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Citroen 2CVs hidden in WWII

Four pre-war prototype 2CVs will be on show alongside the contemporary Citroen REVOLTe concept.

These 2CVs will resurface this month at an international 2CV event. Organisers expect a record-breaking global gathering of Citroen 2CVs at the 19th International "Amis de la 2CV" (Friends of the 2CV) event on July 26-31.

The gathering is expected to attract more than 6000 examples of the legendary and iconic Citroen model. Held every two years, the meeting attracts participants from all over the world who come together to celebrate one of Citroen's longest-running success stories.

The 2011 event will be held on a 60-hectare site near Salbris in Central France. Four pre-war prototype 2CVs will be on show alongside the contemporary Citroen REVOLTe concept - a small, electric city car that has been inspired by the 2CV's distinctive silhouette.

Originally developed in the 1930s, most of the 250 prototype 2CVs were destroyed before war. Only three were hidden to stop them falling into enemy hands. The fourth was stored by Michelin. The 2CV was finally unveiled at the 1948 Paris Motor Show, before going on to enjoy a fantastic career with 5,114,940 units sold between 1948 and 1990.

Activities at the event will include a 2CV "disassemble-reassemble" competition; a bring-and-buy sale; various children's events; and the use of driving simulators.