El Italian atelier Caselani has surprised the entire world with its latest creation. The new Citroën Type-Ami, a transformation kit that reinterprets the small Citroen Ami as a modern version of the iconic Type H, a van that made history from 1947 to 1981. This project is the result of a collaboration between Caselani and the Citroën Style Centre, under the direction of Pierre Leclercq. The design, by the well-known David Obendorfer, seeks to capture the retro essence of classic Citroën vehicles.
The Type-Ami retains the original technical structure of the Citroën Ami, but completely transforms its external appearance. The car, designed for an urban and practical style, maintains its electric motor 8 hp (6 kW), a battery of 5,5 kWh and a maximum autonomy of 75 kilometers. With a speed limited to 45 km/h, this mini vehicle is perfectly adapted to the needs of short trips in urban environments.
The design of the new Citroën Type-Ami by Caselani pays homage to the past of the house with the double chevron…
The kit includes corrugated fiberglass panels which mimic the already characteristic texture of the original Type H. In addition, the front adopts a distinctive “cargo” aesthetic, while the windows, headlights and door mechanisms of the original Ami remain intact. This detail allows the vehicle to retain its functional essence, although its image is completely transformed.
No technical modifications are necessary, as the kit uses standard fixings that simplify installation. The Type-Ami is offered in nine standard colors, although custom finishes can be requested for those looking for a unique touch. The wheels also follow a simple design, inspired by classic models the 50s and 60s, contributing even more to the nostalgic air that characterizes the vehicle.
Accessories and customization options
Caselani offers the opportunity to either purchase the conversion kit separately or buy the Type-Ami already assembled. The price of the basic kit is 5.000 Euros, while the complete vehicle, already transformed, has an initial price of 13.900 Euros. All components included are designed not to increase the weight of the vehicle, which remains in its 471 kg, thus respecting the original technical characteristics of the Citroën Ami.
As for the paint, the kit allows you to choose between six solid colors y three metallic finishesIf all the options are not enough, there is the possibility of customising the body colours in direct dialogue with the Caselani team, which oversees every detail of the process.
A unique collaboration between Citroën and Caselani…
The development of the Type-Ami has been closely supervised by both the Caselani design team and the specialists at the Citroën Style Centre. This collaboration ensures that the kit is not only visually appealing, but also respect the principles of style and functionality that characterize the Citroën brandTo ensure product quality, each piece is handcrafted at the Caselani factory located in Cremona, Italy.
The official debut of the Type-Ami took place at the prestigious Retromobile show in Paris, the February 5th 2025. This event is a unique opportunity for design aficionados and classic car enthusiasts to get a close-up look at this modern homage to the Type H. Its debut promises to capture the attention of both those looking for a vehicle with practicality and those who value the historical heritage of automotive design.
The Citroën Type-Ami demonstrates how a modern and functional car like the Citroën Ami can be transformed into a vehicle full of nostalgia without losing its practicalityThis project consolidates Caselani as a leader in retro reinterpretation, taking its neo-retro style to a whole new level.
Source - Caselani
Images | David Obendorf – Caselani – Citroën