Revitalized Retro Stellantis Van Resurrects an Old-School Symbol of Transportation

The Italian coachbuilder Caselani has unveiled a new retro-inspired van modeled after a classic Fiat Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV). The new van, named the 616N, is a vintage-themed conversion based on the Fiat Ducato platform.

The design of the new van was penned by auto designer David Obendorfer, who is also responsible for Caselani's earlier Citroen-inspired retro vans, including the Jumper, Spacetourer, Berlingo, and Ami.

Classic cues define the revamped 616N, with round headlights and taillights, a vintage-style hood, and curved lines that recall the original Fiat 615 and 616 vans built during the 1950s and 60s. The exterior of the Ducato has been completely reimagined to channel the charm of the mid-century Fiat 616N. The upper body, roof, and greenhouse of the revamped 616N integrate smoothly with the redesigned panels.

The 616N is powered by a 2.2-liter Multijet turbodiesel engine, available in three different states of tune (120 hp, 140 hp, and 180 hp). The van will be offered in multiple bodystyles, and the conversion kit for the 616N won't be limited to campervans; it will also include vans, box trucks, and tow trucks, each with tailored modifications.

Caselani has released renderings and a video showcasing the first two builds of the 616N, which are configured as campervans. Customers can choose from nine single-tone and three two-tone paint finishes for personalization.

The 616N is expected to be compatible with various donor vehicles, including the Citroen Jumper, Peugeot Boxer, Opel Movano, Toyota ProAce Max, Iveco Super Jolly, and Ram ProMaster, due to their similar underpinnings, interior, and body panels.

The pricing for the 616N has not been made public, but the model is already listed on the official website of the Italian coachbuilder. The van will make its public debut at the Caravan Salon 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, on August 29.

An all-electric Fiat E-Ducato variant is likely to be compatible with the 616N conversion kit, delivering 268 horsepower through a single motor and a 110 kWh battery pack.

David Obendorfer, the auto designer who created the Caselani retro van conversions, including the 616N van conversion, has also styled earlier retro vans for other brands. His work reflects a commitment to preserving the charm of classic designs while integrating modern technology and functionality.

Revitalized Retro Stellantis Van Resurrects an Old-School Symbol of Transportation