest technological advances. The best proof of this is the transverse front-mounted engine/gearbox assembly, fixed-height hydropneumatic suspension, single-blade windshield wiper, concave taillights and futuristic instrument panel.
January 1975
CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1975)
The CX wins Car of the Year, Safety and Styling awards.
24 April 1975
The last DS car rolls off the assembly line at the Javel factory. The 1,330,755th and final example is the DS 23 Pallas Bleu Delta with an electronic injection system.
January 1976
The first presentation of the universal car CX.
01 October 1976
The first presentation of the Citroen LN is taking place at the Paris Motor Show. The smallest engine in the model range with the smallest body (based on the Peugeot 104 coupe). 602 cm3 air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, 32 hp, 4-speed gearbox, speed up to 120 km/h and consumption of 5.9 liters/100 km.
1976
CX 2400 cars take first 5 places during a driving tour in Senegal
April 1977
Presentation of a special limited edition "Dyane Caban" of 1,500 copies.
May 1977
CX 2400 GTI: electronically controlled fuel injection system, 2347 cm3 engine, 128 hp, top speed 189 km/h and fuel consumption 8.1 liters/100 km.
February 1978
The introduction of the CX Prestige, which features a body lengthened by 25 cm.
March 1978
Acadiane, a new small commercial vehicle based on the Dyane model, is replacing the 2CV vans. 602 cm3 engine, 31 hp and speeds up to 100 km/h.
October 1978
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen is presenting two novelties: the LNA model, which replaced the LN, and the Visa model. These new vehicles are equipped with the AEI (Electronic Ignition System) system, a world first for a production vehicle.
May 1979
Méhari all-wheel drive model
Launch of the Méhari 4x4. This model is equipped with a 7-speed gearbox (4 normal and 3 transfer) and reverse gear with reduction gear.
1980
October 1980
The 2CV gets two-tone bodywork and round headlights with the introduction of the 2CV Charleston. Initially envisioned as a limited run of 8,000 units, the 2CV Charleston proved to be a resounding success, leading to its introduction into series production in 1981.
March 1981
The Visa model is being replaced by the Visa II model with a new body and a more economical engine.
May 1981
Citroen launches the new C25 commercial vehicle co-produced with Peugeot and Fiat.
July 1982
At the top of the Visa range, the Visa GT replaces the Visa II Super X. It features a 1,360cc engine with 80hp, a top speed of 168km/h, and a fuel consumption of 5.6 liters/100 km.
September 1982
Presentation of the production model BX, designed to win new customers. This is a 5-door and 5-seat hatchback that occupies a place in the lineup between the GSA and CX. It comes with 3 engines to choose from: 1360cc and 62HP with 4-speed gearbox, 1360cc and 72HP with 5-speed gearbox and 1580 and 90HP with 5-speed gearbox gears.
February 1983
Launch of the Visa convertible: the flexible rear glass roof can be folded all the way or just the front.
July 1983
Starting from this date, all production Citroën vehicles are equipped with a laminated windshield.
1983
Together with Michelin, Citroen launches a women's racing series: 11 finalists are selected from 6,000 candidates. 6 tests were carried out and only 2 of the finalists became factory testers.
September 1984
Launch of the BX 19 GT, equipped with an on-board computer and a 1,905 cm3 (185 km/h) engine.
October 1984
Citroen CX 25 GTi Turbo
CX 25 GTi Turbo: The best performance in its category. 2500 cm3 engine with electronically controlled injection system and turbocharger, 168 hp, speed up to 220 km/h.
October 1984
The C15 E (gasoline) and C15 D (diesel) are two small commercial vehicles with a payload of 570 kg, developed from the Visa model.
January 1985
Launch of the Visa GTi model. 1,580 cm3 engine with electronically controlled injection system, 105 hp. and a 5-speed gearbox allows the car to reach speeds of up to 188 km / h.
March 1985
October 1986
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At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents the AX model. 3-door hatchback with front wheel drive and a drag coefficient of 0.31. It features a completely new transversely vertically mounted transmission.
1987
Citroen AX enters the small sports car market first in March with the AX Sport and then in October with the AX GT. This model takes part in the Rally Morocco and the Rally Monte Carlo.
January 1987
Starting from this moment, Citroen gives a 5-year anti-corrosion guarantee for all models.
July 1987
Presentation of the new BX 19 GTi with the first French 16-valve engine (4 cylinders, volume 1905 cm3, 164 hp, top speed 218 km/h).
July 1988
Operation Dragon
Operation Dragon. 140 young drivers from all over Europe are driving over 4,500 kilometers across China in a Citroen AX between Shenzhen and Beijing.
October 1988
Citroën presents the Activa at the Paris International Motor Show. This is an experimental prototype that has served as the basis for the development of projects such as the development of all-wheel drive and electronically controlled suspension.
December 1988
The AX Sport Turbo takes 7 podiums out of 10 in the French Supermanufacturers' Championship.
February 1989
Two new all-wheel drive BX models hit dealerships: the BX 4x4 and BX 4x4 Evasion. Their four-wheel drive includes the following 3 differentials: front, center lock and rear limited slip.
23 May 1989
Citroen adds a new model to its lineup: Xm. This is a serial liftback designed by Bertone, featuring the world's first suspension that combines electronic control with the power and flexibility of hydraulics. The birth of the Hydractive suspension.
1990
1990
Citroen XM wins Car of the Year award
The Xm car wins Car of the Year and 14 international awards.
27 July 1990
After the release of 5,114,940 copies, the production of 2CV cars was solemnly stopped at the plant in Mangualdi (Portugal). The car quickly became popular with collectors.
October 1990
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen once again showcases its technological advances. The C15 and C25 electric cars sit next to a working prototype of the Activa 2, the real star of the showroom. The Activa 2 is equipped with a 200 hp 24-valve 3.0-litre V6 engine, an automatic 4-speed transmission, an active lateral control system and a 5-function screen.
17 January 1991
ZX Rallye raid driven by Ari Vatanen wins 13th Paris-Tripoli-Dakar race (9,186 km)
March 1991
CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (1991)
Citroën unveils the ZX at the Geneva Motor Show. It will be released as a "collection" of 4 models (Reflex, Avantage, Aura and Volcane) that sit between the AX and BX in the lineup. The ZX is the first European car to feature a reclining sliding rear seat.
20 April 1992
Citroen's Citroen Citela electric car prototype is the main focus of visitors to the French Pavilion at the World Expo in Seville.
29 September 1992
60 years after the Yellow Raid, the crew of Pierre Lartigue/Michel Perin takes part in the 16,000 km Paris-Moscow-Beijing Rally and wins first place in a Citroen ZX Rallye Raid.
01 March 1993
Launch of the Xantia, a 4.44 m long 5-door sedan co-produced by Citroen and Bertone. The Xantia model implements all the technological achievements of the company, not only to set new industry standards in comfortable driving, but also to equip the car with a powerful passive safety system (Hydractive 2)
21 September 1993
Production at the Aulnay-sous-bois plant of the 2,000,000th AX.
14 January 1994
The first presentation of the Citroen Jumper on the occasion of the opening of the showroom of commercial vehicles in Geneva. A product of cooperation with Peugeot and Fiat, Citroen Jumper is extremely attractive: appearance, new petrol and diesel engines, new gearboxes.
March 1994
Presentation of the Citroen Evasion car at the Geneva Motor Show. It combines all the qualities of an executive sedan in terms of handling, comfort, road behavior and safety.
October 1994
The Xantia Activa presented at the Paris Motor Show is the first car in the world that can change its ride height thanks to its SC.CAR active lateral control system. It is also equipped with additional devices such as a driver's airbag, electrically operated rear windows and, finally, width-adjustable seat backs.
February 1995
Production of the millionth ZX car at the Aunay-sous-Bois (Aulnay) plant.
15 September 1995
Transport exhibition. Citroen presents the Jumpy, a commercial vehicle that is compact and versatile (815 kg payload and 4 m3 usable volume).
November 1995
The Citroen AX Electric debuts on the market. Power: 20 kW. Maximum speed: 91 km/h. Autonomy: 75 km in the city. Available in 3-door/4-seat hatchback and 2-seat commercial vehicle versions.
02 November 1995
1996
The Saxo Cup replaces the Coupe AX.
1996
Within 8 months, the Aunay-sous-Bois (Olnay) plant produced 100,000 Saxo vehicles.
July 1996
Commercial implementation of the car Citroen Berlingo. Although styled more like a sedan than a commercial vehicle, the Berlingo has a usable volume of 3m3 with a payload of 800kg.
September 1996
Minivan Citroen Berlingo
The first appearance of the Berlingo minivan, practical and comfortable, the start of sales of which is scheduled for early 1997.
22 August 1997
International PR campaign for young Europeans aged 18 to 35: Citroen Berlingo rally on the route Paris-Samarkand-Moscow.
11 September 1997
Citroen Xsara (4.17 m) joins the lineup, taking a place between Saxo (3.72 m) and Xantia (4.52 m). A symbol of the new generation, at the top of the lineup, Xsara represents the company's achievements in terms of comfort, safety and road behavior.
06 February 1998
At the vintage car show, Citroen is showing three unique pre-war 2CV models produced in accordance with the 1939 certification.
25 March 1998
The 500,000th Saxo rolls off the assembly line under the patronage of sculptor Cesar.
October 1998
Concept car Citroen C3 "Lumière"
Citroën turns its eyes to the future with the introduction of the C3 Lumière concept car, which serves as the prototype for the new model. It features an innovative and versatile architecture in terms of functionality and internal layout.
October 1998
Centenary of the Paris Motor Show. Citroen presents the public car Xsara Picasso - a compact, combining the features of a monocab and hatchback with an original and innovative design.
1998
1 million de Citroën Xantia & Citroën Saxo products
The 1,000,000 Xantia is produced at the Rennes-la-Janais plant, while the 1,000,000th Saxo is produced from the Aulnay-sous-bois plant.
11 March 1999
Concept car Citroen C6 "Lignage"
"The Art of Traveling with a Citroen" or presentation of the C6 Lignage at the Geneva Motor Show. C6 Lignage illustrates the architectural and design possibilities of the company's future representative model. At the same Citroen stand, the visitor can also linger at the "Pluriel" show car, an original model that does not fit into any traditional segment.
2000
1999
Construction of the Citroen Museum in Ones-sous-Bois (Olnay). This 6,700 m2 building was built to preserve Citroen models produced since the founding of the company and preserved to this day. Its opening is scheduled for November 28, 2001.
02 March 2000
CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (2000)
Presentation of the Citroen C3 Pluriel at the Geneva Motor Show.
30 September 2000
Status, power, dynamism, endurance. At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents the C5. To bridge the gap between pedestrians and cyclists, the company is also presenting the Osmose concept car, designed primarily for the city. The car of the future, sociable and open. It will then be exhibited at the Center Georges Pompidou.
2001
Citroen's young hope, Sebastian Loeb and his co-driver Daniel Helena, won the French championship in the Xsara KitCar. The same crew becomes the Junior World Rally Champion driving the Saxo Super 1600.
September 2001
At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Citroen presents the C3 and introduces the public to the C-Crosser concept car: 3 seats in front, movable driver's seat (has three positions: left, center and right) with electronic control (x-by- wire"), no steering column. It is a versatile vehicle that combines adventure, freedom and comfort.
07 March 2002
At the Geneva Motor Show, Citroen presents the C8, a car for traveling with family or friends, where everything is thought out to the smallest detail.
25 August 2002
First world victory for Loeb and Helena
At the stage of the World Rally Championship in Germany, the young crew of Loeb/Elena won their first victory.
28 September 2002
C-Airdream is the company's new concept car. This 2+2 coupe, presented at the Paris International Motor Show, is an opportunity for the company to continue its design developments.
06 March 2003
Geneva Motor Show, presentation of the C2 Citroen Sport concept car. A joint product of the Concept Car Division and Citroen Sport Division.
08 September 2003
In Frankfurt, Citroën confirms its intentions with the introduction of the production car C2, a fine example of a small compact 3-door sedan designed for 4 people. Another star of the German showroom is the C-Airlounge concept car, which once again demonstrates the company's creativity.
08 November 2003
After 13 podiums, Citroën receives the 2003 World Rally Champion title. Sebastian Loeb is second in the driver's standings.
2004
Release of the millionth car Xsara Picasso.
25 September 2004
At the Paris International Motor Show, Citroën is presenting the new C4 hatchback and coupe, the new C5 sedan and C5 station wagon, and the C3 with a Stop&Start system designed to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
17 October 2004
Sebastian Loeb - World Rally Champion
At the end of the rally in Corsica and without waiting for the end of the championship, Citroën wins a second world title in the constructors' championship. Sebastian Loeb, finishing second, receives his first world rally title.
October 2005 
First world presentation of the C-Sportlounge concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
08 October 2005
DS 50th Anniversary. 1,600 DS cars take part in the parade in Paris dedicated to the birthday of the famous Citroen birthday.
18 February 2006
CHAMPS NON RENSEIGNE (2006)
Citroen creates C-Triomphe concept car especially for China
06 September 2006
At the Paris Motor Show, Citroen presents a new concept car that combines passion and practicality. C-Métisse showcases new options designed exclusively for driving pleasure.
30 September 2006
Market launch of the Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, positioned above the Xsara Picasso in the lineup.
March 2007
At the Geneva Motor Show, Citroën is presenting the C-Crosser, which is scheduled to hit the market in July. The company's first SUV, designed for 5 + 2 seats, is characterized by high cross-country ability due to its dimensions and all-wheel drive.
27 September 2007
The company is completing its work on the preparation of the exhibition hall at 42, Champs Elysees. Grand opening of the exhibition hall C_42. For 6 months, this iconic place receives more than 1 million visitors.
18 October 2007
At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Citroën is unveiling the C5 Airscape concept car, a large convertible sedan that heralds the upcoming C5 in the near future.
15 January 2008
At the Brussels Motor Show, the company presents the new Citroen C5. The designers started their work from scratch to create a new generation car.
08 July 2008
The Citroen C3 Picasso's little brother enters the Picasso family, an innovative car that stands out for its daring style, innovative architecture and ingenuity.
10 September 2008
In the company's family car category, next to the Berlingo Multispace is the Citroen Némo Combi. Among other things, it is characterized by its compact external dimensions (3.96 m in length) and a spacious interior.
October 2008
The slogan of the Citroën booth at the Paris International Salon 2008 is Innovation, sustainability and creativity. In total, no less than 34 cars, 11 new models and 8 concept cars are exhibited. Of note are the GTbyCitroen, 2CV Hermes, C-Cactus and Hypnos concept cars, as well as the Citroen C3 Pluriel Charleston, a nod to history.
Three-compartment Citroen C Quatre at the Shanghai Auto Show
Citroen is expanding its lineup in China and is introducing two new vehicles at the Shanghai International Auto Show: the C-Quatre sedan, and the new C5, which will be built in Wuhan.
October 2009
Revolte (Riot). With this name given to the latest concept car, Citroen shows how bold and progressive the company is. This is a small, ultra-elegant city car that combines luxury with audacity.
October 2009
The first showroom to present the new Citroen C3 in Frankfurt. Citroen is pursuing an ambitious goal: to update the best-selling car with over 2 million units.
2010
14 January 2010
88th Motor Show in Brussels. The company presents its new small car Citroen C-Zéro. In this way, Citroen is expanding its presence in the small car segment by offering a 100% electric car to facilitate urban mobility.
18 January 2010
Roughly one year after the DS Inside presentation (Geneva 2009), Citroen introduces the DS3 and unveils the new DS line announced the year before. This line of special cars, based on the most radical solutions, complements the main model range.
02 March 2010
Citroën presents the Survolt at the Geneva Motor Show: breaking stereotypes and exciting the imagination. The company continues to move towards the development of electric car models, special and extraordinary, already brought to life with the release of the Revolte concept car a few months earlier.
18 April 2010
Metropolis concept car
On the eve of the showroom opening in Shanghai, Citroen presents the Métropolis model. The first concept car developed by the company's design center Shanghai, which was established in 2008. This concept car will be exhibited at the Beijing Motor Show in October, as well as in the French Pavilion of the Shanghai World Expo
23 August 2010
Citroen Racing engineers are working on a version of the DS3 Sport Chic to improve performance and performance. Redesigned engine, steering, chassis and new name - DS3 Racing.
15 September 2010
As with the new Citroen C5 launched in 2008 and the C3 launched in 2009, the new Citroen C4 showcases the company's innovations and technologies, which will be used later to update the main lineup.
30 September 2010
At the international exhibition in Paris, Citroen presents the concept car Citroen Lacoste, the car of the future. This is a new image of the car, which resists the stereotype of "more and more" and calls for a measured approach to life.
01 March 2011
Market launch of the Citroen DS4. This second car in the DS line features a new form of elevated 4-door coupe that combines dynamism and versatility to create a new driving experience.
01 March 2011
Launch of Citroen Multicity
Citroen becomes the first car company to offer the Multicity service, which covers all modes of transport, making it much easier to get around: www.multicity.citroen.fr.
18 April 2011
After the Citroen DS3 and DS4 models, the Company introduces the DS5 model in Shanghai. Slender and daring, the Citroen DS5 fits perfectly into the DS line, while distinguishing itself with its architecture, feel, style and sophistication.
27 July 2011
19th World Meeting of Citroen 2CV Friends. On the anniversary of the end of 2CV production, more than 20,000 enthusiasts gather around 7,000 examples of this legendary car and its modifications (Ami 6 and 8, Dyane, Méhari…)
September 2011
64th motor show in Frankfurt. With the Tubik concept car, reminiscent of Type H cars from the future, Citroen expresses its vision of tomorrow's mobility, where the journey itself will be as important as the destination. Tubik's challenge is to create a 9-seater that is as stylish and equipped as a modern sedan.
24 October 2011
With 70 Facebook communities, Citroen has over a million fans around the world.
11 February 2012
80 years after the Yellow Raid Expedition, Xavier and Antonin, two ground engineers, embark on the first world tour in an electric Citroen C-Zéro. 8 months, 25,000 kilometers, 17 countries for 250 euros in electricity bill!
01 April 2012
Citroen is expanding its lineup with the launch of the C4 Aircross. In a rapidly growing segment, with this new model, Citroen aims to use traditional compact SUV design with innovative technology and modern design.
13 April 2012
Citroen Numero 9
Numero 9 (Number 9) - this is the name of the latest development of the company. This is a concept car, a new expression of the DS line, which again repeats the familiar prestige silhouette known in the history of the automotive industry: the station wagon
June 2012
Increasing pace of company expansion: Citroen launches the Citroen C4 Sedan and C-Elysée models one after the other. These two three-section sedans are intended in particular for rapidly developing global markets such as the Mediterranean countries, China and Russia.
October 2012
At the International Motor Show in Paris, Citroen starts taking orders for the new DS3 Cabrio. This convertible version of the Citroen DS3 combines all the benefits of the base version (design, driving feel and capacity) with the driving pleasure of a convertible. The roof can be opened at speeds up to 120 km/h.
Top
In 1919, Citroen was founded, one of the largest automobile companies in Europe. The brand's first model became one of the most popular cars of the 20th century. The compact Citroen A was equipped with a 1.3-liter power unit, the power of which was 18 horsepower. The combination of a light body, a powerful and reliable engine, as well as a low price model, ensured the great popularity of Citroen cars.
After the first success, the brand began to create several cars at once, the company's founder Andre Citroen was passionate about the idea of creating such a car that could become a platform for creating several models. At the same time, the production of Model A exceeded one hundred copies per day. However, in 1921, the Citroën 5 CV Trefle was introduced, which replaced the Model A in a timely manner, as its sales rate gradually fell.
In parallel with this, it was Andre Citroen who became the first in the world to apply PR solutions in the automotive sector, which led to the brand gaining popularity far beyond France. By the end of the 20s, Citroen had representation in all major European countries.
In 1929, two models were presented at once - B12 and B14, which won the title of the most comfortable cars of their time. This was confirmed by sales of Citroen cars, which sold 135 thousand in just two years of production. And in 1931, the next Citroen Grand Lux model was introduced, which became the company's first premium car. The car was equipped with a 2.7-liter power unit, revolutionary for the European market, with a capacity of 53 horsepower. By 1933, Citroën, under André's leadership, had become the largest car manufacturer on the continent, surpassing Italy's FIAT and bringing car production to 1,100 cars a day.
However, already in 1934, the demand for Citroen cars suddenly fell, which by that time had invested all its assets in the creation of new factories and technology centers, so the company was on the verge of bankruptcy. One of the reasons for such a rapid collapse was the global economic crisis. 2 months after the start of the bankruptcy proceedings, 60% of the shares were bought out by the Michelin automobile rubber manufacturer.
A few months later, the founder of the company Andre Citroen passes away. Nevertheless, the heirs of the automotive legend tried to rectify the situation, which took them two decades. In 1955, the Citroen DS model was introduced, which became very popular in the automotive market in France and Italy. The company was able to make a profit for the first time, something that had not happened for more than twenty years. However, the period from 1955 to 1969 did not become successful for Citroen. In 1976, the Citroen brand became part of Peugeot, the largest automaker in France at that time.
In the first half of the 90s of the twentieth century, the Citroen brand produces such models as Santia, Saxo and Berlingo, gradually returning to its former greatness. In addition, active preparations have begun for participation in several racing series. At the same time, several models of different classes are born at once. The first of these was the Citroen C4 model, which belongs to the compact class C according to the European classification, followed by the C3 - B class, and C5 - D class.
In 2004, just two years after entering the World Rally Championship, French driver Sébastien Loeb, driving a Citroen Casara, becomes the winner of the general classification. This was followed by his victories in the C4, C3 and DS3 cars, bringing the total number of victories to 9. Thus, taking part in 12 seasons of the championship, a record was set for the number of victories in the history of the WRC.
The model range of the company, against the backdrop of success in automobile competitions, was replenished with sports versions of famous models, and in 2007, the first Citroen crossover, built on the Mitsubishi Outlander platform, was introduced. In 2011, another compact crossover model was introduced, which became one of the most popular cars in the French market in 2012.
The new direction of the company was the creation of a unique design. Due to the fact that all technological developments were carried out jointly with Peugeot, they did not require huge investments.
In 2013, the Citroen C4 Picasso (five-seater version) was released, which soon, already in 2014, found its “big brother” Citroen Grand C4 Picasso with increased capacity (seven seats). The upgraded version was a real leap forward and gave all subsequent models a completely new sophisticated design. The car is designed on the EMP2 platform, thanks to which the drivers of the novelty have reduced the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. This model was distinguished not only by its perfect appearance, but also by the introduction of a huge number of modern technologies. For example, a convenient touch display that allows you to control all on-board systems.
It is worth noting that the versions of 2013 and 2014 were able to collect more than 65 thousand orders. Cars began to be in great demand in large families.
Citroën is a French car brand headquartered in Paris. Since 1976, it has been part of the PSA Peugeot Citroën concern. The company has a successful history of manufacturing technologically advanced vehicles, as well as multiple motorsport victories. To date, the brand's largest sales market is China, where sales are carried out mainly through Dongfeng Peugeot-Citroën.
The founder of the company Andre Citroen was born in 1878 in a family of immigrants from Odessa. He graduated from the Polytechnic Institute and got a job in a workshop manufacturing parts for steam locomotives. There he managed to quickly build a career, and already in 1908 Citroen served as technical director of the Mors plant.
During the First World War, the factory produced artillery shells for France, but after it ended, it was necessary to look for ways to load production capacity. At first, Andre Citroen did not plan to enter the automotive business, but this area was familiar to him and promised considerable profit, so he decided to take a chance. At first, Citroen decided to develop a technically sophisticated 18-horsepower car, but came to the conclusion that it was necessary to rely on affordable cars of good quality, following the example of those produced by Henry Ford.
In 1919, he begins production of the Type A, which was designed by Jules Salomon, the former chief designer of Le Zèbre. The car was equipped with an 18-horsepower four-cylinder and water-cooled engine, and its volume was 1327 cubic meters. see Citroën Type A accelerated to 65 km / h. Its price in the first year of production was 7,950 francs, which was quite cheap. It was the first model in Europe to receive an electric starter and light, and in addition, it was produced in a volume of 100 units per day.
Citroën Type A (1919-1921)
In 1919, André Citroën negotiated with General Motors to sell the brand. The deal was almost done when the American company felt that buying Citroën would be too much of a burden for it. Thus, the brand remained independent until 1935.
Being an excellent marketer, Citroen used the Eiffel Tower as the world's largest advertising medium, which got into the Guinness Book of Records. The inscription "Citroën" flaunted on the main attraction of Paris for 9 years. In addition, the brand organized sponsorship expeditions to Asia, North America and Africa to demonstrate the capabilities of cars.
At the Paris Motor Show in October 1924, the company introduced the Citroën B10 as the first car in Europe to use an all-steel body. At first, the model enjoyed great success in the market, but later competitors began to change the body structure, while Citroën did not redesign. Cars still sold well, but at a low price, which affected the financial condition of the company in a bad way.
To remedy the situation, the brand has developed the Traction Avant with an all-metal monocoque body, front-wheel drive and independent front wheel suspension. 1933 also saw the release of the world's first mass-produced diesel car, the Rosalie.
Citroën Traction Avant (1934-1957)
The development, production and market launch of the Traction Avant required a huge investment. Citroen did not spare money, which brought the company to bankruptcy.
In 1934, Citroën becomes the property of its biggest creditor, Michelin. A year later, Andre Citroen died of stomach cancer.
During the German occupation of France in World War II, company president Pierre-Jules Boulanger refused to meet with Ferdinand Porsche and communicated with the German authorities only through intermediaries. He sabotaged the production of trucks for the Wehrmacht by assembling the vehicles incorrectly. When Paris was liberated, his name was included in the list of the most important "enemies of the Reich".
During the occupation, the brand's engineers continued to work on the design of new cars, keeping it secret from the Germans. They developed concepts that were later embodied in the 2CV, Type H and DS models.
In 1948, at the Paris Motor Show, Citroën presented a 2CV car with a low-powered engine (12 hp), which became a bestseller among the French because of its low cost and reliability. This car continued to be manufactured, with only minor changes, until 1990. In total, 8.8 million copies of the model were produced.
Citroën 2CV (1949-1990)
In 1955, another iconic car of the brand debuted - DS-19, which was distinguished by its bright appearance and low landing. It was the first mass-produced car with modern disc brakes. In addition, he received a power steering and brakes, as well as a hydropneumatic suspension, which ensured a smooth ride and the ability to adjust the height of the car. Since 1968, the DS has been equipped with directional headlights that improve visibility at night.
The brand used a high pressure hydraulic system on its models, which was installed on more than 9 million machines of the DS, SM, GS, CX, BX, XM, Xantia, C5 and C6 models. It maintains a constant vehicle height above the road, despite the load on the vehicle, and absorbs road bumps, increasing driving comfort. In the early 1960s, Mercedes-Benz tried to replicate this effect by avoiding Citroën's patented technologies, but they were so complex and expensive that development continued until 1975, when the German brand was finally able to offer the market a proven hydropneumatic suspension.
Citroën was one of the pioneers of aerodynamic automotive design. As early as the 1950s, the company began using the wind tunnel, allowing for highly optimized cars such as the DS that were decades ahead of their competitors.
In 1960, the company made a series of financial and research maneuvers to strengthen its market position, but from the fact that it went bankrupt in 1974, it is clear that they were unsuccessful.
First, the brand wanted to launch a car that would sit between the small 2CV and the large DS in the model line. Secondly, it was necessary to develop a powerful engine for export markets. For the DS and CX models, such a motor was being developed, but they laid down a heavy financial burden. As a result, the cars continued to be equipped with a small four-cylinder outdated power unit.
In 1965, the company acquired truck manufacturer Berliet. Three years later, the French manufacturer bought out the Italian sports car maker Maserati, again with the prospect of producing a more powerful car. It was a 1970 SM with a 170-horsepower 2.7-liter engine, hydropneumatic suspension and a self-centering steering system called DIRAVI.
Citroën SM (1970-1975)
The GS model in 1970 was finally able to bridge the huge gap between the 2CV and the DS. It became very successful, putting Citroën in second place among French automakers after Peugeot.
By the mid-1970s, the company was weighed down by many problems. Among them were the consequences of the fuel crisis, which was intensified by the brand's stake in large engines, large investments in the development of new models, and a forced exit from the American market. The company sells Berliet and Maserati, closes a number of joint ventures, but still goes bankrupt.
With the assistance of the French government, the PSA Peugeot Citroën group was created in 1976. The new automaker has launched a number of successful models, including the GS, CX, the revised 2CV, the Dyane, and the Peugeot 104 based on the Citroën Visa and Citroën LNA.
However, the new owners gradually reduced the ambition of Citroën engineers for technological innovation, trying to rebrand the brand, directing it to the mass market. In the 1980s, more and more Citroën models were built on the basis of Peugeot, and by the end of the decade, many of the brand's distinctive attributes had almost disappeared. However, despite the simplification of cars, sales remained stable.
In the 1990s, the brand expanded its sales geography, gaining a foothold in the markets of the USA, Eastern Europe, the CIS countries and China. The latter is currently her priority.
In Russia, the Citroën brand was in steady demand, which prompted the management of PSA Peugeot Citroën to organize the assembly of the most popular models in our country. In the spring of 2006, the company held talks with the Russian Ministry of Economic Development on the construction of a plant. In 2008, the French automaker agreed with the Japanese company Mitsubishi Motors to build an auto plant near Kaluga, which will produce 160,000 cars a year. The two companies formed a joint venture with 70% PSA Peugeot Citroën and 30% Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. In April 2010, the plant began work. There, the SKD method is used to manufacture the Citroën C4 model.
This car has become one of the most popular among Russian buyers. It was designed to expand its reach to a consumer audience and received many technological innovations, including directional headlights, an ESP system, as well as the Hydractive suspension used on higher-end models. The brake system includes ventilated brake discs on the front and rear wheels, ABS system.
In 2008, the model received a facelift, and in 2010, the automaker presented the second generation, which is still in production.
Citroën C4 (2004)
Citroën is now developing its lineup, expanding it with the addition of a crossover, electric and hybrid vehicles. Active developments are being carried out in the field of creating revolutionary concept cars, with a striking design, aimed at young, active buyers. The brand intends to expand its presence in emerging markets.
The first "logo", as it is now called, with a "double chevron" appeared on the automotive market in 1913, when the workshop of Andre Citroen and his friends began to supply gearboxes to some car manufacturers.
Shortly before the outbreak of the First World War, Citroën purchased a piece of land on the Quai Javel, southwest of the center of Paris. There he built the most modern ammunition factory by the standards of that time, equipped with the best industrial equipment. During the First World War, this plant produced up to 55,000 shells and cartridges per day. Serious and very profitable business, but only in wartime. However, the production of ammunition turned out to be not only a way to earn good money - the technology of mass production of cars was honed on this "material".
In 1912, Citroen, as they say, visited the United States for general development, where in Detroit he was smitten by the Ford plant, which produced 150,000 copies of the now legendary Model T that year - 71 (!) Times more than Renault, the leader in France. Until 1917, about ten cars from various manufacturers were tested on the route between Roanne and the Quai de Javel under normal traffic conditions.
Secretly from everyone, Andre Citroen tested and dismantled such famous American cars as Buick, Nash, Studebaker at his plant, while studying the possibility of mass production, which soon began. In fact, the first CITROEN became at the same time the first mass-produced car in Europe.
Unbelievable, but true: already in the early 1920s, 300 CITROENs were leaving the assembly line of the enterprise on the Javel embankment every day - in those years, the number was unimaginable for Europe. And although Mr. Citroen expressed his desire to start producing cars after returning from America, when his factories were still producing ammunition, and he began preparations for the production of cars, the founding date of the company Citroen Joint Stock Company (Societe anonyme Andre Citroen) is considered to be 1919 , at the end of which the Quai de Javel plant was already producing up to 30 cars a day. Mr. Citroën set as his goal the mass production of inexpensive cars and for this, for the first time in Europe, he applied the "line" (conveyor) method of Henry Ford.
1921 - Citroen creates a special warehouse of spare parts for car owners.
1922 - Clement Bayard's rented factory in Levallois, near Paris, begins production of cars. The production of spare parts, accessories, etc. is also being established there.
citroen_5 cv1923 - The plant in Saint-Charles (Saint-Charles) - 15th district of Paris comes into operation. He starts making gearboxes for the 5CV. At the main plant, on the Javel embankment, the first assembly line is installed, which allows the production of 100 cars per day. The first subsidiary of Citroen Cars Ltd. is registered in London.
1924 - Production begins at the Saint-Ouen factories - model B12 and Epinettes - springs. André Citroën begins to develop an international network for the sale of his cars and creates subsidiaries in Brussels, Amsterdam, Milan, Geneva, Copenhagen, etc. 300 cars are assembled per day.
1925 - Citroen continues to organize a dealer network and begins serious promotions, the first among automobile manufacturers. From this year until 1934, the illumination with his name will burn on the citroen_b_12 Eiffel Tower, the creation of which took 250,000 lamps and 60 kilometers of wires. The total number of dealers reaches 5000 this year! Citroen became the first company in Europe, which already in the 20s had its own dealer network. 1926 - Citroen adopts the Taylor method, whereby each plant will specialize in a particular product. A factory in Grenelle, 15th arrondissement of Paris, begins operations. Citroen publishes for the first time its "standard" dealer service and repair manuals, as well as instructions and lists for replacement parts. parts. At the same time, the first assembly plant in Belgium begins work, the second - in England, and a little later in Germany and Italy.
1927 - Another plant - in Gutenberg (Gutenberg), Paris, created for the production of engines and gearboxes.
1930 - Clichy factory built. Another subsidiary of Norks Citroen A/S is registered in Oslo, Norway.
1931 - The Citroen Transport Joint Stock Company (Societe anonyme des Transports Citroen) is established.
citroen_traction_avant1933 - The global economic crisis has seriously affected the automotive industry in France, but Andre Citroen remains true to his principles. The plan is to produce 1,000 cars a day and launch a completely new front-wheel drive car ("traction avant"), created by Andre Lefebvre and his group.
1934 - The disproportionately large financial costs of the creation and production of the Traction Avant for the period of the Great Depression led Citroen to lose confidence among credit companies and the loss of working capital. The first financial shock hits CITROEN in February 1934. Thanks to the intervention of the Bank of France, commercial banks provide the company with a loan of 10 million francs, but the debt is growing. Between April and September, the company has to pay back 830 million francs to creditors on its old debts. Claims from creditors are starting to come to the courts, and their number is growing like a snowball.
The situation is becoming critical. Under these conditions, in order to prevent bankruptcy, the French government turned to the Michelin company (Michelin) - the main creditor - with a proposal to take the company under its financial control.
From that moment on, Andre Citroen retired and retired to his house. The upheavals of recent years had a strong effect on him and he fell seriously ill.
1935 - In January 1935, Citroen is asked, or rather, forced to transfer a controlling stake in the company and finally removed from business. On January 31, he resigns as president and sole manager of the Andre Citroen Automotive Joint Stock Company. Power at the enterprise passes to a committee consisting of three managers: Pierre Michelin, Paul Franzen and the representative of the suppliers of the metallurgical industry, Etienne de Castel.
Citroen retired to his house, he was no longer seen at the factory - he did not want to play second roles where he had always been the first. In March 1935, Citroen was taken to the hospital with an aggravated ulcer, where he died on July 3 of that year.
And the company named after him was forced to close an assembly plant in Italy due to new customs duties. In the period from 1919 to 1934, Citroen achieved a leading position in the production of automobiles. He was the first in Europe to publish instructions for car repair. This firm was born the idea of providing customers with a one-year warranty and free maintenance during this time, as well as selling cars on credit. Citroen has improved the method of studying sales markets and organized refresher courses for sellers of their cars.
At the same time, care was taken for the image of the brand, which was already flaunted on 185,000 cars. From 1924 to 1934, CITROEN advertisements shone on the Eiffel Tower. Citroen owns the invention of "industrial tourism": he opened the doors of his factories to the public and organized tours of the workshops. Also, a system for the rapid delivery of workers to the plant by buses was created, an automobile insurance company was founded, branches were opened in Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Germany, Great Britain, Sweden and Poland. The last and, perhaps, the main thing that the company is famous for is a series of revolutions that CITROEN made in the world of cars in the 20th century, releasing almost every one of its models. In 1934, CITROEN introduced a fundamentally new model "7cv", now known throughout the world as TA, or Traction Avant (literally in Russian - "Front Drive"). Thus began the era of front-wheel drive cars.
In fact, until 1940, nothing special happened in the company. And this year, a factory on the Javel embankment was bombed and a factory in Belgium was partially destroyed. But still, even during the war, the production of cars did not stop.
In 1947, the restoration of factories after the war was completed and subsidiaries were created in Argentina (Buenos Aires) and Sweden (Stockholm).
Citroen 2cv in 1948 - The Asnieres factory near Paris, purchased from Automobiles Laffly, starts operating. The Levallois plant is completely switching to 2CV production.
1952 - 2CV and H van are assembled in Belgium. A trading company, Citroen Cars Corporation, was established in the United States and another in Morocco.
1953 - A new plant in Rennes-la Barre Thomas, in the province of Brittany, goes into operation. Citroën begins to "decentralize" production. An agreement was signed with Panhard on the partial merger of the distribution network.
1954 - The Asnieres factory starts producing hydraulic systems, primarily for the DS, and from that time on became the main supplier of these systems for all Citroen cars.
1956 - DS assembly begins in Belgium citroen DS
1957 - In Cambodia, start production of vans based on 2CV. Citroen and SCEMM, created in 1950 with the participation of Citroen, sign an agreement on a plant in Mulhouse. Installed the first computer in the company's spare parts department.
1958 - Citroen - Spain opens a plant in Port-au-Vigo and starts producing 2CV. On October 9, the Javel Embankment was officially renamed the André Citroën Embankment.
1959 - Agreements signed with South African companies Atlanta Industries (Pty) Ltd and Stanley Motors Ltd to assemble the DS.
1960 - As part of an intergovernmental agreement between Yugoslavia and France, Citroen signs a contract for the production of 2CV with Tomos. 2CV and Ami assembly begins in Argentina.
citroen AMI 1961 - The plant in Rennes-la Janais, Brittany, begins production of the Ami 6, and in Nonterre (near Paris), at the plant formerly owned by Simca, body parts begin to be manufactured.
1962 Trading companies established in Canada and Austria.
1963 - Caen plant purchased. An agreement was signed with Sedica (Madagascar) on the assembly of 2CV and 3CV. A subsidiary was established in Chile to sell and assemble the 2CV. Type H is beginning to be assembled in Holland.
1964 - In Portugal, the Mangualde plant begins to produce 2CV. An agreement was signed with the German company NSU Motorenwerke on the creation of a rotary piston engine and its production at a joint venture Comobil (Geneva). In Yugoslavia, the Cimos plant (mainly Dayne) starts work.
1967 - Citroen signs an agreement with Berliet. A subsidiary company "Komotor" (Comotor) is created in Luxembourg for the production of rotary piston engines (Wankel engine). One of them will be installed on the M35 prototype in 1969.
1968 - The Citroën Group begins reorganization. The created holding Citroen SA now controls the activities of Citroen, Berliet and Panhard. The holding structure contains more than 20 subsidiaries, including Societe anonyme Automobiles Citroen - production and Societe Commerciale Citroen - sales. Citroen signs a technical and commercial cooperation agreement with Maserati. Agreements are signed between Total (Total) on technical cooperation and with Fiat (Fiat) on the creation of a holding company (PARDEVI), where 49% belongs to Fiat and 51% to Michelin.
1969 - The Metz-Borny plant begins operations, replacing the Saint-Charles plant. Maserati is developing a 6-cylinder engine for the future prestigious Citroen car. The plant in Iran starts assembling a number of models. As part of an agreement with Fiat, Autobianchi products are being sold through the Citroen commercial network, and vice versa in Italy. An international car rental network, Citer, is being created.
1971 - Citroën signs agreements with Inda SA (Paraguay), Quinatar SA (Uruguay) and Aveles Alfaro (Ecuador) to assemble 2CVs and 3CVs. In Steins, he begins to work as a subsidiary of SOGAMM (Societe d "Outillage General Applique aux Moules et Modeles), a former department located at the plant in Clichy. He is entrusted with the task of creating prototypes, components, quality standards, etc. .d.
citroen GS 1972 - In Yugoslavia, Citroen and Tomos sign a production agreement at the Simos plant for the production of 2CV, Dyane, Ami 8, GS and components. A subsidiary is established in Johannesburg. An agreement is signed with STIA for the assembly of 2CV and 3CV. With the Globus Import-Export Company from Iceland for the supply of various models.
1973 - The plant in Aulnay-sous-Bois comes into operation (instead of the plant on the Javel Quay). At that time one of the most modern in terms of equipment. Fiat pulls out of the joint venture and returns its 49% of Michelin, but continues to partner with Citroen in some endeavors.
So the year 1974 came. Probably one of the most significant. Michelin and Peugeot have decided to merge the companies Automobiles Citroen and Automobiles Peugeot. The purpose of this agreement was to create a group that would be competitive in the international market. Berliet withdrew from the Citroen group of companies and entered into an agreement with Saviem, one of the Renault companies. After the production of DS was discontinued, the plant on the Javel embankment, which had been operating since 1919, was closed. 1976 - The Peugeot Group acquired an 89.95% stake in Citroen and created the PSA holding company, which included Citroen SA and Peugeot SA. Citroen entered as an independent branch that retained its brand of passenger cars. In the same year, an agreement was signed on the production of Citroen cars in Romania, with the aim of selling them in Eastern Europe.
1978 - In Spain, the plant in Orence began operation. SMAE (Societe Mecanique Automobile de I "Est) is created in France as a subsidiary of Citroen and Peugeot. A computerized spare parts center is opened to support the Citroen service network. Visa begins to be collected in Belgium. And finally, Fiat, Peugeot and Citroen sign an agreement to develop a new light van.
1979 - Started the Tremery plant for the production of gasoline and diesel engines. It was created on the basis of new principles of organization of production and management. A new computer center for design and production has been launched at the St. Ouen plant. Agreements have been signed in Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and the Central African Republic.
1980 - Plants in Meudon near Paris and SMAN (Societe Mecanique Automobile du Nord) in Valenciennes begin operations. Factory in Belgium closes.
1982 - For 68 years, the company's head office was located on the Quai Javel, but this year it moves to a new location in the town of Neuilly-sur-Seine (Neuilly-sur-Seine) near Paris.
1984 - In Romania, the Oltcit plant begins operation, which was built on the basis of the Franco-Romanian agreement of 1976.
1985 - Citroen changes colors. Now instead of the blue-yellow scale, white and red are used. In December, the plants in Clichy and Nantre stop working.
1986 - After 6 years of financial losses, the prerequisites for "recovery" appear. Citroen introduces Plan Mercure, which aims to drastically increase the quality of production throughout the value chain. The principle of "complete customer satisfaction" is put at the forefront.
1987 - Citroen acquires the Cray XMP/14 supercomputer. A 5-year warranty against perforation corrosion has been declared. At the Tremery plant, assembly of the XU2 gasoline engine has begun on new lines. These lines made it possible to produce 70 different types of engines, including 16 valves. citroen_zx
1989 - Citroën "rebuilds" its Rennes-La Janais plant for final XM assembly. Investments in development amounted to 7.5 billion francs, including 1.2 billion for development and research. Created together with Mazda (Mazda) dealer network begins to sell cars in Japan Citroen.
1990 - Citroën officially returns to motorsport in July with the ZX Rally Raid. In December, a contract was signed with the Chinese corporation SAW. ZX enters the Chinese market.
1991 - The ZX makes its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Citroen announces several programs aimed at improving the quality of work and skills of its employees. Another Cray starts working in the Citroen office. On October 14, Jacques Calvet presents the Citela electric car that REALLY works.
1992 - At the beginning of the year, a new press station is put into operation at the site in Aulnay (6.420 sq.m. 2 pcs. -400 tons and 1400 tons). Basically, body parts for the ZX are made there. In July, the Citroen Institute was opened to improve the skills of the company's employees.
citroen_envasion1994 - The implementation of the Antares project has begun, designed to bring Citroen factories into the top three in their categories in the world. Representative offices in Poland and Hungary are opened in February. In the same month, Xantia wins the 23rd international prize. Evasion appears - a product of cooperation between Fiat, Peugeot and Citroen.
1995 - In January, another project is presented - Magelan. The goal is to sell 100,000 cars outside of Europe in 1997 and 200,000 in 2000. In April, SAME launches the ML gearbox, replacing the ME. At the same time, a new 16-valve 1.7-liter gasoline engine and a compact diesel engine for the Xantia were introduced. The dealer network has 900 points of sale in 77 countries of the world. In September, an agreement is signed on the release of AX with the Malaysian company Proton under their brand name.
citroen SAXO 1996-1997 - The production of cars is increasing. The emergence of SAXO and Xsara. In Poland, SAXO went on sale in November and sold 900 units in one month. Citroen opens its WWW - server. Another agreement is signed with Proton. In December 1997, a license agreement was signed to release Xsara at the Susa plant (Uruguay).
1998 onwards - In January, a new slogan is introduced - "two brands, one group", which, in the opinion of management, more accurately describes the changes in PSA. At the same time, an agreement was signed on the establishment of an assembly plant in Porto Real (Porto Real) in Brazil, designed to strengthen the position of companies in the market of Central and South America. Together with Microsoft and Clarion, Xsara Auto PC was created. The President of Uruguay opened a new line at the assembly plant, where Xsara production began. In Poland, the production of C15 began at the Nysa plant. Berlingo is made in Argentina.
1999 - The millionth Xantia rolled off the production line in Rennes, and the Olney factory produced the millionth Saxo. Historical record - for the first time sold more than 1 million Citroen cars. The HDi engine goes into series on the Xsara. Launch of the joint development of PSA Peugeot Citroen, Renault and Siemens - adaptive automatic transmission (first installed on Xsara 1.6). The long-awaited premiere was marked by Citroen in the luxury segment, C6 Lignage, a prototype of the future flagship, was presented in Geneva. The Pluriel debuted in Frankfurt, the name of this model can be translated as “multiple”, indeed this concept car is one in many faces, it can be a pickup, spider, hatchback and even a convertible. In December 1999, Xsara Picasso was launched on the market with a unique advertising campaign based on the work of the great Picasso (the video "Robot" was highly appreciated by European viewers and experts). Representation of Citroen opens in Russia.
2000 - from February Jumper and Berlingo are equipped with HDi engines. The second generation Xsara is launched into the series, with new 1.6 110 hp engines. and 2.0 137 hp The face of the advertising company was supermodel Claudia Schiffer. Another Citroen record - sales growth amounted to 13.4%. At the Paris Motor Show presented C5, a new model, a new alphanumeric index. The all-new Hydractive 3+ suspension system, a wide range of engines, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a wide range of options led to the advertising campaign being called “100% Useful Technologies”. For the first time for Citroen, this car was equipped with a Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shifting. A Modutop roof is available for the Berlingo, with additional overhead compartments, a fan and five glass windows. The Osmose Concept is presented, a real city car with sliding doors, compact and agile.
citroen XANTIA 2001 - growth continues, Citroen increases sales for the fifth year in a row. 139.000 C5 sold, sales growth of Xsara Picasso was 56%. Olney-sous-Bois has opened the Conservatoire, a 6,700 m3 museum that houses 300 historic Citroen models and concept cars. Xsara WRC debuts on world rally tracks (participation in 4 races), Sebastian Loeb becomes its pilot for the first time. New Citroen presented in Geneva: C5 station wagon, two new engines for the C5: HPi petrol engine (direct injection, 2.0 liters 143 hp), 2.2 HDi engine (138 hp, diesel particulate filter) , as well as an interesting option for the Xsara Picasso - a panoramic glass roof. C3, beauty and hope of the brand, is presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show. On a new platform, with a phenomenal range of options, a high roof and a spacious trunk, the C3 has become the company's new bestseller. At the same salon, the C-Crosser, a new word in the creation of cars, was presented. All-wheel drive, with all wheels steer, it did not have the traditional pedals and steering column. The control was carried out by a special steering wheel, which was connected to the engine, brakes and wheels only by wire. This allows you to abandon the cumbersome controls in the cabin (unsafe in a crash) and make control easier.
2002 - sales growth was 6.3%. The warranty period for all Citroen cars is now 24 months (there is also a program that allows you to double this period). Sales of the new Jumper and Citroen C3 began (185,000 cars were sold during the year instead of the planned 150,000, C3 received many awards). For the first time within the PSA concern, a new automated gearbox appears - SensoDrive. Combining the advantages of manual transmission and automatic transmission, she found her place under the hood of the C3 with a 1.6 16V engine. At the end of the year, the new Berlingo is presented, the main focus of its development was on safety and the study of the exterior / interior. The C3 Pluriel makes its debut, captivating the public with its versatility and winning the Convertible of the Year award. The C8 appears on the market, the successor to the Evasion minivan, also created in cooperation with Fiat and Peugeot. At an exhibition in Paris, the C-Airdream concept is presented, representing the design developments of Citroen, which was also interesting with a fixed steering wheel hub.
2004 - three major events for Citroen:
Double in the World Rally Championship (Constructors' Cup and Sebastian Loeb's first place in the individual standings);
-launch in the C5-II series;
-appearance in the sale of C4.
Both rookies received excellent press and the best scores from EuroNCAP (the C5 had the best result of any car tested). C2, C3, C3 Pluriel sold around the world with a circulation of 518,000 cars (of which 150,000 C2 and 336,000 C3). The C-Airlounge, a prototype of future Citroen models, is presented in Geneva. In March, the C3 XTR, a recreational vehicle, went on sale. The extraordinary popularity in 2004 of the Xsara Picasso was provided by the new 1.6 HDi 110 hp turbodiesel engine, by the end of the year, the total sales of the Xsara Picasso reached 1 million cars (of which 220,000 were sold in 2004). The longevity record was set by the Citroen C15 commercial model, which has been produced since 1984. By the end of the year, Xsara's combined sales reached 1.5 million vehicles.
2005 - the widest model in the history of Citroen, from the mini C1 to the flagship C6. Both of these cars were presented at the Geneva Motor Show to great public response. C1 is of interest to urban residents, for whom compact size, economy and operating costs are in the first place. In addition, the level of safety (4 stars from EuroNCAP) and high consumer properties put this car on a new level in the supermini class. C6 won the sympathy of Europeans back in 1999, when the concept car C6 Lignage was introduced, which went into the series with minor changes. C6 is interesting primarily for its technology and excellent level of safety (including a record 4 stars from EuroNCAP for pedestrian protection). The C6 embodied a new design of hydropneumatic suspension from Citroen - "flying carpet". Even more functional, it allows you to raise passenger comfort to an unprecedented level. Sales record: more than 1 million 395 thousand cars sold worldwide. The European market share increased to 6.7%, in France Citroen won 14% of customers. Record year for Citroen in Germany, with a growth of 20.3%, sales amounted to 80,000 vehicles. For the third year in a row, Citroen wins the Constructors' Cup in the WRC, Sebastian Loeb wins a second championship title, and Dani Sordo wins the JWRC Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) in a C2 Super 1600.
The French company Citroen, which manufactures passenger cars, although it does not top the ratings of the world car markets, represents models in Europe that find many of their admirers. Citroen cars are characterized by chic design and decent technical stuffing at a very reasonable price.
Cars are highly reliable: engines, brakes and control systems are made at the highest level. The motor starts easily at temperatures up to -30 degrees. Most models have a convenient climate control system that works in several directions. The driver and passengers can set their own suitable mode. A comfortable armrest is mounted between the front seats, the position of which can be adjusted. Premium models are equipped with a modern audio system, massage seats, cruise control and air conditioning.
History of Citroen
The history of Citroen will soon celebrate its centenary, and it can be conditionally divided into several eras.
Its creator, André Citroën, spent several years studying possible methods for mass production of cars, testing cars of famous brands and studying their design.
As CTO of Mors automobile firm, Citroen brings together a group of engineers with the idea of creating a powerful new high-end car. In 1919, Citroën founds the Citroën joint-stock company and produces the first and inexpensive mass-produced car produced in Europe at the Paris plant.
This model was a success for its simplicity and ease of handling, was equipped with a soft suspension and a four-cylinder engine.
Further, Citroen is developing rapidly, new car models are being developed, subsidiaries are being created in Europe, an international dealer network is being developed, and the number of factories producing cars is increasing.
In 1934, the revolutionary model Traction Avant was released, which opened the era of front-wheel drive cars. However, its costly production during the Great Depression led the company to financial failure and Citroen came under the complete financial control of Michelin.
In 1948, the company, to please the villagers, produces a budget car, not remarkable either in design or in power, but at the same time inexpensive and highly economical. This model has gained popularity for many years due to its simplicity and low cost of maintenance.
The next stage in the development of Citroen began in 1976, when the PSA holding was created on the basis of Citroen and Peugeot, but Citroen retained its brand of cars.
Where is Citroen assembled?
The desire of the future car owner to know where the Citroen is assembled is quite justified, because the quality and the country of production are currently interconnected.
