Rare pick-up version fitted with a working gazogène system
Bi-fuel, running on wood gas or petrol
Recently restored, and the vehicle is described as in perfect running order
Registered in France as a classic vehicle
The appeal
The Second World War imposed severe fuel rationing across Europe, sparking keen interest in alternative energy sources. Options were not in short supply: some turned to coal gas, others to ethanol. In France, wood gas in particular found its place among petrol alternatives.
While the calorific value of wood gas is considerably lower than that of conventional fuels, it was an era in which necessity ruled. Many commercial vehicles, lorries and pick-ups were therefore fitted with gazogènes, notably the Imbert system, a downdraught generator designed by Georges Imbert.
Most of these vehicles lost their gazogène once petrol became more readily available again. This 1931 Ford Model A pick-up, however, has retained its imposing, boiler-like components. It was recently restored to running order with its gazogène system, a petrol tank and a conventional carburettor, allowing it to run on both fuels. The vehicle is described as running. The cabin has also been restored and fitted with purple leather seats.
This is a rare and distinctive collector's piece, likely to appeal particularly to enthusiasts of vintage vehicles and historic engineering solutions.image.png2.04 MB
Key information
Mileage: 24,087 miles shown, approximately 38,764 km
Country of registration: France
Contrôle technique: stated as not required
Technical specifications: 3,285cc four-cylinder engine, manual gearbox, bi-fuel system with gazogène
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, meaning that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.
✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful bidder or your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for the specific fees.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is standard practice to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want the transaction to go smoothly, just as you do, which is why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and listed for sale on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to confirm they carry no insurance database markers for damage or theft and are not subject to any finance charge, so you can bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as written off following a total loss at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic and we provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle's status, and it is always worthwhile carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.
✓ Buyers are responsible for collecting or delivering the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.
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