Țiriac Collection hosts live demonstrations with 1899 Hurtu 3 ½ Quadricycle on July 18–19

Țiriac Collection celebrates French National Day over the weekend of July 17–19, 2015, by showcasing the French models included in its gallery. On both Saturday and Sunday, live operation demonstrations will be held at the gallery in Otopeni, located at 289 Calea Bucureștilor, featuring the 1899 French-built Hurtu 3 ½ Quadricycle — the oldest exhibit in the Țiriac Collection and the oldest known surviving example of a Hurtu vehicle. Demonstrations will take place on Saturday at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and on Sunday at 12:00 PM.

Alongside numerous automobiles from prestigious French marques such as Citroën, Renault, Bugatti, and Delahaye, visitors will also be able to admire two historically significant French vehicles displayed outside the gallery: a 1908 Renault AX Phaeton and a 1988 Citroën 2CV Charleston.

The Renault AX, first unveiled at the 1908 London Motor Show, gained popularity as a compact, economical car—earning it the nickname "deux-pattes" ("two-legs"). It became famous for its use by the taxi company Société des Automobiles de Place, and later, in 1914, it was repurposed by the military to transport troops to the frontlines during World War I—earning the legendary title “Taxi de la Marne.”

The Citroën 2CV, a hallmark of French automotive engineering, was conceived by Citroën’s Vice President Pierre Boulanger to aid French farmers who still relied on horse-drawn carts. Introduced at the 1948 Paris Motor Show and produced until 1990, the 2CV stood out for its minimalist design and innovative engineering solutions, making it a remarkably practical utility vehicle. Its iconic body featured a roll-back canvas roof, allowing it to transport oversized cargo. After 1974, it evolved into a cultural icon among the youth, becoming both a style statement and a practical transportation solution.

Children will also be part of the celebration during the French National Day weekend at Țiriac Collection. On Saturday, July 18, a sidewalk chalk drawing competition will be held for kids. The top three winners will each receive a ride in the Citroën 2CV. The contest rules are available online.