A French utility icon serving equestrian passion
This 1958 Citroën Type H model car faithfully reproduces one of the most iconic utility vehicles in the French automotive industry. With its van bodywork specially adapted by Heuliez for transporting horses , this model demonstrates the remarkable versatility of the famous van with its undulating shapes. This collector's item captures the essence of an era when French coachbuilding craftsmanship excelled in tailor-made adaptations.
Intended for collectors passionate about French automobiles and industrial history, this 1/43 scale reproduction is a valuable testament to the technical ingenuity of the 1950s. It perfectly illustrates how a utility vehicle could be transformed to meet the specific needs of different professions and passions.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Citroën Type H horse van
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1958
- Bodybuilder: Heuliez
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Type: Specialized van
- Protective case included: Yes
The Citroën Type H: revolution of the French utility vehicle
Launched in 1947, the Citroën Type H revolutionized the world of commercial vehicles with its revolutionary monocoque construction and distinctive undulating shapes. By 1958, this van had already won over French professionals thanks to its exceptional robustness and remarkable load capacity of 1.2 tonnes. The version presented here benefits from the improvements made during the 1954 modernization, notably the adoption of the more powerful 1.9-liter engine.
The adaptation made by Heuliez for equestrian transport demonstrates the versatility of the Type H chassis. French coachbuilders excelled in this type of transformation, creating tailor-made vehicles for the most specific needs. This horsebox version features specialized interior fittings: reinforced partitions, adapted ventilation, and a non-slip floor to ensure the comfort and safety of the animals being transported.
The Type H's commercial success is due to its legendary reliability and ease of maintenance. Produced until 1981, it marked nearly four decades of French industry, becoming the emblem of craftsmen, traders, and professionals from all walks of life.
Citroën and permanent innovation
In 1958, Citroën confirmed its reputation as an innovator with the Type H, while preparing for the arrival of the revolutionary DS. The chevron brand, founded by André Citroën in 1919, has always distinguished itself by its avant-garde approach to the automobile. The French manufacturer favors bold technical solutions, as evidenced by the early adoption of front-wheel drive and hydropneumatic suspension.
The creation of this Type H corresponds to the golden age of the French automotive industry. Citroën rivaled Peugeot and Renault in technical and commercial innovation. Collaboration with specialized coachbuilders like Heuliez illustrates the flourishing French industrial ecosystem of this period, where manufacturers relied on a network of expert subcontractors to diversify their offerings.
This strategy allows Citroën to offer vehicles adapted to a wide variety of applications, from freight transport to more specialized applications such as this equestrian van. The brand's history is intertwined with that of the modernization of France during the Trente Glorieuses.
The Type H Equestrian Adventure
The adaptation of the Citroën Type H for horse transport met a growing need in France in the 1950s. The post-war period saw the development of equestrian leisure activities and horse shows, requiring suitable means of transport for sport horses. Until then, owners mainly used trailers pulled by often unsuitable vehicles.
Bodybuilders like Heuliez then developed innovative solutions based on the Type H. These equestrian vans revolutionized horse transport by offering unprecedented comfort to the animals: non-slip wooden flooring, padded separation bars, optimized ventilation, and easy access via boarding ramps. Some models even have compartments for storing saddles and equipment.
A delightful anecdote tells of a Norman breeder using his Type H horse trailer to transport his thoroughbreds to Parisian competitions. During a traffic jam on the Champs-Élysées, passersby would stop, intrigued by the whinnying coming from this unremarkable-looking van. The contrast between the elegance of the horses and the rugged simplicity of the Type H was very amusing!
These specialized vehicles contributed to the democratization of horse riding in France. They enabled equestrian centers to expand by facilitating travel for competitions and treks. Even today, some enthusiasts restore these historic vans, witnesses to an era when French craftsmanship excelled in adapting vehicles to the most specific needs.
Complete your collection of French utility model cars
This model car Citroën Type H horse van occupies a special place in the world of French utility vehicles. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to French vans and light commercial vehicles . Its equestrian specificity also makes it an ideal complement to thematic collections dedicated to French trades and leisure activities.
Collectors will appreciate combining it with other versions of the Type H: commercial, fire brigade or advertising versions. It naturally interacts with other Citroën models of the period, particularly contemporary saloons which shared certain mechanical elements.
This piece is aimed at French car enthusiasts, specialist vehicle collectors and industrial history enthusiasts. It demonstrates the ingenuity of French coachbuilders and the legendary versatility of the Type H, a true Swiss Army knife of utility vehicles. At 1/43 scale , it offers a remarkable level of detail that honors the original while blending harmoniously into collections at this popular scale .
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.
What our customers say
Customer feedback and testimonials