This 4-cylinder-powered rig would be fun to travel in don't you think?
 

This 4-cylinder-powered rig would be fun to travel in don't you think?

Started by Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM, December 27, 2025, 04:47:29 AM

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Gary Hatt - Publisher BCM

1951 Pathé-Marconi Superbus - a unique, iconic promotional vehicle.

The Pathé-Marconi Superbus, nicknamed "The Ambassador," was an innovative mobile showroom and entertainment vehicle, designed by Philippe Charbonneaux (creator of the Renault 16) for the French music company Pathé-Marconi, and built based upon a Panhard Levassor K185 tractor unit powered by a 4-cyl 6785cc diesel (100hp) engine with a 5-speed manual transmission.

This legendary bus was equipped with cutting-edge technology and luxurious interiors, featuring a unique hydraulic roof that transformed into an open-air stage for promoting records, radios, and TVs.

It was used as a promotional vehicle during the Tour de France. At the end of each stage, concerts were organized around the bus (performing artists included Edith Piaf and Yvette Horner) while guests were entertained in an on-board bar.

After its promotional years, it was sold off in the late 1950s, passed through various owners for 30 years, until a full restoration in 1990.

It's now preserved as a rare surviving example of 1950s mobile advertising and post-war French innovation, housed at the transport conservatory of the autocars anchin de France association in Wisenborg.
1999 Prevost H3-45
Gary@BusConversionMagazine.com

dtcerrato

It would be a real champ to menuver into tight places. Another plus would be to have transportation without having to move the camper section. :^
Dan & Sandy
North Central Florida
PD4104-129 since 1979
Toads: 2009 Jeep GC Limited 4X4 5.7L Hemi
             2008 GMC Envoy SLT 4x4 4.2L IL Vortec

usbusin

Gary D

USBUSIN was our 1960 PD4104 for 16 years (150,000 miles)
USTRUCKIN was our 2001 Freightliner Truck Conversion for 19 years (135,000 miles)
We are busless and truckless after 35 years of traveling