Citroën TUB
The revolutionary pioneer of the modern front-wheel-drive delivery van.
- Power
- 45 bhp
- Top speed
- 50 mph
- Est. value
- $20k–$45k
About the Citroën TUB
The Citroën TUB (Traction Utilitaire Basse) was a landmark in commercial vehicle design, introducing the forward-control layout and front-wheel drive to the van segment. Derived from the mechanicals of the Traction Avant, it featured a remarkably low, flat loading floor and the first-ever sliding side door on a production van. The 1.9-litre version, often referred to as the TUC or 11-T, offered an increased payload capacity of 1,200 kg compared to the original 7CV model. Its production was tragically cut short by the outbreak of World War II, but its innovative architecture directly inspired the legendary Type H that followed.
Citroën TUB specs
The Citroën TUB produces 45 bhp (34 kW). It has a top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
| Make | Citroën |
|---|---|
| Model | TUB |
| Trim | 1.9 |
| Years | 1939–1941 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Van |
| Country | France |
| Production | About 1,748 built |
| Engine | 1.9-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,911 cc (1.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 45 bhp (34 kW) at 3,800 rpm |
| Top speed | 50 mph (80 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,380 kg (3,042 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 33 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Citroën TUB worth?
A typical Citroën TUB is estimated to be worth $20,000 – $45,000 (about £15,000 – £34,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Citroën TUB rarity in CarSpot
The Citroën TUB is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 57 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Citroën TUB fun facts
- The TUB was the first commercial vehicle to feature a sliding side door, a feature that is now standard on almost every van in the world.
- Its name, TUB, is an acronym for 'Traction Utilitaire Basse', which translates to 'Low Utility Traction', referring to its low loading height.
- Because of the war, many TUBs were converted into ambulances or used by the French military before production ceased entirely in 1941.
