The Citroen Type H is officially celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2017. In case you’re not familiar, the Type H is that boxy, corrugated old van currently very much beloved of food vendors aiming to give their culinary creations a folksy, authentic vibe.
To commemorate this milestone, Citroen has rescued one from such hipster humiliation – and turned it into a promotional vehicle for a French sportswear brand instead.
That this brand is Le Coq Sportif is something we’re absolutely not going to make any jokes about. Cockerels aren’t that funny, after all.
Anyway, this funked-up H van gets its international debut at the 2017 CV Show in Birmingham, alongside a matching version of the latest Citroen Dispatch, finished in the same colour scheme and style.
So what’s special about these Le Coq Sportif Citroen vans?
Both Type H and Dispatch have been converted into mobile bicycle repair wagons, but can do double duty as clothing workshops when required.
The white, red and blue colour scheme reflects Le Coq Sportif’s traditional branding, which is in turn modelled after the French flag. This is carried over into the cab of the Dispatch, which has white leather seats with red and blue stitching, intended to give the modern van a luxury ambience.
The Type H is upholstered in chocolate brown leather in the cab, and a selection of light woods in the rear for a sense ‘authenticity and nostalgia’ and ‘a warm simple feel.’
Both feature ‘Citroen X Le Coq Sportif’ and 70th anniversary logos.
Beyond the CV Show, what else is planned for them?
Turns out that Le Coq Sportif started using a Type H as a promo vehicle at cycling events five years ago, so this new pairing is an extension of that activity.
After they’re done wowing the crowds in Birmingham they’ll be appearing together at many more Le Coq Sportif events.
Got a couple of minutes? Then watch both vans in action in this short video.
Citroen Type H facts
If you want more info on the latest Citroen Dispatch you can enjoy the full Parkers Vans review by clicking here.
As for the Type H, check this out:
- Launched: 1947 Paris motor show
- Production: 1948-1981
- Number built: 473,289
- Dimensions: 4.28m long, 1.96m wide, 2.34m high
- Engine: 1.6-, 1.8- or 1.9-litre (depending on year)
- Power: 42-59hp
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive, three-speed manual transmission
- Payload: up to 1,500kg (depending on year)
- Loading length: 2.44-4.24m
Everything about the 2017 CV Show on Parkers Vans
