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The Alpine Marbon CRV (Cycolac Research Vehicle), designed in 1966 by Italian coachbuilder OSI (Officine Stampaggi Industriali), was commissioned by the American company Marbon Chemical. The purpose of the CRV was to demonstrate Marbon’s ABS plastic material, known as Cycolac, and its potential for use in automotive bodywork. The CRV featured a body entirely constructed of Cycolac, showcasing the lightweight and durable properties of ABS plastic, which could be molded into complex shapes and was resistant to corrosion and dents.
After its debut, the CRV toured Europe to attract interest from automakers. Citroën took particular note of the material’s qualities and ultimately adopted Cycolac ABS for the body panels of the Citroën Méhari, introduced in 1968. The Méhari, a lightweight off-road vehicle, became well-known for its rugged ABS plastic body, which was both easy to clean and resistant to rust—qualities directly influenced by the innovative materials showcased in the Alpine Marbon CRV.
The CRV remains an important example of 1960s experimentation with alternative materials in automotive design, emphasizing durability and versatility.
