148th anniversary of André Citroën: a moving tribute to the brand's roots in Poland

Last Saturday, February 7, marked a symbolic date for the European automotive industry: the 148th anniversary of the birth of André Citroën. To honor the memory of this extraordinary visionary, the brand with the chevrons chose to organize a particularly moving tribute in Poland. This country represents more than just a dynamic market for the manufacturer; it is truly the founder's second homeland, where the brand's visual identity drew its deepest roots. This event, held in a prestigious setting in Warsaw, highlighted the entirety of Citroën's DNA, elegantly merging a glorious industrial past with a future-oriented vision focused on comfort and technological innovation.

A historic celebration in the heart of Warsaw under the sign of heritage

The commemoration took place at the Citroën showroom located at 206 Krakowska Street in Warsaw, transformed for the occasion into a true sanctuary dedicated to the brand's history. This major event brought together a diverse community of loyal customers, long-time enthusiasts, and representatives of Amicale Citroën Poland. The solemnity of the day was enhanced by the exceptional presence of the French Ambassador to Poland, Étienne de Poncins, highlighting the cultural and diplomatic importance that Citroën represents in the relations between the two nations.

The highlight of the morning was undoubtedly the masterclass lecture organized by Konrad Dula, President of Amicale Citroën Poland, along with prominent club members. Through a well-documented narrative, they transported the audience back to April 1900, during the formative journey of the young André Citroën. Then only 22 years old, the aspiring engineer traveled to Głowno to visit his family. It was in this Polish locality that he observed, in local textile and mechanical factories, wooden gears with a chevron-shaped (or double helical) tread. Struck by the efficiency, silent operation, and durability of this mechanism compared to traditional straight gears, André Citroën immediately understood the industrial potential of such an invention.

He acquired the patent for the machine used to produce these gears and, upon returning to France, launched his own production in steel. This technical success was so fundamental that when he decided to build his own automobiles in 1919, he naturally chose the double chevron pointing upwards as his emblem. This logo, which has spanned decades through several graphic evolutions, remains the timeless testimony of this Polish discovery and the ingenuity of a man who knew how to transform a technical observation into a globally recognized symbol.

From CX and SM to C5 Aircross: the continuity of comfort and boldness

Beyond the history of the logo, the Warsaw event allowed guests to physically admire the evolution of Citroën's philosophy through an exhibition of legendary models. Visitors gazed with emotion at the Citroën CX and the Citroën SM, two models that embody the pinnacle of French engineering from the 1970s. The CX, a true icon of aerodynamics, reminded guests why it was considered the most comfortable sedan of its time. Its hydropneumatic suspension, fluid design, and avant-garde interior remain absolute benchmarks for anyone interested in the history of luxury motoring. Alongside it, the majestic SM bore witness to the brand's technological audacity: this grand touring coupe, born from the union of Citroën's genius and Maserati's noble engine, continues to fascinate with innovations such as the Diravi self-centering steering and directional headlights under glass.

These heritage jewels were not present out of mere nostalgia, but to serve as mentors to the new Citroën C5 Aircross, officially presented during the same day. By placing the latest addition to the range alongside the CX and SM, Citroën perfectly illustrated the transmission of its genes. Although the eras and segments differ, the common link is undeniable: the absolute pursuit of well-being on board. The C5 Aircross takes up the mantle with its "Citroën Advanced Comfort" program, featuring suspensions with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions that are the direct heirs to the smoothness of ride so prized in classic models.

The design of the new SUV, both muscular and protective, fits into this lineage of vehicles that look like no other, prioritizing a strong visual identity and careful aerodynamics. Participants were able to road-test this new version, noting that the high-end driving experience, characterized by top-tier sound insulation and exemplary modularity, remains the central pillar of the brand. This confrontation between past and present demonstrated that the spirit of innovation that drove André Citroën continues to flow through every new project of the manufacturer.

In conclusion, it is rare to find an automotive brand that has remained, more than a century after its creation, so faithful to the values driven by its creator. André Citroën was not just an industrialist; he was a visionary genius and an outstanding communicator who left an indelible mark on world technical history. The celebration of his 148th birth anniversary in Warsaw was not a mere protocol formality, but an event rich in meaning that proved his legacy is still very much alive. By reconnecting the Polish roots of the logo to the contemporary innovations of the C5 Aircross, Citroën confirms that its ability to dare and to offer unrivaled comfort remains its compass for the decades to come.