Citroën TUB black MICHELIN - An exceptional model car
The model car black MICHELIN Citroën TUB represents one of the most iconic utility vehicles in the French tire industry. This faithful reproduction captures the essence of this legendary van that traveled the roads of France for decades, proudly displaying the colors of the famous Michelin-star brand.
This exceptional model car is aimed at passionate collectors of French automobiles and fans of industrial history, offering a precious testimony to an era when utility vehicles were true ambassadors of the brands they served.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Citroën TUB
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1950s-1960s
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Black with MICHELIN markings
- Protective case included: Yes
The Citroën TUB: a revolutionary utility vehicle
Launched in 1947, the Citroën TUB (Traction Utilitaire B) marked Citroën's entry into the modern era of utility vehicles. Derived from the famous Traction Avant, this revolutionary van adopted the same front-wheel-drive architecture that had made its saloon cousin so successful, a remarkable technical innovation for a utility vehicle of the time.
The TUB stood out for its avant-garde design , its low floor for easy loading, and its impressive carrying capacity of 1,200 kg. Its all-steel body and legendary robustness quickly made it the preferred companion of French craftsmen, merchants and businesses. The MICHELIN version, with its characteristic black livery, perfectly embodied the tire brand's spirit of service and quality.
This vehicle enjoyed remarkable commercial success until 1962, establishing itself as an essential reference for light transport in France and contributing significantly to post-war economic reconstruction.
Citroën: innovation at the service of mobility
In the 1950s, Citroën consolidated its reputation as an innovative manufacturer under the leadership of André Citroën and later Pierre Boulanger. The brand with the chevrons was experiencing a prosperous period, driven by the success of the Traction Avant and the imminent arrival of the revolutionary DS. The TUB was perfectly in line with this philosophy of technical innovation applied to all segments of the automotive market.
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the brand quickly established itself as a technological pioneer in the French automotive industry. From the first European car to be mass-produced on an assembly line to revolutionary innovations such as hydropneumatic suspension, Citroën has continually pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering, making the TUB a vital link in this chain of continuous innovation.
The epic of Michelin Man on the roads of France
The Citroën TUB MICHELIN was much more than just a service vehicle: it had become the tire brand's rolling ambassador. These black vans crisscrossed France, transporting precious Michelin tires to garages and dealers, as well as to the racing circuits where the Clermont-Ferrand-based brand was writing its greatest pages of sporting glory.
A funny anecdote tells that in 1955, during the 24 Hours of Le Mans , a MICHELIN TUB remained permanently in the pits to provide ultra-fast tire service. The vehicle had become so iconic that spectators came to admire it as much as the racing cars! This proximity to motor racing reinforced the image of performance and reliability of MICHELIN products.
The drivers of these TUBs were considered true brand ambassadors . They knew their customers personally, advised on tire selection, and actively participated in building MICHELIN's reputation for excellence. Some of these vehicles traveled more than 500,000 kilometers, testifying to the exceptional robustness of Citroën mechanics and the quality of French manufacturing at the time.
Even today, collectors fight over authentic MICHELIN TUBs , which have become true automotive museum pieces, symbols of a prosperous and innovative industrial France of the Trente Glorieuses.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This model car of the Citroën TUB MICHELIN naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to French utility vehicles or iconic advertising models. It harmonizes perfectly with other Citroën models such as Citroën model cars or the famous Citroën Type H that shared the roads with the TUB.
Collectors passionate about advertising vehicles will particularly appreciate this piece, which is part of the lineage of vintage advertising vehicles . It is the ideal addition to a collection of light utility vehicles or model car vans , offering a complete overview of the evolution of light transport in France.
This model car will appeal to seasoned collectors as well as to automotive history enthusiasts, MICHELIN brand enthusiasts or those nostalgic for the 1950s . Its careful finish and historical authenticity make it a piece of choice to enrich any collection of French model cars .
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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