Important update: August 2026
Type J is scheduled in 1/43rd miniature in the «Citroën vans» collection by Altaya publishing (issue no. 83, provisional publication date 2 February 2028).
The Citroën Type J succeeded a first attempt at a vineyard tractor in 1919
The Citroën Type J tractor or Citroën's agricultural ambitions
At the end of the 1940s, at Citroën's top-secret testing facility in La Ferté-Vidamme (Eure-et-Loir), testing began for this tractor. It was not the first vehicle of its kind, as a vineyard tractor had been produced at the end of the First World War. Only three Type J tractors were built, including one with two-wheel drive and another with full four-wheel drive. Tests were carried out by the farming monks of the Abbey of Soligny. The four-wheel drive model ended its career as a farm tool and a recovery vehicle for the prototypes tested at the La Ferté-Vidamme proving ground.
The Citroën Type J tractor: design and characteristics
Its appearance is typical of agricultural vehicles of that era. With a total length of around 3.20 metres and a width of about 1.50 metres, the Type J is distinguished by its 4 identical wheels. It is equipped with an engine derived from that of the Traction 7 hp. Its height is around 1.80 metres.
Citroën miniature tractors in 1/43 scale
The Citroën B2 vineyard tractor was reproduced in the «TRACTEURS ET MONDE AGRICOLE» (1/43 scale) partwork collection published by HACHETTE / UNIVERSAL HOBBIES in issue 65 (out of 146 in total) released on 28 August 2008. It can now be found fairly easily at model fairs and motor shows where diecast model dealers are present.
As for the Type J, and following my research, it has never been reproduced (neither in 1:43 nor in 1:32 scale, which is the scale generally used for agricultural miniatures).
The steps involved in making the miniature
Following the documentary research, I am carrying out the 3D modelling using several software programs, notably Fusion360 and Meshmixer, for dividing it into parts to be printed. Here, everything is made of resin. For the presentation, I chose a crystal box with a wooden base where I have reproduced the manufacturer's «TEST» plate for the first three models in the numbered series. The plate is reproduced using FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) 3D printing and not in resin. A photo of the Type J can be seen on the internet alongside the RE2 helicopter (miniature currently being made, see article here)
Conclusion
I offer you this miniature (as an unpainted kit, or painted and assembled) to enhance your collection with a unique piece, testament to a bygone era when testing was done in the field.
List of resources for this vehicle:
Press:
Tracteurs d’antan, issue 1, July / August 2024
All tractors manufactured in France, volume 1, July 2024
Web: on Google or where Citroën Origins
