Citroën’s Double-Fronted Vans: A Clever Solution
Have you seen photos of vans with two front ends bolted together? It looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s real! Citroën, along with Fiat (which is part of the same parent company), offers a unique solution for commercial vehicle builders: vans manufactured with two front ends connected.
This unusual configuration is called the “Relay Back-To-Back” by Citroën, based on the Fiat Ducato, which is also sold as the Ram ProMaster, Citroën Jumper, and Peugeot Boxer. The question is: why?
The Chassis Cab and the “Back-To-Back” Concept
If you’re in the business of building specialty vehicles, you’re likely familiar with the chassis cab or cutaway van. These provide the frame, drivetrain, and often the front cab of a van or truck, allowing builders to create motorhomes, ambulances, tow trucks, and more.
However, Fiat’s “Back-To-Back” goes a step further. Instead of a chassis cab, builders can purchase the front end of a van without any chassis or wheels behind the cab. This offers greater flexibility in the design and construction of custom vehicles.
Streamlined Production and Transportation
The primary reason for the “Back-To-Back” configuration is to make these vehicles easier to ship. By connecting two front ends, manufacturers can fit two van cabs into the space typically occupied by one fully assembled van.
The vehicles are transported with one end in neutral. Then, drivers can easily move the rig onto a transport vehicle, creating a more space-efficient shipping method.
A Solution for Specialty Builders
This approach is particularly useful for businesses that specialize in building motorhomes, tow trucks, or other custom vehicles. By purchasing only the front end of the van, these builders have maximum flexibility in designing the rear section of the vehicle to meet their specific needs.
The Price of a Third of a Van
For those interested in owning a piece of this unique automotive solution in Europe, Citroën offers the front third of a van for approximately £36,018 ($45,130). Add a bit more, around 800 Euros, if you want the unit with a chassis and rear wheels.
This ingenious approach isn’t just for the builders. It streamlines logistics and gives specialists flexibility.
