Brilliant as a 2 CV
A van that was in many ways inspired by the 2CV. Solid, simple and intuitive. On Type H, there are a number of ingenious solutions. When the model arrived in 1948, there was a great demand for practical and affordable vehicles. The 2CV and Type H were perfect for their time. In retrospect, one might wonder what made Citroen produce cars with corrugated iron, independent headlights and suicide doors right up until 1981. The reason is, of course, "charm". The same reason why both the Type H and 2CV are popular to this day.
Many names
The unglamorous name "Type H" was given because it was proposal number 8 that was approved. Several variants were made. Many companies specialized in converting the cars for special utility purposes. The cars were lengthened - reinforced - and given different superstructures to serve in private and public industries. Type H often goes by the names "Modell H", "H Van" and "HY". Certain variants were given two-letter designations, such as "HP" for pickup.
Technique
When the Type H was launched, it was ahead of its time. Self-supporting bodywork and front-wheel drive for good use of interior space.
The engines were first taken from the Traction Avant, then from the 1.9-litre engine from the ID19. It produces about 60 HP at 3800 rpm. When I checked cars for sale in central and southern Europe, I got confirmation that the 1911 ccm petrol engine is widespread. A 1.6-litre petrol engine is also found in many cars - with similar performance. From the end of the 60s onwards, there are several cars with diesel engines, with outputs between 50 and 70 HP. It's no racing car, but with front-wheel drive and independent suspension on all wheels, the Citroen was well-equipped to power French country roads at good speed, despite undersized engines.
Hobby car
Here at home, Citroen ended up in the shadow of Volkswagen. As the prices of public transport buses and vans have skyrocketed, more people are beginning to search for alternatives. The Citroen Type H is a good alternative and not as expensive as old VW buses. Citroen is primarily widespread as a Food Truck. As a hobby car, it is also popular as a nostalgic camping car - and of course as vans with old company logos on the side. During production, many parts were taken from contemporary Citroen models. This applies, for example, to lights, switches and instruments. In France, there are still plenty of car collection points with old Citroens in dry climates, and several wear parts are available.
About the pictures
The main picture was taken in a small town in the south of France. The beautiful pickup truck – often called HP – was probably used to transport/pick up vegetables. The car on the trailer is probably a Food Truck project. The picture was taken in Skøyen, Oslo. The turquoise car from "Nermo" was photographed while it was visiting a car repair shop in Øyer. The grey car regularly appears at car shows around Perpignan in France – where the picture was taken. Jamie Oliver's Ice Cream Truck was parked at the Westfields shopping centre at Shepherd's Bush in London. But no ice cream was being sold, as it was the middle of winter.
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