Citroën Rosalie, the first diesel passenger car
Roundabout 1932, Andre Citroën, whose company was at the time drowning in debt, contracted the renowned British engine designer Harry Ricardo to create diesel-powered versions of Citroën motor cars, specifically the Traction Avant’s predecessor, the Rosalie. Prototypes showed great promise, but it was too late. In December 1934, Citroën fell into bankruptcy, and Michelin, its cautious primary shareholder, killed the oil-burning Rosalie. (Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroën)
Roundabout 1932, Andre Citroën, whose company was at the time drowning in debt, contracted the renowned British engine designer Harry Ricardo to create diesel-powered versions of Citroën motor cars, specifically the Traction Avant’s predecessor, the Rosalie. Prototypes showed great promise, but it was too late. In December 1934, Citroën fell into bankruptcy, and Michelin, its cautious primary shareholder, killed the oil-burning Rosalie. (Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroën)
