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Citroën Unveils Polarising Retro Type Holidays Teaser at Düsseldorf Caravan Show

At first glance, the Type Holidays camper, derived from and built on the frame of the Citroën SpaceTourer, seems to be a restored 1940s Type G. But it is most definitely not. This vehicle, which can best be described as bold, is essentially a modern vehicle dressed in an old-fashioned skin, like a grandson wearing grandad’s suit to the prom: a Steampunk Tesla. We are on the fence whether we love it or not. Is this a face that only a French mother could love? But, we are grateful that it exists as, if nothing else, it exudes character and nostalgia. Citroën has chosen the prestigious stage of the Düsseldorf Caravan Show to reveal the Type Holidays teaser—a homage to the legendary Type H van, reimagined for contemporary explorers. The name, however, we just can’t get behind; it sounds like it was generated via Google Translate, which it most likely was.

The Type Holidays promises all the comforts and smart features of top-tier camper vans, and the unveiling of the Type Holidays teaser marks Citroën’s bold move to expand its presence in the thriving converted camper van market. It signals the forthcoming arrival of a dedicated range named Holidays, available through the Citroën network, with further details set to be unveiled by the end of 2023.

Citroën has a long-standing tradition of championing the spirit of freedom and mobility, apparently. The brand’s expertise in crafting French vehicles has made it a player in the European leisure vehicle market, trailing somewhere on the list behind Fiat, Adria, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Hymer, Bürstner, and Knaus. But, if the press release is to be believed, Citroën ranks as the second-largest supplier of motorhome-based vehicles in Europe. Unfortunately, our research cannot confirm this assertion (and Citroën is not even the most popular camper in France, it seems).

Regardless, the Type Holidays teaser promises the timeless “eye of the beholder” appeal of the Citroën Type H with the modern practicality of the SpaceTourer, offering an interior arrangement that will soon be accessible through the Citroën network under the Holidays banner. This innovative concept underscores Citroën’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of today’s adventure seekers, who already may or may not own a Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Citroën has stated that the foray into the camper van domain builds upon previous successes, including concepts like Hyphen, Rip Curl, and the Citroënist. With the Type Holidays concept, Citroën is announcing a robust commitment to the camper van market, which is experiencing remarkable growth globally.

The Type Holidays boasts all the attributes of the Citroën SpaceTourer: spaciousness, comfort, quiet operation, dual-sliding-side doors for easy entry and ventilation, and an independently opening tailgate window. It caters to up to four passengers, providing everything needed for a memorable escape.

To outfit the van, Citroën enlisted the expertise of Bravia Mobil, a leading Slovenian specialist. The Type Holidays comes equipped with a pop-up roof that creates a spacious interior, complete with a large bed for two during nighttime mode. A versatile two-row bench seat converts into a two-person bed and is easily removable to free up storage space. The two front seats swivel toward the living area, and a well-appointed kitchenette with cooking facilities, sink, and fridge. The camper also features a foldable table for dining or working, along with multiple storage cupboards and a Webasto heating system, which is essential for winter travel in Europe. Unless, of course, you plot a course to southern Spain or Portugal, which is where most of these vans will inevitably be spotted crammed with white wine, cheese, and olives. We are unsure if there will be space in the market for this Citroën in North America.

From August 25 to September 3, 2023, visitors to the Düsseldorf Caravan Show, one of the world’s premier leisure vehicle events, can witness the Citroën Type Holidays teaser in all its divisive glory. This unique vehicle foreshadows the arrival of a comprehensive Holidays range, soon to be available through the Citroën network. We can’t wait for it. Price is to be confirmed.

citroen.fr

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Graeme Bell is an author and explorer who has dedicated his life to traveling the planet by land, seeking adventure and unique experiences. Together with his wife and two children, Graeme has spent the last decade living permanently on the road in a self-built Land Rover based camper. They have explored 27 African countries (including West Africa), circumnavigated South America, and driven from Argentina to Alaska, which was followed by an exploration of Europe and Western Asia before returning to explore the Americas. Graeme is the Senior Editor 4WD for Expedition Portal, a member of the Explorers Club, the author of six books, and an Overland Journal contributor since 2015. You can follow Graeme's adventures across the globe on Instagram at graeme.r.bell