Dreaming of lemons? It is fitting as we approach Boulevard André Citroën. This boulevard carries more than just traffic. It carries the legacy of a visionary.
Boulevard André Citroën is located in Aulnay-Sous-Bois. It is named after the famous car manufacturer André Citroën. He significantly impacted the automotive industry.
André Citroën was born in Paris in 1878. His family name originated from “Limoenman” meaning “Lemon man” in Dutch. His grandfather changed it to Citroën. André studied at the École Polytechnique. He graduated as an engineer.
Citroën’s early career involved a stint in the French army. He encountered double-helical gears in Poland. These gears inspired him. He patented his own version. He founded Engrenages Citroën. This company’s logo featured two chevrons. This logo is still used by Citroën today.
Citroën joined Hinstin Frères Citroën & Cie in 1905. The company sold double helical gears to the automotive industry. Citroën embraced mass production. His gears were used in most French cars. They were even utilized in the steering system of the Titanic.
In 1908, Citroën temporarily managed Mors. He increased production tenfold by 1913. Later, he visited Ford’s River Rouge plant. He was impressed by Ford’s assembly line.
During World War I, Citroën mass-produced shells. His factory produced 20000 shells per day. The Quai de Javel complex became a city. It employed mostly women. Citroën provided support for pregnant workers.
After the war, Citroën shifted to automobile manufacturing. He launched the Type A in 1919. The Quai de Javel factory was Europe’s most modern. It produced 100 vehicles per day in 1919.
In 1933, Citroën rebuilt the factory in five months. This was for the Traction Avant production. Michelin took over Citroën in 1934. André Citroën died in 1935.
The Quai de Javel was renamed Quai André Citroën in 1958. It recognized Citroën’s contribution. The factory produced its last DS in 1975. It was later demolished.
Today, the Parc André Citroën stands on the site. It honors the man and his contributions.
Navigating to Boulevard André Citroën is quite straightforward. Several public transit options are available. The RER B stops nearby. Bus lines 23, 43, and 609 also serve the area. The closest bus stop is André Citroën Centre de Production. It is just a short walk away. The nearest RER station is Parc Des Expositions.
As you traverse Boulevard André Citroën, remember André Citroën. He was an innovator. He transformed transportation. His spirit lives on in every vehicle.