1958 FBW CA 40 U 54L Haifisch – Retro Classics Stuttgart 2022

In 1958, Swiss bus engineering combined aerodynamic styling with robust diesel technology. The FBW CA 40 U 54L “Haifisch” earned its nickname from its distinctive streamlined front. Built for demanding alpine routes, it reflected Switzerland’s focus on precision and durability in public transport.

Technical Details:

The 1958 FBW CA 40 U 54L Haifisch was a rear-engined or underfloor-engined coach developed by Franz Brozincevic & Cie (FBW) of Wetzikon, Switzerland. The designation “CA 40” referred to its passenger capacity class, while “U” typically indicated an underfloor engine configuration. The “54L” denoted a long-wheelbase version.

The bus was powered by a six-cylinder diesel engine developed by FBW. Displacement and output varied depending on specification, but engines in this class generally produced approximately 140 to 160 horsepower. The diesel unit was designed for durability and sustained torque, essential for mountainous terrain and long-distance intercity service.

Power was transmitted through a manual gearbox to the rear axle. The chassis construction was robust, with a ladder-type frame adapted for coachwork. Air suspension was not yet standard, but the suspension system was engineered for stability and passenger comfort. Drum brakes were fitted, consistent with heavy commercial vehicles of the period.

The CA 40 U 54L was built for reliability, ease of maintenance, and sustained operation in demanding conditions, including alpine gradients and winter climates.

• Manufacturer: FBW (Franz Brozincevic & Cie, Wetzikon, Switzerland)
• Model Name: FBW CA 40 U 54L “Haifisch”
• Year of Manufacturing: 1958

Design:

The “Haifisch” nickname—German for “shark”—derived from the bus’s distinctive front styling. The streamlined nose featured a pointed, slightly protruding design with integrated headlamps, giving it a dynamic and aerodynamic appearance for a 1950s coach.

The bodywork reflected late-1950s European coach design, with large panoramic windows to enhance passenger visibility. The elongated profile and gently curved roofline contributed to a modern aesthetic that distinguished it from more box-shaped earlier buses.

Inside, the CA 40 U 54L offered a spacious passenger cabin with comfortable seating arranged in rows for regional or long-distance service. Interior fittings emphasized durability and clarity rather than ornamentation. Large windows and elevated seating positions improved visibility, particularly on scenic alpine routes.

The driver’s cockpit was functional, with clearly arranged gauges and substantial steering controls appropriate for a heavy vehicle.

Historical Significance:

FBW was one of Switzerland’s important commercial vehicle manufacturers in the mid-20th century. The CA 40 series represented a key stage in Swiss bus engineering during the post-war period, when public transportation was expanding alongside economic growth.

The 1958 CA 40 U 54L Haifisch reflected increasing attention to passenger comfort and aerodynamic design in coach construction. It was used by Swiss transport operators for regional and intercity routes, where reliability and engineering precision were essential.

Swiss bus manufacturers such as FBW built vehicles tailored to national requirements, including mountainous terrain and strict quality expectations. The CA 40 series contributed to FBW’s reputation for robust and technically sound commercial vehicles before the company eventually ceased operations in the 1980s.

Quirks and Pop Culture:

The “Haifisch” nickname is one of the most memorable aspects of the CA 40 U 54L. Its shark-like front gave the bus a personality unusual for commercial vehicles of the era.

Although not associated with mainstream popular culture, preserved examples of FBW Haifisch buses appear at classic transport exhibitions in Switzerland. They are appreciated for their distinctive styling and representation of mid-century Swiss engineering.

Among enthusiasts of historic commercial vehicles, the CA 40 U 54L stands out as a symbol of Switzerland’s independent coach-building tradition.

Display and preservation:

The vehicle was exhibited at the Retro Classics Stuttgart in 2022. This car show is one of the major events on the classic car calendar in Germany. In 2022, it took place across five exhibition halls. Visitors can enjoy special showcases, hunt for rare parts and books, and buy cars—both private sellers and dealers offer a wide range of classic and youngtimer vehicles. In 2022, there was a noticeable increase in low-mileage youngtimers and classic cars.

Conclusion:

The 1958 FBW CA 40 U 54L Haifisch represents a significant chapter in Swiss commercial vehicle history. Powered by a robust six-cylinder diesel engine and constructed with durability in mind, it was engineered for reliable service in challenging conditions. Its streamlined “shark” front and panoramic windows reflected evolving design trends in late-1950s coachbuilding. As part of FBW’s post-war production, the Haifisch remains an enduring example of Swiss precision in public transport engineering.