Citroën Marks 90 Years with Special Nemo Van Edition
Citroën released a limited-run Nemo Van ‘90 Years’ edition in August 2009, adding extra equipment and commemorative badging to celebrate the brand’s anniversary.
In August 2009, Citroën marked its 90th anniversary with the introduction of a special edition Nemo Van for the UK market. This commemorative ‘90 Years’ edition was part of a broader campaign celebrating the company’s long-standing presence in the European light commercial vehicle (LCV) sector. Citroën has been a key player in this market, and the limited-run Nemo ‘90 Years’ edition sought to highlight the brand’s core values of innovation, practicality, and value for money.
Introduction: Celebrating 90 Years of Citroën
Special Features and Equipment
The Nemo ‘90 Years’ edition is based on the 1.4HDi 70hp LX model, but Citroën enhanced it with several features not found on the standard version. Each of the seventy five vans produced for the UK came equipped with Garbato Grey metallic paint, air conditioning, and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. These additions were aimed at providing extra comfort and convenience for operators, distinguishing the edition from the regular LX specification. The van also features a unique ‘90 Years’ celebration badge on the rear doors, making it immediately recognisable.
| Engine | 1.4HDi 70hp diesel |
|---|---|
| Base model | Nemo LX |
| Paint | Garbato Grey metallic |
| Additional features | Air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity |
| Special badging | ‘90 Years’ rear door badge |
| Roadside assistance | Three-year Citroën Assist |
Value Proposition for Operators
Citroën positioned the Nemo ‘90 Years’ edition at £8,295 before VAT and delivery, targeting small businesses, urban delivery drivers, and fleet operators. The enhanced specification was designed to appeal to those seeking a compact LCV with modern comforts, without the need for aftermarket upgrades. The inclusion of air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity addressed growing expectations for in-cab comfort and hands-free communication in commercial vehicles. The three-year Citroën Assist roadside assistance package provided additional assurance for buyers, supporting the van’s value proposition as a reliable workhorse.
Limited Production and Exclusivity
With only seventy five units made available in the UK, the Nemo ‘90 Years’ edition stands out as one of the rarer variants in the Nemo line-up. This exclusivity was intended to attract buyers looking for a distinctive vehicle that also offered practical benefits. The special badging and unique paint finish further reinforce the limited nature of the edition, making it a potential collector’s item for enthusiasts of the brand.
Anniversary Editions Across the Citroën LCV Range
The Nemo was not the only model to receive the anniversary treatment. Citroën also released special ‘90 Years’ editions of the Berlingo and Dispatch vans. The Berlingo 1.6HDi 75hp L1 625kg ‘90 Years’ edition was limited to 150 units, while the Dispatch 1000 L1H1 1.6HDi 90hp ‘90 Years’ edition was limited to 85 units. Both models were equipped with features similar to the Nemo, including metallic paint, air conditioning, and Bluetooth connectivity with USB Box. Like the Nemo, these vans came with extended roadside assistance and commemorative badging. All three anniversary editions were available from participating UK dealers, offering operators a choice of size and capability while maintaining the celebratory theme.
- Nemo ‘90 Years’ edition: 75 units, Garbato Grey metallic paint, air conditioning, Bluetooth
- Berlingo ‘90 Years’ edition: 150 units, Arctic Steel metallic paint, air conditioning, Bluetooth with USB Box
- Dispatch ‘90 Years’ edition: 85 units, Arctic Steel metallic paint, air conditioning, Bluetooth with USB Box
Context and Comparisons
Citroën’s strategy of releasing limited-run, well-equipped anniversary models mirrors similar approaches taken by other manufacturers to mark key milestones. Such editions typically offer extra equipment, unique finishes, and special badging to celebrate the brand’s heritage and attract enthusiasts. This approach can be seen in other commemorative vehicles, which often become sought after by collectors and fans of the marque.
Conclusion: A Distinctive Urban Van
The Citroën Nemo Van ‘90 Years’ edition encapsulated the brand’s commitment to innovation and value, offering enhanced comfort and connectivity in a compact, urban-friendly package. Its limited production run, special features, and commemorative touches made it a notable addition to Citroën’s LCV history. For businesses and collectors alike, the Nemo ‘90 Years’ edition remains a distinctive reminder of Citroën’s nine decades of automotive achievement.
