Highlights

Professionally converted into a catering van
In good original mechanical form
Well presented with recent mechanical and aesthetic refurbishment
Later model more desirable for regular use

The Appeal

If there's one thing the French automotive world has been good at, it's making dependable, simple utilitarian vehicles for the masses. One look at the ever popular Citroen 2CV tells you everything you need to know and supports that case. So what would happen when the same engineers had a go at making a proper utilitarian van for all. Cue the HY Van. The HY Van was an absolute hit and a direct rival to the ever popular Volkswagen T2. By reaching out directly to consumers to see what they really wanted in a van, Citroen was able to hit the nail on the head, creating a simple, dependable van for all, becoming the commercial vehicle of choice in France for several decades on.

Nowadays HY vans have soared in popularity, with much of this down to the catering sector, with many having found the vans to be ideal to convert and run as food trucks, which is exactly what we find with this 1969 HY van. Converted by HY specialists Dragon Classics, this short wheelbase van has been fully kitted out for catering but has yet to see any use in that field, making it ideal for someone looking to branch out or expand into the industry.

In great mechanical and aesthetic order, this is the ultimate kitchen on wheels you can depend on.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 24/09/1968
Originally a French HY, which left the factory in pickup form
Brought into the UK circa 2019
It was then converted from a pickup into a catering van by HY specialists Dragon Classics before being purchased by the current owner
The current owner commissioned more work to be done by Dragon however a change in plans means the van is up for sale
As a result the van has never seen any actual use as a catering vehicle and as such the catering section is in effectively unused condition
Accompanied by three sets of keys
Comes with a HY technical booklet
Advisory free MOT valid with no advisories until May 2024
UK registered with V5 registration document present
Also comes with a full vehicle cover

The Interior

Built as a fully kitted out catering van by specialists Dragon Classics
A change in plans means the catering equipment has seen no use. What we have here is effectively a brand new catering van inside
Simple utilitarian cabin in good form, finished in a simple black hue
A later HY van meaning factory 12v electrics
Cab has been soundproofed
Nice, well presented front passenger section with new carpet sets and headliner
Two well upholstered white front seats with contrasting black piping, which look to be in a like new state
Brown leather wrapped three spoke steering wheel to give the cabin that vintage feel
Simple white dashboard panels in great clean shape
Vendor informs that at present all switches in the cabin work but the fuel gauge and speedometer do not
New engine cover
Rear of the vehicle has had both side and rear hatches fitted
Solid wood worktops throughout
Beautiful wood panelling on the sides
Fitted with a double sink with heater and pump, alongside a glass double fronted fridge
From an electronics perspective we have interior and exterior lighting, numerous sockets (some with USB charging ports) and a 240v hook up if you wish to connect to an external 13amp socket or generator
A new leisure battery has also been fitted

The Exterior

Classic French styling with a wonderful charm to it
Hand painted in a black hue which lends itself perfectly into the vintage look of the van
Complemented with a contrasting white roof panel
Originally a pickup body that has been professionally converted for catering with side and rear hatches
The original pickup lower side hatches are still present as well and are ideal for storage; the owner informs these will comfortably house two 6kg gas bottles
Well presented with painted white bumpers and foot steps
Matching white steel wheels sits on all four corners and have been professionally repainted
LED rear lights and indicators
Simple design with large side and rear panels ideal for signwriting
Exterior metal work appears solid throughout

The Mechanics

Simple original HY van running gear. Certainly not built for speed, but entirely simple and dependable
Later HY van preferred for catering courtesy of several factory improvements to the running gear and cooling system plus 12v electrics as standard
Vendor informs us that both the engine and gearbox have been rebuilt by HY specialists Dragon Classics along with a fluid change
As well as the engine rebuild the following is understood to have been performed by Dragon Classics during the van’s refurbishment
- New clutch
- New radiator
- New fuel pump
- New exhaust
- High output alternator to charge the leisure battery
- Electric power steering fitment
- New brake hoses
- LED rear light and indicator upgrade
The van is reported to fire into life comfortably and with ease, driving exactly as a HY should

Summary

If you're looking to break into the food business or expand your current outfit this wonderful little HY van can be seen as perfection on wheels. Extensively refurbished by a revered HY specialist outfit, advisory free MOT and most importantly a professionally kitted out catering setup in the rear that is effectively brand new, having seen no use since installation.

What you're getting here is an undeniably rare and interesting classic van with the hard work already done to an exceptionally high standard.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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