Presidential coach PR2.

Originally built by Carel et Fouché in 1924 as third class
coach C11 for the Est railway, entirely rebuilt in 1954, this carriage was
subject to major modifications by the Villeneuve-Voitures workshops to
improve safety and comfort. Material improvements included armour plating,
soundproofing and air conditioning. The decor and furnishings of the
interior - which includes a platform, a VIL lounge and the president's
office and bedroom - were created by the interior designer Leleu. After
it was commissioned in 1954, the PR2 was frequently used by the presidents
of the Fourth Republic and after 1958 by Général Charles de
Gaulle. After his death in 1970, it was not much used, and retired in 1983.
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Length 22.2 m, weight 56.5 t.
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Mulhouse, Cit&eacute; du Train, 2006-06-02
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<a href="mailto:tbk@uncia.de">tobias b k&ouml;hler</a>