The Citroën H Van reborn for its 70th anniversary is a faithful tribute to the legendary HY, built by Fabrizio Caselani and David Obendorfer on a modern Citroën Jumper platform. It marries the unmistakable corrugated body and twin-stripe grille of Flaminio Bertoni's 1947 classic with the reliability, safety and comfort of a brand new van, so collectors can enjoy the iconic silhouette without the headaches of restoring an original.
What is the 70th Anniversary Citroën H Van?
This homologation was built by Caselani and Obendorfer as a tribute to the famous Citroën HY van introduced 70 years ago. The exterior design was penned by Flaminio Bertoni in 1947 and remains one of the most sought-after classic vans in the automotive world. As covered by designboom, the project captures the soul of the original rather than copying it line for line.
Is the new Citroën H Van easier to own than the original?
While it remains difficult and expensive to find an original Citroën H Van for sale, this brand new rendition solves the problems of running a classic car. There is no engine conversion to worry about because everything inside is brand new. The platform is based on the latest Citroën Jumper vans, so all the modern technology and features are kept, ensuring a comfortable and reliable method of transport that looks like it has traveled through time. Instead of a rusty 1947 diesel, the Type H uses a 1,998 cc diesel engine producing 110 to 160 hp, for better power delivery, much improved fuel economy and reliability. Additional features include ESP, ABS, airbags and Emergency Brake Assist.
How did they recreate the classic look?
To preserve the classic look and history of the H Van, the duo stripped down the chassis and reinvented the van using fiberglass paneling. The result is a gorgeous classic appearance that honors Bertoni's timeless 1947 work, with the famous twin-striped logo covering the front grille. The interior benefits from the donor van and features air conditioning, a sliding door, electric windows, an adjustable driver's seat and a passenger bench seat. This new Citroën H Van is a limited run of only 70 units sold in Italy, though Caselani and Obendorfer have big plans for their renaissance product, offering it in many versions: Panel Van, Minibus, Four-Wheel Drive, Campervan, Food Truck, Tow Truck and Camper.
Who is the Citroën H Van for?
Such an extensive list of versions ensures there is a Citroën H Van for everyone, whether you are planning your next adventure or running a catering service. This modern classic turns heads wherever it goes, and it will not become a money-pit of repair and maintenance costs. For more information on the 70th Anniversary Citroën H Van, visit the official builder at en.typeh.eu.
Discover modern classics at TheArsenale
If the reborn Citroën H Van speaks to your love of design and heritage, TheArsenale curates a selection of restomods that bring classics back to life. Explore the Nardone 928 Porsche 928 restomod, the Project M Ferrari 308 GTS restomod, and the Rezvani Retro RR1 750 restomod SUV. Browse the full TheArsenale car collection for more icons reimagined for today.
Looking for your own modern classic? Discover the complete TheArsenale car collection and find the icon that turns heads wherever it goes.
