Citroen Type H, like a plane without wings

From 1948 to 1981, the Citroen Type H enjoyed a very long career from 1948 to 1981, especially thanks to the descendants. This longevity is attributed to its remarkable design, which took place largely during World War II. , secretly from the German occupiers. Taking over from the TUB utility vehicle (with which it should not be confused), the Type H is equipped with an engine/traction gearbox assembly, so benefits from front wheel drive. A big advantage, this lowers the rear significantly which, without a differential, makes it easier to load while maintaining a flat floor.

However, in the immediate post-war period, raw materials were scarce, so we had to find ways to limit their use and produce light to reduce fuel requirements, without sacrificing toughness. So it’s quite natural that Pierre Franchiset, who is in charge of the design of the Type H, is looking to aviation.

Indeed, an aircraft from the early 1930s made an impression as a result of similar appearance requirements: the Junkers Ju 52. Designed entirely in metal, it managed to limit the weight of its cabin without compromising its resistance. how ? Using corrugated metal, which also gives it a very distinctive look. Solid and versatile, if not fast, the Ju 52 enjoyed a successful commercial career, with 352 units also being produced at Columbus in France during the occupation.

Based on this example, the Type H was fitted with corrugated sheet metal, a success as we got a durable, roomy and reasonable vehicle in terms of weight. Moreover, it also comes out with a very distinctive look. Like the Ju 52, the Citroën achieved much commercial success, despite its slow launch, which lasted until 1981.

We’ll find corrugated sheet metal on the sides of the 2CV van, which is also very light. For its part, through its architecture, its flexibility, its useful volume, its practicality and its road qualities, as a result of its advanced running gear, the Type H foreshadowed what medium utility vehicles would become: a revolutionary vehicle in short.

It is not the only French vehicle to owe its appearance to German machines. Indeed, when it was launched in 1947, the Renault 4CV was offered in only one color, a sort of beige. In fact, Billancourt recovered a large quantity of paint originally intended for the Afrikakorps, the division of the German army fighting in North Africa.

Some claim that the addition, which has resulted in the nickname “the lump of butter” owes much of its design to Porsche. We will soon see that the reality is more complicated…