The French Dinky Saviem, Boite a Chevaux (Horse-box) Advertised as new in the second edition of the 1968 French Dinky catalogue, the 115mm long, Saviem horse transporter cost 23.25 fr. (new francs), about £3.1/-. Based on the Saviem Trafic SB2, the 1:43 scale diecast body, rear doors and tailgate were painted French Blue, the only colour offered by the manufacturer of the actual vehicle and the light brown side panels represented the vehicles wooden finish. The model had a white plastic roof, white seating, a black steering wheel and clear plastic windows surrounding the cab. The van had small translucent side windows and blue concave wheel hubs. The model’s accessories included a light green, two-wheeled racing cart, white racehorse, with black mane and a jockey sporting racing colours and a cap. Launched in early 1969, the Saviem Trafic SB2 was withdrawn in 1971.

Known as Harness Racing, the two-wheeled Sulky is the light-weight cart, most commonly ridden by the jockey, although a second type, called ‘Trot Monte’, where the jockey is mounted on the horse occurs in France. Popular throughout mainland Europe, in America and Australia, the races take place on a dirt track, in front of huge crowds. France’s most prestigious track is the Vincennes Hippodrome de Paris, where The Prix d’ Amerique takes place in late January, with a prize of 1 million Euros.

Saviem manufactured the actual SB2, Super Trafic 2, between 1965 and 1982. The petrol and diesel powered vehicles emerged from Saviem, the newly formed company resulting from the merger of Somua and Latil, with Renault. Production took place at their Blainville-sur-Orne plant from 1965-1980, when Saviem merged with Berliet to become Renault Vehicules Industriels. Although the Saviem name ceased to be used from 1980, the Trafic SB2, 4-cylinder, front wheel drive, Renault Super Goelette continued in production until 1982.

Cost 23.25 fr. available in blue & cream finish. French Dinky in detail...