On the other side of the pond, many motorists see the Citroën Type H as the world’s most iconic cargo van. But the quirky French truck remains virtually unknown in the USA. A post-war production run between 1947 and 1981 focused primarily on the European market, with over 470,000 vehicles put on the continent’s roads. Fortunately for Americans discovering the bulldog van, most HY vans were produced with left-hand drive.
The HY Van’s unique design and construction set it apart from every other van. The innovative front-wheel-drive architecture allowed for maximum cargo space with a large flat floor. Form follows function, with suicide doors for the driver and passenger, and flat corrugated metal body panels that delivered structural strength. Citroën built short- and long-wheelbase variants to suit a range of needs, with and without raised roofs. Citroën offered a pickup truck version, as well.
You might not consider the Citroën H-Type Van to be très belle, but you cannot deny that its design is unique. Many have found a second life as food trucks and coffee wagons.
The Citroën HY Van’s drivetrain is quaint by today’s standards, with a 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a three-speed manual transmission (lacking synchromesh) in its first gear. The fully-independent suspension, on the other hand, pushed the boundaries of truck engineering for its time.
If pokey trucks aren’t your thing, you’ll want to consider an engine swap. The HY’s four-banger delivers a paltry 52 horsepower from the factory. The engine’s meager output and the drivetrain’s short gearing limits top speed to 68 miles per hour. That provides enough grunt for hauling stuff around town, but you’ll do well to avoid the interstate.
Owning an H van isn’t like having a tooth pulled. Citroën parts - opens in new window or tab. are available on eBay Motors.
The outfit’s 1977 H-Type takes a more conservative path, with a moss green exterior and beige roof, accented by white steel wheels and bumpers. The cab’s interior paintwork is beige and black, with moss green dash inserts and saddle brown upholstery, while steel gray paint covers the cargo area.
In Gear Motors offers an eclectic collection of vehicles, specializing in American and European classics, from post-war models through the 1970s. Its inventory includes a steady stream of cool old trucks and Detroit muscle, as well as a delightful collection of French, German, and Italian iron.
If you dig the HY Van’s look but have a limited budget, you might consider fitting an H-type-inspired front fascia on a classic JDM Kei van - opens in new window or tab.. Or just wait a few months for Citroën's potential return to the US. The company exited the American market after the oil crisis in 1973. But the brand could come back when Groupe PSA (Peugeot-Citroën) completes its planned merger with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in early 2021.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.