Model Car Citroën Type H Grey - 1200 Kg Van - Hachette Book
Echelle: 1/43ème
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Citroën Type H 1200 Kg - A French Icon in Miniature
This Citroën Type H miniature in grey livery perfectly captures the essence of one of the most iconic utility vehicles in French automotive history. Released by Hachette as part of its collections dedicated to French road heritage, this faithful 1/43 scale reproduction is a valuable testament to the golden age of light utility vehicles in France.
A true collector's item, this miniature appeals to both car enthusiasts and fans of French industrial history, perfectly embodying the practical and ingenious spirit that characterized Citroën vehicles of that era.
Miniature Features
- Model: Type H Van 1200 Kg
- Brand: Citroën
- Period: 1947-1981
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Grey
- Manufacturer: Hachette
- Protective case included: Yes
The Type H: A Revolution in Utility Transport
Launched in 1947, the Citroën Type H revolutionized the utility vehicle world with its innovative approach. Designed by Pierre Franchiset, this van adopts a forward-thinking architecture with its fully metal monocoque body and characteristic corrugated walls, quickly earning the affectionate nickname of "accordion".
The 1200 kg version is one of the most versatile variants in the range, offering a perfect balance between payload capacity and urban maneuverability. Its 1.9-liter 4-cylinder engine, borrowed from the Traction Avant, ensures remarkable reliability while its front-wheel drive provides excellent road holding.
During its 34 years of production, the Type H became the backbone of French commerce, equipping artisans, traders, and public services. Its exceptional modularity allows for countless adaptations, from a simple delivery van to a family camper.
Citroën in the Post-War Years
The era of the Type H corresponds to a pivotal time for Citroën. Under the guidance of André Citroën then Pierre-Jules Boulanger, the brand with the chevrons continued its philosophy of accessible innovation. The Type H fits perfectly within this approach, offering practical and economical solutions to support French reconstruction.
This period sees Citroën consolidate its image as a bold manufacturer capable of revolutionizing both tourism cars with the Traction Avant and utility vehicles with the Type H. The French company then asserts its particular genius for designing vehicles that are both rational and infused with a strong aesthetic personality.
A Star Despite Himself in French Cinema
Beyond its utility qualities, the Type H quickly conquered the hearts of the French and became a genuine cultural phenomenon. Its recognizable silhouette quickly made it a preferred extra in French cinema, appearing in countless films of the New Wave and popular comedies.
One of the most delightful anecdotes concerns its use by the French secret services in the 1960s. Its very ordinariness made it the perfect surveillance vehicle: who would suspect a simple bread deliveryman could harbor sophisticated listening equipment? This natural discretion partly explains why so many fictional spies drive similar vans.
The Type H also became the emblem of May 68, transporting both paving stones and revolutionary leaflets. Its legendary robustness allowed it to endure this tumultuous period without flinching, confirming its reputation as an indestructible companion of everyday French life.
Even today, restored Type H models make a sensation at vintage gatherings and gastronomic festivals, transformed into trendy food trucks. This second life testifies to the lasting affection the French have for this vehicle, which has become a symbol of an era when French ingenuity shone around the world.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This Type H miniature naturally finds its place at the heart of collections dedicated to the French automotive heritage. It perfectly dialogues with other Citroën creations, notably reproductions of DS and Traction Avant, illustrating the stylistic evolution of the brand over the decades.
Collectors will also appreciate pairing it with other French vehicles from the same era, creating a true panorama of post-war reconstruction. It harmonizes particularly well with contemporary Peugeot and Renault utility vehicles, reflecting the creative dynamism that animated the French automotive industry at the time.
This Hachette reproduction will appeal to both newcomers discovering the world of 1/43 scale miniatures and seasoned collectors looking for emblematic pieces of hexagonal road heritage.
Même marque : Citroën
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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