Citroën Type HY Blue 1963 - EDF 1500 kg Cable Reel Carrier
Scale: 1/43rd
PLEASE NOTE: the first image is a computer-generated render and may not exactly match the vehicle in this listing, so please check the photos that follow it.
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Get it between Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November
This 1963 blue Citroën Type HY miniature with 1500 kg cable-reel flatbed in EDF livery is an authentic piece of French commercial automotive history. Scaled at 1/43rd, this collector's piece faithfully captures the spirit of the service vehicle that was a familiar sight on French roads for decades.
A genuine collector's item for enthusiasts of French cars and industrial history, this miniature recalls an era when French public companies ran their own fleets of specialised vehicles, symbols of a France in the midst of modernisation.
Launched in 1947, the Citroën Type HY was born from the need for a modern utility vehicle to serve the rebuilding of post-war France. Designed by engineer Pierre Franchiset, this revolutionary van featured a monocoque construction with corrugated sheet metal, giving it exceptional strength while remaining relatively light.
The 1963 model presented here perfectly illustrates the versatility of the Type HY, adapted to the specific needs of EDF with its 1500 kg cable-reel flatbed. This particular configuration allowed the transport and handling of heavy reels of electric cable, essential to the development of France's electrical grid in the 1960s.
With its impressive payload and legendary robustness, the Type HY quickly became the indispensable work tool of French craftsmen, shopkeepers and public services, actively contributing to the economic expansion of the Trente Glorieuses.
In 1963, Citroën was going through a period of intense technical innovation under the leadership of André Citroën and later Pierre-Jules Boulanger. The chevron brand distinguished itself by its ability to create avant-garde vehicles, as shown by the simultaneous development of the revolutionary DS, launched in 1955.
This era marked the height of the Citroën philosophy: building technically advanced cars that were within reach of as many people as possible. The Type HY fitted perfectly into this approach, offering professionals a reliable and economical work tool while retaining the spirit of innovation that defines the French marque.
1963 was also a period of strong expansion for Citroën, which was developing its international operations while strengthening its position in the French market for light commercial vehicles.
The story of this Citroën Type HY in EDF colours takes us back to a time when France was undergoing a genuine energy revolution. In 1963, EDF (Électricité de France) was expanding rapidly, electrifying the French territory on a massive scale as part of the national electrification plan.
These cable-reel flatbeds were true ambassadors of modernity on French roads. Their drivers, often nicknamed the "flying electricians", travelled across France installing the power lines that would transform everyday life for the French. Every mission was an adventure, especially in rural areas where the arrival of electricity was a considerable technological leap.
It is said that in Brittany, the arrival of one of these blue EDF Type HYs in a village was an event in itself. Children ran behind the vehicle, curious to discover the mysterious cable reels that would bring the "fairy electricity" into their homes. The driver became a temporary local celebrity, invited to explain this technological revolution to the fascinated villagers.
This social and cultural dimension of the EDF Type HY makes it far more than a simple utility vehicle: it embodies an entire era of transformation for French society, when technology and progress carried hope and modernity.
This Citroën Type HY EDF miniature fits naturally into a collection dedicated to French commercial vehicles or public service cars. It pairs perfectly with other iconic models such as the Renault Estafette or the Peugeot D3A and D4B, which shared French roads in that period.
Collectors passionate about Citroën vehicles will especially appreciate this specialised version of the Type HY, which nicely complements a collection that includes standard van versions, ambulances or fire engines. This miniature also fits perfectly into a themed collection on EDF and public service vehicles.
Aimed at discerning collectors as well as enthusiasts of French industrial history, this miniature stands out for its authenticity and documentary value. It will particularly interest fans of light commercial vehicles and makes an excellent starting point for a themed collection of French cars of the 1960s.
Stephane Bazille
14 November 2026
Always delivered within the agreed deadlines, well-packaged and protected materials. Nothing negative to report. A constantly renewed range that, despite the intention to remain cautious, always finds new temptations...
Claude Lang
13 November 2026
I placed my second order and everything went smoothly, delivery without issues, items in good condition, and delivered on time. After this second order, I can only recommend the site to Bernardminiature, a serious person. Top delivery, thanks again to him and good for a next order.
Serge PINSON
12 November 2026
In addition to the fact that the 1/43 miniatures received are perfectly in line with the photographs and my expectations and are of great finesse, they arrived very quickly (I was even informed of the shipment) and very carefully packaged. Very satisfied, I placed a new order with Bernard Miniatures, a seller I recommend for their selection and reliability.
The scale is the reduction ratio between the real car and the model. At 1:43 scale, for example, every centimetre of the model represents 43 centimetres of the real vehicle.
In practice, a 1:18 Ferrari model is about 25–30 cm long, while at 1:43 it measures roughly 10 cm.
Our model cars mainly come in 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and 1:87 (HO) scale. The scale is always listed on the product page.
The smaller the second number, the bigger the model (e.g. 1:18 is larger than 1:43).
Yes, every model car ships in its protective box. The box preserves its collector value and protects your model from dust and knocks.
We pack every order with great care: bubble wrap, snug padding and polystyrene. Your model car is fully secured on its way to you.
In-stock items ship within 24–48h. Allow 2–3 business days for mainland France with Colissimo, or 4–5 days with Mondial Relay.
I can't say exactly when new stock will arrive, as it comes in a trickle. Feel free to contact me and I'll let you know as soon as it's available.