The Citroen Ami, a compact and quirky electric vehicle, is set to receive a facelift for the 2025 model year. However, for those seeking a more distinctive and retro aesthetic, the newly unveiled Type-Ami conversion kit offers a unique solution. This transformation, the brainchild of Italian coachbuilder Caselani in collaboration with the Citroen Style Center, reimagines the Ami as a charming throwback reminiscent of post-war French automotive design. The Type-Ami effectively transports the tiny EV back in time, evoking images of classic vehicles traversing the French countryside.
The design behind this retro makeover comes from David Obendorfer, a designer with a proven track record of reimagining iconic Citroen models. His portfolio includes reinterpretations of classic Citroens, as well as conceptual designs, such as the Mercedes-Benz Icon E W115 and BMW CS Vintage tributes, that, while not yet realized, demonstrate his talent for blending classic design elements with modern technology. Obendorfer is also the creative force behind the Type H and Fourgonnette van conversions, which successfully modernized the Citroen Jumper, Jumpy, SpaceTourer, and Berlingo while preserving their vintage charm. The Type-Ami draws its inspiration from the Citroen Type H (HY), a beloved utility van produced by Citroen from 1947 to 1981. The Type H, with its distinctive corrugated metal body, became a symbol of post-war France and remains a highly sought-after classic.
The Type-Ami conversion achieves its retro transformation through the use of custom-designed fiberglass body panels. These panels meticulously replicate the corrugated metal texture that characterized the original Type H, instantly transforming the Ami's appearance. The conversion kit includes all the necessary brackets and screws for installation, simplifying the process while ensuring a secure and professional fit. Importantly, the kit is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Ami's existing structure, leaving the greenhouse, door mechanisms, and lighting units unchanged. This approach allows for a comprehensive visual transformation without requiring extensive modifications to the underlying vehicle. Caselani offers nine standard colors for the Type-Ami, providing customers with a range of options to personalize their vehicle. For those seeking an even more unique look, Caselani also offers custom paint matching services, allowing customers to create a truly bespoke Type-Ami.
The Type-Ami project began as a personal endeavor for Fabrizio Caselani, the founder of the company. Initially conceived as a one-off creation, the prototype garnered significant attention after being showcased at the 24-hour Citroen 2CV race held at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium. The overwhelmingly positive response to the prototype led to the decision to put the Type-Ami into production, making it available to a wider audience. To ensure that the final design remained true to Citroen's vision and aesthetic principles, the Type-Ami underwent refinement with the collaboration of a dedicated team at the Citroen Style Center. This collaboration resulted in an official endorsement from the French automaker, solidifying the Type-Ami's status as an officially sanctioned tribute to Citroen's heritage.
While the exterior of the Type-Ami receives a complete makeover, the underlying mechanical and electrical components remain unchanged. The Type-Ami retains the Ami's original 8-horsepower electric motor and 5.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. With a top speed limited to 45 km/h, the Type-Ami falls into the European classification of a heavy quadricycle. This classification means that, in Europe, even individuals as young as 14 years old are eligible to drive the Type-Ami, similar to its counterparts, the Fiat Topolino and Opel Rocks Electric.
The Type-Ami will make its official public debut at the Retromobile show in Paris on February 5th. Pre-orders for the Type-Ami are currently being accepted, with prices starting at €13,000. For existing Citroën Ami owners looking to upgrade their vehicles with the retro styling of the Type-Ami, the conversion kit is available separately for approximately €5,000.