Citroen Bizarro Showcases Its Two-Headed Van, an Intriguing Design Concept

May 09, 2024 03:29 AM EDT

TRAIL MOUNTAIN SNOW THE ALPS, TRUCK — (Photo : PIXABAY/ pasja1000)

The Citroen van features a distinctive dual-front design. Citroen offers the Jumper/Relay LCV with an unconventional setup comprising two front ends. Each cabin is equipped with its own powertrain and gearbox, enabling bidirectional driving capabilities for the vehicle.

Unique as it is: Citroen Bizarro Two-Headed Van

As reported by CarScoops, similar to many large vans, the Citroen Jumper/Relay offers a variety of configurations in terms of length, height, and body styles to suit the requirements of business customers. Among the known versions, there is a unique 'Back to Back' choice where two connected front ends point in opposite directions.

The dual-fronted LCV appears to be a playful creation from a digital artist, but it is a purchasable item. Each cabin is paired with its individual drivetrain, enabling the vehicle to be operable in either direction, provided one section is in neutral. A robust temporary connection links the chassis, ensuring stability for an extended duration.

Concept Explained

As explained by CarScoops, the reason behind Citroen producing a van without rear load space is straightforward: logistics. Certain business clients, such as motorhome and camper manufacturers, solely require the front section of each vehicle as a foundation for their endeavors.

Opting for a 2-in-1 setup reduces shipping durations and expenses, proving advantageous for both the vendor and the purchaser. Moreover, the exclusive Back to Back variant comes equipped solely with two identical 2.2-liter BlueHDi four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engines, each generating 138 hp (103 kW / 140 PS). These engines transfer power to the front wheels on each side through a six-speed manual transmission.

The painted grilles contrasting with unpainted plastic bumpers indicate that the design is derived from the refreshed Jumper / Relay introduced last year in conjunction with Stellantis' revamped range of light commercial vehicles.

The standard equipment is quite simple, featuring 15-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights (without taillights), tinted windows, manual air conditioning, and 5-inch infotainment displays. Nonetheless, purchasers have the option to enhance each cabin by adding additional features and aftermarket accessories during the conversion process.

Citroen Bizarro Two-Headed Van Pricing

As per CarExpert.au.com, the UK market offers this model starting at £36,018 (A$68,385) inclusive of all on-road costs. It is propelled by a 103kW turbo-diesel engine coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Originally posted on Reddit by user dansmith, this dual-fronted Citroen Relay, essentially a rebadged Fiat Ducato, seems tailored for individuals averse to reversing or drivers fascinated by visual tricks.

The report also provided insights into this vehicle. The dual front sections of the Citroen vans are connected at the chassis and sent to external manufacturers specializing in motorhomes, recovery vehicles, and other customized cab-chassis applications that require unique rear installations.

By omitting the conventional cab-chassis rear structure, this approach not only cuts down on transportation expenses-allowing two vehicles to be efficiently shipped in the space of one-but it can also lead to cost savings for both enterprises. Aftermarket firms are relieved from adhering to factory dimensions.

Moreover, since the van is front-wheel drive, there is no need to dismantle driveshafts, and its wiring system is prepped for integrating rear lights. Interestingly, this practice is not a recent development and appears to have been predominantly embraced by French manufacturers.

Renault showcased its Master van at a motorhome exhibition in 2010 using a back-to-back transportation method, and the Peugeot Boxer-essentially the Relay's counterpart-is offered in certain markets with this setup.