Volvo L342X (Coca Cola Lastbil) — 1953

Volvo L342 Coca-Cola Delivery Truck 1953 – Extensive Renovation Project

A fascinating and unusual 1953 Volvo L342, originally used as a Coca-Cola delivery truck by Mineralvattenfabriken Tre Kronor. With its period Coca-Cola connection, this is a particularly interesting piece of Swedish commercial and advertising history.

The truck dates from an important moment in Coca-Cola's Swedish history. Until 31 December 1952, cola drinks were prohibited in Sweden because regulations did not permit the use of phosphoric acid (E338) and caffeine in soft drinks. The rules changed from 1 January 1953, opening the way for Coca-Cola to be produced and sold in Sweden.

On 29 June 1953, the first trucks loaded with Coca-Cola were sent out to Swedish consumers. At the time, Coca-Cola was produced under licence by Mineralvattenfabriken Tre Kronor in Sundbyberg.

Jan Jansson, one of the company's first sales representatives, later recalled the premiere day, describing how the salesmen dressed in smart dark-green uniforms with matching peaked caps before heading out with the first crates. It was an exceptionally hot week in June and the newly introduced drink reportedly sold extremely well. A bottle of Coca-Cola cost just 34 öre.

Against this historical background, a surviving Volvo L342 associated with Tre Kronor represents a fascinating reminder of the very beginning of Coca-Cola’s Swedish story. Copies of the original registration documents from the Swedish National Archives are included and should assist with the future re-registration of the truck.

Extensive renovation

The current owner purchased the truck more than 20 years ago and later began what developed into an extensive renovation and rebuild, spanning approximately 8–10 years. A considerable amount of work has already been completed, including the chassis, engine and drivetrain.

With much of the major mechanical and chassis work already completed, the project has now reached the stage where it requires a knowledgeable and enthusiastic new owner to take over, complete the remaining assembly and bring this historic truck back to the road.

The chassis has been sandblasted, zinc-treated and primed. The braking system has been renewed, while the gearbox, rear axle and steering box have been renovated. Numerous bearings, bushings, joints, cables and suspension components have also been replaced or renovated.

The engine has undergone an extensive renovation, including work to the crankshaft, bearings, valves and valve seats. The carburettor, water pump, starter motor, generator and radiator have also been renovated, while the fuel system has received attention including a new fuel pump.

Further work includes renovation of the front axle and steering components, new suspension bushings and U-bolts, six sandblasted wheels with new tyres, two completely renovated doors, and a new seat and backrest. Considerable work has also been carried out on the dashboard, instruments, ventilation, heater and windscreen-wiper system.

The mudguards, bonnet and front section have been sandblasted, while numerous smaller components have either been renewed or renovated. A large quantity of parts is included with the truck to assist with completion.

This has clearly been a major undertaking representing a considerable investment of both time and parts. The renovation is not yet complete, and the Volvo is therefore offered as an unfinished project requiring further assembly and finishing.

Once completed, this 1953 Volvo L342, with its fascinating connection to Mineralvattenfabriken Tre Kronor and the early days of Coca-Cola in Sweden, has the potential to become a truly distinctive historic commercial vehicle — perfect for a private collection, museum, classic vehicle shows or period advertising displays.

With Volvo celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2027, the timing could hardly be better. Completed for the centenary, this unique truck could make a fantastic showpiece, combining an important piece of Swedish Volvo history with the story of Coca-Cola’s introduction to Sweden.

• Mechanical condition

  The engine and gearbox are fitted to the chassis, and the engine has been started and tested a few years ago — please see the attached videos. The truck is currently a rolling chassis and comes with a large selection of spare parts. Please study the photos carefully to see what is included.

• Interior condition

  The truck’s metal cab will need to be rebuilt and assembled. The main components are included, including the cab frame, doors, glass, hinges, instrumentation and various associated fittings. Also included are renovated seats, door cards and steering wheel, providing a good starting point for completing the cab and bringing the truck back together.

• Exterior condition

  The chassis has been fully renovated and painted and is now ready for the bodywork to be fitted. The cab, front wings, bonnet, grille and side steps are included, and the parts required to complete the front end appear to be largely complete. A new flatbed will need to be fabricated, as the truck’s original rear body section is not included. It appears that the original rear section had already been removed at some point before the truck was sold.

• General condition

  A super interesting project that now needs completing. We recommend viewing the truck in person, although the owner is happy to answer any questions. The truck and parts are stored in two containers, so collection will require a trailer plus a van or lorry for the loose parts.

Location: Landvetter

For viewing the vehicle, contact the inspector/case manager:

Shaun Major
+46 709-72 40 07
shaun@bilwebauctions.se

Collection must take place before: 2026-09-30.

NOTE! Payment (deposit to our account) must be made within 5 days and before collection.