The Citroen Mehari is a car that defies conventions. It’s not a sports car, but it’s fun to drive. It’s not a luxury car, but it’s comfortable and practical. It’s not a modern car but still relevant and inspiring.
This year marks the 55th anniversary of the Citroen Mehari, which was presented on 16 May 1968 on the Deauville golf course. The Mehari was a revolutionary vehicle that combined the simplicity and versatility of the Citroen 2CV with the adventurous spirit and style of a beach buggy.
The Citroen Mehari was designed by Roland de La Poype, a French industrialist and former fighter pilot who had the idea of creating a lightweight and durable plastic body for the Citroen 2CV chassis. The result was a car that weighed only 525 kg (1,157 lbs) and could withstand corrosion, scratches, and dents.
The Citroen Mehari was also very adaptable, with a foldable windshield, removable doors, and a convertible roof that could be rolled up or down depending on the weather. The car could seat up to four people and had a large cargo space in the back. It was ideal for leisure activities, such as camping, fishing, or surfing, as well as for professional use, such as farming, military, or rescue operations.
The Citroen Mehari was produced until 1988, with more than 144,000 units sold worldwide. It became an icon of French culture and lifestyle, appearing in movies, TV shows, and comics. It also participated in various rallies and raids, such as the Paris-Dakar and the Liège-Dakar-Liège.
Today, the Mehari is still a source of inspiration for Citroen, which launched the Citroen E-Mehari in 2016, an electric version of the classic car that preserves its original spirit and charm. The Citroen E-Mehari is powered by a lithium-ion battery that delivers 68 hp (50 kW) and has a range of 125 miles (200 km). It can be charged in eight hours using a domestic socket or four hours using a public charging station.
The Citroen E-Mehari is also customizable, with four colors for the body, two for the roof, and two for the interior. It features modern amenities like air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen display. It also has a high level of safety, with ABS, ESP, and four airbags.
The Citroen E-Mehari is a tribute to the legacy of the Mehari, which remains one of the most original and fun cars ever made. The Citroen Mehari is more than just a car; it’s a way of life that celebrates freedom, adventure, and joy.
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