Have you noticed that as pickup trucks keep getting bigger and bigger, we are starting to see trucks that are noticably smaller? Ford was first to recognise the need for a compact urban van with its Transit Connect, a versatile cargo and people hauler. Now Chrysler is about to introduce something similar, based on one of Fiat's European models. Such vehicles make sense in today's environment but the industry was slow to catch on, unwilling to believe that North American truck buyers would actually accept something small.
Ah, but how small is small? Feast your eyes on what Barrett-Jackson calls a "micro panel van." The photos are misleading. This isn't small, it's what the Scots would describe as a "wee thing."
The extremely rare Mochet CM125Y micro panel truck was manufactured by George Mochet, inventor of the recumbent bicycle, in Puteaux, France, from 1938 to 1956. The engine is (are you ready for this?) a 1-cylinder unit, a Zuzcher 125cc motorcycle engine. It has a 3-speed transmission with reverse.
The Mochet may be small but for certain specialised jobs in areas with narrow streets and alleyways, may have been quite practical. And it's downright pretty with its white exterior and red interior. It has been restored to concours condition and runs and drives like new. No doubt the fuel economy is remarkable and as for service, how much work does it take to tune a 1-cylinder engine?
It is being offered with no reserve. I'm wondering if our Nigel Matthews will be on hand to bid. When he sent me the link it was with the comment "this has my name written all over it." The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction takes place from Jan 12-19 and the Mochet is lot #771. Move over, Nigel. I love it, too.
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