The 1967 Citroën Type HZ Ice Cream Vendor: An Authentic model car
This 1967 Citroën Type HZ model car in its ice cream parlor livery represents a true piece of French history. Faithfully reproducing one of the most iconic utility vehicles in our automotive heritage, this collector's item captures the very essence of these vehicles that marked the streets of France for decades.
Designed for vintage car enthusiasts and demanding collectors, this 1/43 scale model car is a must-have for anyone looking to expand their collection of authentic French utility vehicles.
model car Features
- Model: Citroën Type HZ Ice Cream Vendor
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1967
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Authentic ice cream vendor livery
- Protective case included: Yes
The Citroën Type HZ: A Revolutionary Utility Vehicle
Launched in 1947, the Citroën Type HZ was born from Citroën's desire to offer a modern and versatile utility vehicle to meet the needs of post-war reconstruction. Developed on the technical basis of the Traction Avant, this revolutionary van adopted front-wheel drive, a major innovation for a utility vehicle of the time.
The Type HZ stands out for its avant-garde design : monocoque body, transverse front engine, and front-wheel drive give it exceptional stability and maneuverability. Its 1,200 kg load capacity and generous usable volume quickly made it the preferred ally of craftsmen, tradespeople, and public services. The 1967 version benefits from the latest mechanical and aesthetic developments, marking the apogee of this legendary lineage.
Produced until 1981, the Type HZ enjoyed remarkable commercial success, with more than 470,000 units manufactured. Its exceptional versatility allows it to adapt to all professions: ambulance, delivery van, fire engine or, like our model, street vendor.
Citroën: Innovation in the Service of Utility Vehicles
In 1967, Citroën was undergoing a period of intense technical creativity under the leadership of André Citroën and his successors. The chevron brand had already established itself as a pioneer of automotive innovation with the Traction Avant and was preparing for the revolutionary launch of the DS. In this context, the Type HZ perfectly embodied the Citroën philosophy: combining technical audacity with commercial pragmatism.
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the French manufacturer quickly distinguished itself by its ability to democratize technical innovations . From the first mass productions to mechanical revolutions such as hydraulic suspension, Citroën has constantly pushed the boundaries of the automobile. The Type HZ is part of this tradition by transposing the achievements of the Traction Avant to the utility segment, thus creating a new standard for European vans.
The Ice Cream Man: Ambassador of Happiness on Wheels
The ice cream parlor version of the Type HZ holds a special place in the French collective unconscious. These vehicles, recognizable by their melodious chimes and bright colors, punctuated the childhoods of several generations. Equipped with ingenious refrigerated compartments and a side-door distribution system, they represented the technical achievement in the service of culinary pleasure.
The story goes that some ice cream vendors developed real business strategies with their Type HZ. Louis Bertrand, a famous Parisian ice cream maker in the 1960s, had developed a meticulously timed route through the capital's neighborhoods, always arriving at the same times in front of schools and parks. His blue and white HZ had become so familiar that children recognized the sound of its engine from several streets away.
These vehicles also played an important social role in working-class neighborhoods, creating social bonds around shared pleasure . They were often the first to announce the arrival of sunny days and symbolized the carefree nature of summer vacations. Some HZ ice cream vendors even became local figures, their owners being known and appreciated by an entire community.
Today, these authentic vehicles have become extremely rare, which gives this model car an exceptional documentary value. It helps perpetuate the memory of these simple moments of happiness that marked the era of the Trente Glorieuses.
Complete Your Collection of French model cars
This Citroën Type HZ ice cream vendor naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to French utility vehicles . It dialogues perfectly with other emblematic models such as the Citroën Type H or the Renault Estafette , forming a coherent whole representative of French know-how in the field of utility vehicles.
Collectors with a passion for the Citroën universe will particularly appreciate this piece, which perfectly complements the brand's legendary sedans. It also fits in with thematic collections dedicated to 1960s vehicles or vintage commercial vehicles .
This model car is aimed at both experienced collectors and enthusiasts of French automotive history. Its meticulous finish and historical authenticity make it a valuable testimony to an era when French automobiles shone through innovation and creativity. It will also find its place in collections dedicated to light commercial vehicles or authentic French vehicles .
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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