Van User - March 2023

NEC BIRMINGHAM 18 - 20 APRIL 2023

Visit us on stand 5E70 for:

On-vehicle demonstrations for our whole product range

Cutting-edge security innovations for the VW ID.Buzz and Ford E-Transit

‘Behind the scenes’ look at our anti-peel kit testing simulation

Your guide to preventing common vehicle attack methods

Discover why our shielding range is your game-changer for 2023

Reveal of our next generation cargo locking solutions

· HOOK LOCKS · SLAMLOCKS · ANTI-PEEL KITS · SHIELDING ·

· CARGO LOCKS · SHUTTER LOCKS ·

Plus we unveil our new partnership with the AA as we launch our Key Assist emergency call-out service.

The electric vehicle market is moving forward swiftly, with manufacturers developing new battery technology to reduce weight and extend driving range. It’s a similar story in the EV charger market. For any company looking to install business or home chargers for van drivers, there is certainly no shortage of choice. However, as with the vehicle batteries, technology is marching on apace.

Having recently moved house, I have had to install a new EV charger, both for our own car and for the many e-LCVs that we get through for test. Whereas the previous charge point that we had was literally a plug in and charge socket, our new charger offers far more interactivity.

We’ve opted for a BG SyncEV charger, which comes with all sorts of smart technology. The Mode 3, 7.4kW untethered charger looks pretty sleek and was installed in a couple of hours. There are no screens or buttons to worry about, as everything is handled through the BG SyncEV app on my phone, which is where the smart features come in.

Not only does the device know who my energy supplier is and what tariff I’m on, but it can look for better deals and schedule charging activities to occur during off-peak hours. You just tell the app when you want to drive away and it handles everything else, or you can override the technology if you need to recharge then and there.

The unit is connected through WiFi and it can handle over-the-air updates, plus it is compatible with solar charging, for those with panels. The app also provides complete visibility of charging costs, which can be used to reimburse drivers that are topping-up business vans at home.

The charger arrived just in time to top-up the Vivaro Electric GS in this issue and it will be put to use with a number of electric vans over the coming months, including Ford’s E-Transit and the VW ID.Buzz Cargo.

Munro aiming high

Scottish manufacturer Munro Vehicles has debuted the Munro Mk 1, a robust, all-electric, simple to maintain 4x4 for agriculture and other off-road vehicle users. The Mk 1, which is priced from £49,995, is powered by a 280kW electric powertrain with a mechanical driveline. It offers up to 190 miles of driving range and the flexibility to work off-road for up to 16 hours on a single battery charge. Capable of transporting up to five people, the Munro has a 3.5-tonne towing capacity. The company intends to build 50 vehicles this year, before moving to a new site in Glasgow in 2024. It then hopes to build 250 vehicles a year and up to 2,500 by 2027.

“up to 190 miles of driving range and the flexibility to work offroad for up to 16 hours on a single battery charge

Sheffield to charge older vans

Sheffield has become the latest city to launch a Clean Air Zone. Older vans and taxis will have to pay £10 a day, while buses, trucks and coaches that fail to meet the regulations will have to pay £50 to enter the zone. Sheffield becomes the eight UK city to charge drivers of older vehicles, following the recent addition of Newcastle and Gateshead

The CAZ covers the inner ring road and city centre. As a Class C zone, vans and pick-ups that do not meet Euro 6

Watt joins e-LCV market

Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) has revealed a lightweight, chassis cab product set that could form the basis of a range of commercial vehicles. Designed to be built in numbers up to 5,000 a year, the 3.5-tonne chassis cab, known as the Watt eCV1, uses a modular electric vehicle platform called PACES. This electric vehicle ‘skateboard’ exceeds European Small Series Type Approval safety standards, providing small to medium manufacturers with a fast way into the LCV market.

The batteries are integrated into the structure and the eCV1 features a central driving position, making it easier to sell in left and right-hand drive markets. The cabin can include one, two or three seats, with a large glasshouse providing good all-round visibility. A walk-through cabin is an option for last-mile delivery missions.

With a kerb weight of just 1,750kg, the vehicle could offer highly competitive pay-

for diesel engines and Euro 4 for petrol, will have to pay the daily charge. Local temporary exemptions are available for businesses based in Sheffield and Rotherham that are running older vans, though these will expire on June 5.

loads at 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes gross weight. The chassis can be configured in front, rear or all-wheel drive and the company has production facilities in Cornwall and the Midlands capable of producing up to 5,000 vehicles a year.

“As the electrification of the transport sector accelerates, what we are seeing from customers is the need for a ready-to-go, sophisticated yet cost-effective electric commercial vehicle offering,” said Neil Yates, founder and CEO of Watt.

“With our first product, the eCV1, we have really re-thought what is possible and over the coming months will reveal full details of the further unique features that make it a truly revolutionary light electric commercial vehicle.”

RAC Connected joins forces with Exeros

Telematic provider RAC Connected is partnering with Exeros Technologies, to add smart camera systems to its business fleet offer. Customers can choose from a range of camera systems, capturing forward and rearward views, that can be live streamed, can monitor driver fatigue or distraction and can provide CCTV security. There is also the option to include advanced driver assistance systems, to help prevent accidents by scanning the road ahead for vehicles, pedestrians and other road users, alerting the driver if they stray from the lane in which they are driving.

Exeros cameras have been fitted to the RAC’s own patrol vans since 2017. Now they will be integrated into the RAC Connected platform, to notify fleet managers within minutes if an accident or incident occurs.

“RAC Connected already gives fleet managers a host of information including collision detection alerts and data on vehicle health and driver behaviour, but the addition of state-of-the-art external and interior camera technology adds another dimension, particularly as everything is available in the easyto-access RAC Connected portal and app,” said Nigel Humpherson, head of RAC Connected.

“Customers, large and small, are able to take advantage of any or all of the Exeros systems, from a front-facing camera, right through to full CCTV security, or preventative safety features such as advanced driver assistance or AI driver gesture monitoring systems.”

Van User: You finished 2022 with a 4.6% market share in the UK, but overall how was last year for Toyota Professional?

Gareth Matthews: We were pleased with our result in 2022, as despite overall volume being just slightly down (5.4 % against a market down 20.6%), we were actually able to increase our market share. This achievement is even more notable when you consider we not only faced the extra challenges caused by component shortages that affected the whole industry, but also several months closure at our Hilux plant in South Africa due to flooding. We would certainly have sold more if the products were available, but as we stand today, we have a healthy order bank well into 2023 allowing us time to review and reset as a brand.

VU: Hilux is currently more than 50% of LCV sales for Toyota, how do the other models break down - Proace City, Proace, Corolla and Land Cruiser?

GM: Hilux has always represented the quality, durability and reliability of the Toyota brand and remains a very popular and hugely important vehicle for us in the UK market. Although it is a large portion of our sales, we still need focus on maintaining market share in the pick-up segment.

However, we do expect this balance to shift as we head through 2024, when we bring our HDV (heavy van) to market. Combined, our Proace family figure is just under 60% of the current

INTERVIEW: Toyota Professional LCV manager Gareth Matthews

Toyota Professional is enjoying commercial vehicle growth, in sales and product line-up.

LCV manager Gareth Matthews talks to Van User.

Hilux total for last year and has been growing steadily. In addition, we also expect to see growth with the first full year’s sales of Corolla Commercial, with its fifth-generation hybrid technology, along with Land Cruiser Commercial which increased sales by 35% in 2022.

VU: When the bigger van joins the range in 2024, how will that change the van split for Toyota?

GM: We are still in the process of finalising range and specification ahead of next year, but as previously mentioned our Proace family sales are growing year-on-year and we fully expect this to continue as we bring our HDV to market.

Our Proace family sales are growing year-on-year and we fully expect this to continue as we bring our HDV to market.

“VU: What percentage of Proace and Proace City sales are now electric and how do you see that changing over the coming year?

GM: As of the end of 2022, the mix of Proace electric sales (both models) was 22%. We are expecting EV sales to increase throughout 2023 in line with growing demand. Our UK built Corolla Commercial also has a part to play in this growth and is readily available with our local production.

VU: Will you get an electric version of the large van from day one and how do you see sales splitting at launch in 2024?

GM: Specification for our HDV is still

being reviewed so we cannot confirm this quite yet, we would expect the split to represent market conditions.

VU: Do you think that the UK LCV market can be ready for the end of petrol/diesel sales in 2030 and what could the government do to incentivise and help van operators to make the switch?

GM: Toyota shares the UK government’s ambition to make progress towards zero emissions. As a company we are committed to further developing the market for electric vehicles and we are working with our LCV fleet customers to understand their usage patterns. The greater adoption of zero emission vehicles will also be reliant on the pace of development for the key enabling conditions - such as availability of clean energy, complimentary charging infrastructure and availability of raw materials.

VU: 142 of your 181 dealers are now Toyota Professional. Do you see that going to 100% going forwards?

GM: We were delighted with the response from our network when we made them aware of our planned launch of the Toyota Professional brand back in 2019, where we grew from 25 business centres to well over 100 within a year. They realised this opportunity when they saw our planned investment and product line-up that would be arriving over the years.

While any Toyota retailer is able to sell commercial vehicles, we will continue to work closely with the remaining centres, we still have plans to expand the network in line with our volume growth ambitions.

We have a healthy order bank for 2023 and continue to see high demand for our diverse commercial vehicle product range.

VU: How are you preparing your dealer partners to cope with the large van market, in terms of bodybuilding, conversions, chassis cabs etc?

GM: When we launched the Toyota Approved Conversion Programme back in 2017, our focus was on our product portfolio and geographic coverage suited to our product range at that time. Between now and our HDV launch in 2024 we are looking to expand this network, we are still at the stage of determining factory options and would look to provide UK solutions depending on the results and where we see market potential.

VU: Will you provide a Toyota-approved range of conversions for the big van (tipper, dropside, Luton, fridge) to make adoption easier for dealers?

GM: We already provide standard conversions where we see market opportunities and continually review UK market conditions. With the launch of the HDV we need to understand market demand, to ensure we have the product range necessary to hit the ground running.

VU: Are lead times easing and have you got increased availability from the various production plants for your vans/pick-ups?

GM: We are working hard to ease lead times over the year, we have been able to secure additional production alloca-

tion for specific models where demand is high, so that we can meet our 2023 sales ambition. However, for our UK built Corolla Commercial we are able to fulfil orders quickly with the benefit of local production.

VU: How do you see 2023 developing for Toyota Professional, in terms of sales, market shares and dealer development?

GM: We have a healthy order bank for 2023 and continue to see high demand for our diverse commercial vehicle product range. This year we expect incremental growth, following the launch of the revised UKbuilt Corolla Commercial with its fifth-generation hybrid technology, a unique proposition in the LCV market today. In addition, we have Toyota Hilux GR Sport models arriving at centres, which represents the pinnacle of the Hilux range with dedicated suspension and specific GR styling cues.

Our aims are to continue to increase our market share and as of today, we show a sales increase of 48% in a market up 24% and have already grown market share to 5.8%. For our network the focus is on increased levels of training for sales and aftersales, to meet the differing demands of LCV customers that supports our growth strategy as we look forward to launching our HDV in 2024.

VANS THAT ARE READY TO WORK

SMUK managing director Steve MacDonald talks through racking design.

The past 18 months have seen the fleet manager’s job get much harder. Not only are they responsible for keeping vehicles road-legal and mobile engineers fit to drive, but they must also ensure the payload they carry is lawful and secure. This means checking the vehicle’s roadworthiness, it’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) and the weight per axle.

With the DVSA looking to deploy more Mobile Inspection Units (MIU), it will soon have the ability to rapidly set up and inspect at various locations across the UK.

Marian Kitson, DVSA director of enforcement, said: “The mobile inspection unit provides us with an opportunity to be even more agile and focused on our targeting of dangerous drivers and vehicles.”

That’s only half the story.

“The load and the weight of the racking system all add to the weight of the vehicle, as does the equipment and consumables you carry,” said Steve MacDonald, MD of SMUK. “And that is especially the case at 3.5 tonnes. Payload is a real issue.”

But saving weight doesn’t necessarily mean making storage fittings from aluminium rather than steel. System Edstrom makes extensive use of ultra-high-strength steel. It’s more expensive than mild steel, but four times stronger, so less is used and it lasts longer. “Strength and longevity are two big reasons why we use and endorse System Edstrom,” said MacDonald.

With all conversions, a discovery meeting

is essential. “It starts with a simple discussion and an understanding of what it’s like to walk in the footsteps of your engineers,” said MacDonald.

“To see what they see, to live their day is part of what makes the solution so much more real.”

One in three of SMUK’s discovery meetings indicate that one recuring issue is hoarding. “Our design engineers have found that on average, mobile engineers carry around 30% of stuff in their vans that they really don’t need,” he added.

This begs the question of how often a fleet manager inspects the engineer’s van. SMUK creates detailed 3D drawings showing the ergonomic design of the racking and where best to create useful storage solutions. The process can be complicated, as it needs to ensure the safe carrying of hazardous materials and equipment.

Another big reason for using System Edstrom is that all of its racking is crash-tested, with a priority to make sure that if your engineer has a crash, the items will stay where they need to.

“In a 31mph crash, a screwdriver weighing 200g can hit your mobile engineer, sat in the front seat, at a collision weight of 8kg,” said MacDonald.

Safety has been a hallmark of SMUK and the reason it installs System Edstrom’s comprehensive range of storage solutions. What’s more, the latest crash tests at RISE Research Institute in Sweden, complied with the INRS NS 286 standard applied to all of its van racking solutions.

SM UK has extensive experience building van-racking solutions: including lighting, shelves, drawers, and other practical van accessories. In addition to its standard racking options, SMUK offers extras such as onboard power and driver safety cameras. The company can provide van conversions for all of the major van brands, including Ford, VW, Citroen and Mercedes-Benz.

“We not only endorse System Edstrom, but also work closely with them to provide a well-planned, ergonomic van shelving system that can make a work day more efficient, save your team valuable time on a job, reduce payload, as well as reducing fuel costs,” said MacDonald.

Customers appreciate every detail in the van. With the recent acquisition of a new 40,000sq ft workshop in Leeds, plus workshops in Dartford and Tamworth, SMUK can now offer incredible lead times and superior van conversion.

MacDonald concluded: “Our Turn-Key solution has now become a popular choice, as we take the whole project from van purchase to full conversion including wrapping where necessary. At SMUK our vans are ready to work.”

Kangoo E-Tech

Renault has been a pioneer in the electric van market, from the Kangoo Z.E. model in 2011, to the launch of its first hydrogen fuel cell Master later this year. The company has sold more than 4,800 Kangoo electric vans in the UK and it claims market leadership in e-LCVs across Europe, with a 15% share of the sector..

Along with a name change, from Z.E. to E-Tech, the compact Kangoo has taken its biggest step forward to date. Battery size increases from 33kWh to 45kWh, boosting driving range to a far more useful 186 miles (WLTP). The battery drives through

Battery size increases from 33kWh to 45kWh, boosting driving range to a far more useful 186 miles

a more powerful motor too, now pushing out 90kW (120hp) and 245Nm of torque.

The van has two driving modes, normal and Eco, with the Eco setting dropping motor output to 56kW to extend range. It is perfectly useable, happily pushing the unladen van along with similar performance to the previous generation van. More importantly, as the Kangoo E-Tech uses a heat pump to provide its climate control, there is no drop in heater performance when you switch to Eco mode, as with some competitors, making it a truly usable all-weather drive setting.

To extend range further, the van comes with three regenerative braking modes, which are accessed by pushing the gear lever to the right and then knocking it back and forward between modes. The first set-

ting allows the van to coast, with no regenerative braking effect. The middle setting gives reasonable braking effect, for general single carriageway use and then the third setting provides maximum braking effect. Though not quite a one-pedal city driving experience, it does deliver enough braking to rarely need to use the foot brake in town.

Kangoo E-Tech models can accept up to 22kW of AC power input, or up to 80kW of DC rapid charging as standard. A 7.4kW home charger will take the battery from 20-80% in four hours, while a rapid DC charger will complete the job in just 40 minutes. Drivers can add 30 miles of range in just 6 minutes at a rapid charge station, for a ‘splash-and-dash’ top-up. The My Renault smartphone app allows drivers to remotely set charging times and to precondition the van before disconnecting from the mains supply.

Renault is launching the Kangoo

continued on p13

E-Tech takes Kangoo to a new level

E-Tech in L1 form first, with L2 orderbooks opening in a few weeks. An L2based crew van will join the line-up later in the year. The L1 van has a load capacity of 3.3m3, while the longer L2 can now carry up to 4.2m3. The crew van copes with 2m3 with the rear seats in place, rising to 3m3 when folded forwards. The smaller model has a maximum payload of 608kg, while the L2 can carry up to 764kg. Both can now haul a 1.5-tonne trailer, adding to their versatility.

The L2 models also benefit from a 200mm longer side loading door, making it easier to access the rear compartment. There is also the option of an Easy Inside Rack, in effect a fold-down roof rack that sits inside the van, extending in a pocket above the driver’s head. This allows trades to carry longer loads, pipes and ladders securely within the van, without compromising floor space.

The crew van has a clever fold-

ing rear seat and bulkhead, with the rear seat ending up vertically behind the front occupants, to provide a new bulkhead and more load space. The new Kangoo can also be equipped with a 3kW DC/DC power take-off, that can be used to run conversions such as fridges.

Externally the new van is far more chiselled than its predecessor, with Renault’s signature C-shaped daytime running lights, sculpted sides and a ribbed bonnet giving the van a far more sturdy appearance. Indeed, the wheel track is wider, giving the van a planted appeal that was missing from the original.

Inside the cab the news is even better, with a much improved interior that also feels very well screwed together. There is up to 44 litres of storage space, with dedicated places for mobile phones and lidded storage for paperwork. Automatic air conditioning is standard and there is now

Externally the new van is far more chiselled than its predecessor, with Renault’s signature

C-shaped daytime running lights

a choice of single or double passenger seats. Renault is offering up to 20 ADAS safety and driver assistance systems, though standard equipment varies between trim levels.

Talking of which, there is a Start trim, from £28,100 after the Plugin Van Grant, and an Advance trim, which starts at £29,100 after the PiVG. With an on-cost of £1,000, the higher trim gets Renault’s EasyLink infotainment with an 8” touchscreen, an electric handbrake, the twin passenger seat, a Wide View Mirror, LED lighting in the load area and reverse parking sensors.

Renault claims that the E-Tech vans should attract strong residual values, as demand for electric commercial vehicles increases. With that in mind, the company is offering some very attractive contract and leasing rates, including some rates that include wall box home charger installation for drivers.

With the Kangoo E-Tech arriving in dealers, Renault will complete its electric commercial line-up with the launch of the Trafic E-Tech later in 2023. In addition, it will launch a hydrogen fuel cell-powered Master van and minibus by the end of this year.

continued from p11

Think all locks are the same?

Same species, different level of protection

When it comes to protecting your van, there’s no substitute for strength And when it comes to strength, there’s no substitute for TVL Security TM

CV SHOW 18 –

PREVIEW

20 APRIL 2023 � NEC � BIRMINGHAM

BOTT

Racking and conversions specialist Bott will be back at the show with a much larger stand, demonstrating all three of its racking ranges and in-van storage systems. The company will focus on its electrical capabilities, both in providing electrical functionality to van users, but also in its ability to work with electrically-powered vehicles.

Central to the stand will be Bott’s new van configurator, already operating in Germany and now being launched to UK customers. Compatible with all of the companies racking products, Bott will have staff on the stand to help customers get to grips with the configurator, which can give a moveable image of potential racking solutions in all of the major van bodies. That will include the latest electric LCV models and Bott will have two examples of the growing range of e-vans on the stand with a range of equipment fitted.

TVL

The Commercial Vehicle Show returns to Birmingham’s NEC on April 18-20, bringing together a mix of vehicle manufacturers, converters and service providers. More than 11,000 visitors visited attended the exhibition last year and the organisers are confident that there will be a further increase in demand for 2023. In the first of two show previews, these are some of the companies on display.

Security specialist TVL’s Crime Prevention Zone will be returning to the show this year. Launched at last year’s event, the Tell TVL initiative has already gained support from Bott, Brigade, BVRLA, Mul-T-Lock, On The Tools and TES 2000, with additional backing from National Highways and the National Business Crime Centre. TVL will be joined this year by experts from On The Tools and

Secured By Design, along with representatives of the police, who will be delivering proactive advice and tips to help customers reduce and prevent van and tool theft.

“We’ve seen some good progress in growing the Tell TVL network and we’re delighted to welcome some of our supporters to the CV Show to help us continue spreading the word,” said Laura Moran, managing director of TVL Group.

MAXUS

Following the unveiling last year of a pre-production version of the UK’s first full electric pick-up, the Maxus T90EV, the company will present the production model this year, as part of a wider electric LCV range. Now offering more than 1 tonne of payload, plus a 1.5-tonne tow-

ing capacity, the T90EV promises up to 220 miles of driving range.

Maxus will add to its eDeliver line-up at the show too, with the launch of the eDeliver 7, which fits in the range between the compact eDeliver 3 (above) and the larger eDeliver 9.

Rhino Products to unveil first internal racking product at CV Show!

Announcing their first internal racking product to market, Rhino Products are set to exclusively showcase their new MR4 modular racking to visitors at the CV Show in April.

Tying in the new launch with the company’s 20-year anniversary, MR4 represents Rhino’s first internal vehicle product in their history and will be available later this spring.

The racking has been designed on the same ethos of Rhino’s existing external accessories – to help van users work more efficiently every day. Applying these same principles of quality and design innovation, the new MR4 racking provides an ideal solution for those looking for durable and modern internal racking system.

With leg panels and shelves made from rigid and robust powdercoated steel, alongside sleek and modern aluminium drawers, each MR4 configuration has been tailored to maximise vehicle storage space, with Rhino providing bespoke fitting kits for all units.

Utilising innovative mounting extrusions, MR4 is incredibly easy to fit, with no drilling required for many vehicles, using only Tek screws to secure into place.

Speaking on the new launch, Steve Egerton, Group CEO, said: “We are extremely proud to be revealing our first internal racking product, MR4, at the CV Show this year.

The release of MR4 follows on from our acquisition of van racking manufacturer, Hubb Systems Ltd in 2022, however, we have totally overhauled and upgraded their existing racking r to remove weight, improve the look and ultimately deliver a much higher quality product. At the same time, this launch is only the start of the MR4 journey, with a wealth of stylised additional accessories including drop fronts, kick plates, drop doors and storage containers coming soon. Concepts of these accessories

will be on display at the CV show, with a launch date to follow.”

Shipping of the MR4 range is incredibly quick, thanks to the standard range of shelving and drawer units being flat-packed, in stock and available on a same day despatch/next day delivery service for most locations, with bespoke configurations available for customer requirements.

Following the product unveiling at the CV Show the MR4 racking range will be available to purchase through Rhino’s dedicated online resellers, with a wider product range to launch to trade customers

in the following months.

FEATURES:

PREVIEW

GEARMATE

Gearmate products continue to be an integral part of the UK and Europe’s vehicle accessory market. Since Gearmate’s formation in 2016, the company continues to grow, now serving beyond the UK with partners in Ireland, Belgium, Germany, France, Iceland, Japan, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and many more. It has have a fast-growing, highly-skilled, and dedicated team of employees, operating with an in-house design team, utilising state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment.

Gearmate’s mission is to continue designing solutions to help make its customers’ lives easier; and its goal is to keep innovating. Gearmate continues to launch new products, with a new pioneering product to be unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle show at the NEC Birmingham this April (Stand 5C54). Operators of vans and pick-ups can see the latest products on the stand, where there will be racking and storage available.

You can contact their sales team on 01789 595 200 or sales@gearmate.co.uk. www.gearmate.co.uk.

HYDROGEN VEHICLE SYSTEMS

Glasgow-based Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS) will show a 40-tonne tractor unit powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, as the company edges towards production of a range of hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. Also on the drawing board is a chassis cab that will form the basis of a range of 4.25-7.5-tonne light commercials. The futuristic looking trucks feature a large cab with no intrusion under the floor from a diesel engine. They also boast softer suspension than some competitor trucks, to provide an improved ride.

IVECO

Iveco’s stand will feature both its latest eDaily van range and the S-Way long haul tractor, as the company returns to the NEC. The show will be the first opportunity that many customers have had to see the latest electric Daily models, and to put them to the test on the show’s Ride and Drive circuit. With gross weights of 3.5-7.2 tonnes, the second generation eDaily aims to meet the needs of van operators in every application. With a choice of more than 200 body styles and chassis sizes, three electric PTOs and one, two or three battery packs, the eDaily will be the most configurable electric van in the heavy LCV sector.

LOCKS 4 VANS

Next generation vehicles are being built using a variety of materials, many designed to reduce weight. However, this can cause problems for security companies, as there is less major steelwork to fi x security locks and other systems too. An example of this is Volkswagen’s new ID. Buzz Cargo, which has a body that uses a high degree of composite material.

Locks 4 Vans has also joined forces with the AA.

“At the rear of the van L4V has designed a hook locking solution for the tailgate, while a window shield is available for the glazed rear window. The company has also developed an anti-peel kit for the side loading doors, greatly reducing the risk of a ‘peel and steel’ attack on the van.

PREVIEW

To meet the needs of van drivers and operators, Locks 4 Vans has developed a range of additional security for the latest VW. The fi rm had to adjust how it installed its solutions, in terms of location and bracketry, to ensure that it didn’t compromise functionality or spoil the look and feel of the van.

The roadside rescue business has 36 mobile key cutting vans in operation in the UK

Locks 4 Vans has also joined forces with the AA. The roadside rescue business has 36 mobile key cutting vans in operation in the UK and these can all now assist customers who have L4V security, but have become locked out of their vehicles. The AA vans will carry all of the necessary equipment to gain entry, but will also have on-board replacement L4V locks to refit if necessary.

VISIONTRACK

Artifi cial Intelligence (AI) will take centre stage for Visiontrack this year, as the company shows a range of AI video telematic solutions designed to improve road safety. This will include an AI detection camera for vulnerable road users and an AI-powered post analysis software called NARA.

The detection camera is able to identify pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and people on scooters, while disregarding street furniture. Footage is automatically displayed on an in-cab monitor and supplemented with an audible spoken warn-

FORD

The Blue Oval will once again dominate the entrance to Hall 5, as Ford returns to Birmingham. Expect to see the full range of Transit models, including the all-electric E-Transit and the soon to be launched E-Transit Custom. This rearwheel drive model, to be launched lat-

ing, with precise location of the vulnerable road user in relation to the vehicle.

The NARA post-analysis software is a cloud-based technology that rapidly assesses camera footage to help vehicle operators save time and money, by providing proactive risk intervention and accurate incident verification. What this means is that the system automatically runs through video footage, discarding false incidents and recognising other road users. This saves the transport manager having to run through hours of video footage when there has been no incident.

er this year, will boast a 236-mile driving range.

If that’s still not enough, Ford will have the latest version of its Transit Custom PHEV, now powered by an electric driveline that features a 2.5-litre range extending petrol engine.

SYSTEM EDSTROM

Popular racking provider System Edstrom will be returning to the CV Show this year with a range of racking products. The company will be displaying its own racking configurator, to help buyers to specify their storage solutions. However, the main focus for the firm is reconnecting with customers after the pandemic and System Edstrom is looking forward to meeting existing and potential users at the show.

Catering to vehicles of all sizes and from all industries, we provide a full range of services including tailored specification design, van racking manufacture and installation, electrical systems, invehicle technologies, van graphics design and decal fitting, plus specialist vehicle builds.

modular van racking and storage systems. VISIT US AT THE COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW STAND NO 5C54.

www.gearmate.co.uk

t: 01789 595 200

e: sales@gearmate.co.uk

Having already driven the much-improved Renault Kangoo last year, it comes as little surprise that Mercedes’ new Citan also lifts its game substantially over the van that it replaces. The company claims to have had more input into the compact LCV’s design this time around and it certainly feels more like other Mercedes vans now.

Powertrain

All diesel Citan vans come with the same 1.5-litre diesel engine, delivering 95hp and a healthy 260Nm of torque. In this shorter L1 model that promises to return up to 54.3mpg, while producing 137g/km of CO2 emissions. There will of course also be an electric version of the compact Merc for the first time, when the eCitan arrives later in the year.

With ECO start/stop as standard, the diesel engine drives through a slick six-speed manual gearbox to the front wheels. As an option, you can also specify a seven-speed automatic transmission, for a very reasonable £1,825, which we’ll be trying over the coming months. The manual box is still expected to be the bigger seller for now though.

Load carrying capacity

Citan comes in L1 and L2 bodies, at least it will do when L2 models join the range later this year. This L1 van has a load volume of 3.3m3 and a payload of 666kg in Premium trim. There is no option to load through the fixed bulkhead on this model, so anything longer than 1,806mm would have to be carried on roof bars.

Should you feel the need to tow, both the L1 and the L2 have a gross train weight of 3.5 tonnes, which means a trailer weight of up to 1,270kg. There will also be a crew van version of the longer model joining the line-up later this year, along with the electric vans.

In the cab

There are two trim levels on offer, Progressive and Premium. All models have a multi-function steering wheel, heat-insulating glazing and heated, electrically-adjustable mirrors. Smartphone integration is included as part of the infotainment, which can be accessed through the 7” MBUX multimedia screen.

The Premium model that we have on test adds chrome interior stylish touches, alloy wheels, metallic paint and a gloss black dash trim. You also

“get Highbeam Assist for the LED headlights, which come as part of a Light package that also includes front fogs. All of the vans come with a range of ADAS safety equipment, including Active Brake Assist, Attention Assist, cruise control, Hill-Start Assist and a rear parking package that include sensors and a camera. They also come with a host of airbags, including thorax sidebags and window bags.

There will also be a crew van version of the longer model joining the line-up later this year continued on p22

Mercedes-Benz is looking to build its share of the compact van market with the new Citan, says Dan Gilkes.

ROAD TEST | MERCEDES-BENZ CITAN

On the road

As we found with the latest Renault Kangoo last year, the underpinnings of this new van are spot on and the Citan also offers a vastly improved combination of ride and handling. The suspension is supple, even when unladen and the steering accurate, making it easy to make your way through early morning commuter traffic.

On dual carriageways the Citan feels like a van in a size above, sitting securely in its lane and offering a surprising amount of acceleration when the road ahead clears. When the roads get a bit twistier, it was equally happy to sweep from corner to corner, without upsetting the load or the passenger.

The updated cab environment feels every bit a Mercedes, though it would have been nice to have had a more tactile material on the rather chunky plastic steering wheel. Certainly, everything felt very well screwed together, although for some reason the van’s alarm was a little overactive for the first couple of days. That aside, the MBUX entertainment system continues to impress.

Conclusion

The Mercedes carries a fair premium over its French counterpart, while Nissan’s Townstar sits mid-way between the two. For some companies that three-pointed star will be all of the justification required, though in fairness you will no doubt retain some of that extra investment come resale time too.

In Premium trim, the latest Citan is certainly a covetable compact commercial. We have builders in at the moment and the van got a universal thumbs up from everyone that took a look inside.

Van User Rating – 4.5

Mercedes-Benz Citan

110 Premium L1

Basic price £23,285 Motor 1.5-litre Euro 6D-Full Power 95hp @ 3,750rpm Torque 260Nm @ 1,750rpm

WEIGHTS (KG)

GVW 2,230 Kerb weight 1,564 Payload 666

DIMENSIONS (MM)

Load space length 1,806 Load space width 1,524 Width between wheelarches 1,248 Load space height 1,256 Load volume 3.3m3

COST CONSIDERATIONS

Mpg 54.3mpg CO2 137g/100km Fuel tank 54 Service interval 2 years/18,000 miles Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles

VAN

LINERS, SPRAY LINERS, PROTECTIVE COATINGS

SPEEDLINER® Europe Ltd. has an enviable 22 year track record by being recognised as the first company to introduce a versatile spray-on truck-bed liner to the UK market back in 2000. It continues to be the most successful, longest established, independent and privately owned company offering the best low cost 'start up', non-franchise spray liner system available in the UK and many countries in Europe.

the whole operation to run much more smoothly.”

digitally

SPEEDLINER® Europe Ltd. products are now applied by over 140 authorised Dealers/Application Centres across 12 countries by many vehicle bodyshops and renowned, bespoke coach building and vehicle conversion companies. Due to ever increasing legislation, many panel vans require load area cleaning and washing capabilities to meet specific vehicle hygiene requirements.

01584 877513 www.speedlinereuro.com • info@speedlinereuro.com

www.truckfile.co.uk

The freshest face in the temperaturecontrolled transport industry

We convert vans of any make, model, shape or size into temperaturecontrolled vehicles. We also produce temperaturecontrolled trailers and storage solutions.

Cool van configuration

Temperature-controlled van provider CoolKit is making life easier for customers with the launch of a CoolSelecta configurator. This allows fleet buyers to visualise their van conversion on screen, helping them to choose van make and model and to decide the internal layout that will work best for their operation.

The online configurator provides a three-dimensional rendering of the vehicle that can be digitally altered to find the perfect combination of equipment and components. Customers can see views of both the inside and the external view of the van, which can be seen in a range of colours. All popular makes and models are available.

When the customer is satisfied with the configuration of the vehicle conversion, they submit the design to CoolKit and the company can quote for the work.

“We have found that it is very easy for confusion to arise when attempting to specify transport refrigeration equipment, so we developed CoolSelecta, a fantastic app on our

website that will give customers a full understanding of the choices available, which we think will greatly help to optimise fleet productivity,” said Cameron Javed, CoolKit’s head of technical sales.

“Several pre-set options will help further simplify and facilitate faster turnaround by standardisation. A range of popular options is available to choose from, including mid-bulkheads, safety steps and PVC strips. Other equipment can be tailored to individ-

Managing the chain

The Cold Chain Federation will hold its first Cold Chain Climate Summit, in Warwick on March 15. The event is aimed at facilities managers, fleet managers, environmental engineers and others tasked with managing the climate, sustainability and energy efficiency programmes within the cold chain business. It will include speeches, presentations and debate about leading edge issues for cold chain businesses, in cold storage, transport and systems.

Speakers include Professor Alan McKinnon, of Keuhne Logistics Uni -

versity, Hamburg, Claire Walters regional vice president of Lineage Logistics and Leyla Sayin, from the Centre for Sustainable Cooling at the University of Birmingham. The summit will be followed by a networking lunch and the inaugural Cold Chain Sustainability Awards, recognising businesses and individuals that are leading the way towards a more sustainable UK cold storage and temperature-controlled transport sector.

More details are available at www.coldchainfederation.org.uk.

ual requirements, including shelving, racking and load restraining systems.”

The CoolSelecta system is suitable for vehicle dealers, brokers and end users, allowing all parties to visualise the finished vehicle and agree the specification and appearance prior to build.

“We enjoy seeing our vans on every high street and we hope that the CoolSelecta will help to facilitate this by guiding our customers to make the right choice,” said Javed.

Thermo King expands van range

Temperature control specialist Thermo King has added to its C-Series line-up for small trucks and larger vans. The compressor-driven C-Series models are best suited to multi-drop applications, offering powerful cooling and heating capabilities and improved airflow for internal air circulation.

The C-550, C-650 and C-750 single temperature refrigeration units take the C-Series range up to 50m3 body capacities, for bodies up to 8m in length. With capacities of 5.2kW to 6.8kW, the C-Series range offers refrigeration units for nose, roof and cuvette-mounting applications. Their compact design is said to weigh up to 30% less than some competitors, maximising payloads for customers.

“With their compact, lightweight, powerful, and robust design, these units are going to deliver tremendous value to our customers in the large van, as well as the medium to large truck segments,” said Graham Wells, truck product manager at Thermo King.

“With the new models, customers now have more options to fit their city distribution needs and benefit from this reliable, easy to operate, service and repair technology.”

Putting the brakes on emissions

National foodservice supplier Brakes has put its fi rst all-electric DAF LF refrigerated truck on the road. Designed and built at Leyland Trucks in Lancashire, the LF Electric is expected to cut up to 52 tonnes of CO 2 from the company’s annual emissions. DAF has partnered with Solomon-Frigoblock to provide a multi-temperature box body that offers the same payload as Brakes’ diesel-powered deliv-

ery trucks.

Solomon Commercials has built the dual-compartment body and Frigoblock (a Thermo King brand) has installed its FK2 refrigeration unit. This provides a frozen compartment at the front of the truck and a chilled section at the rear. The FK2 unit draws power directly from the truck’s battery pack and this alone will contribute to an annual 17-tonne CO 2 saving.

Temperature-controlled transport

If you are in the market for a temperature-controlled light commercial, there are plenty of rental businesses that specialise in fridge and freezer vans. If, however, your business has a more permanent need for temperature-controlled transport, there are a few things to be aware of when looking for a van.

What are you carrying?

Temperature-controlled vehicles don’t only transport foodstuffs. Pharmaceuticals, flowers, ice cream, drinks, there can be many tasks that require specific temperatures to be maintained throughout the day. It may also be important to consider the physical

size and shape of the goods to be carried, and how they are to be stored on-board. Manufacturers can provide refrigerated conversions of existing panel vans, or they can be built into dedicated box bodies, to be fitted to a chassis cab.

What does it weigh?

As with any light commercial vehicle, it is important to know the available payload of the van and how much you will need to carry. An insulated body conversion and a refrigeration unit will add weight to the unladen vehicle, reducing the amount of payload on offer. This may require a larger van to carry the same weight of goods.

Also, you may require racking or some form of internal storage, which again will have an effect on final payload capability.

What temperature do you need?

Many temperature-controlled conversions can be built to deliver two or even three different temperature compartments, for ambient, chilled and frozen goods. Drinks for example might need to be carried at 0-8 ° C, while fl owers will prefer 5-7 ° C. Ice cream and other frozen goods could call for a vehicle that can achieve -18--25 ° C, while medicines and pharmaceuticals can require a range of temperatures, calling for a multi-compartment conversion.

Increasingly, temperature-controlled providers are being tasked with proving that the required environment has been maintained through the day. Having sensors in each compartment ensures that the business can prove temperature consistency throughout the day. These sensors can be linked to fl eet management systems to provide a paper trail back to the fl eet manager.

Distance and drop frequency?

Distance is becoming an increasingly important consideration, especially where the base vehicle is battery powered. If the fridge unit is being run from the van’s traction battery, this will reduce available driving range. On the other hand, if the fridge is using a dedicated battery, this will cut into the available payload.

Drop frequency is important, as every time the doors are opened, the internal temperature will be affected, requiring additional cooling from the fridge unit. If the day involves multiple drops, with doors left open for any length of time, then it might be best to have a fridge unit that can cope with the chilling task. Strip curtains can also be used to maintain internal temperatures, even when doors are opened. However, these too will eat into available payload.

“ consider the physical size and shape of the goods to be carried

•Expert free advice – great for small businesses

•Expert free advice – great for small businesses

•New & used refrigerated vehicles – sales and fridge servicing

•New & used refrigerated vehicles – sales and fridge servicing

•Free decal design

•Free decal design

•Specialist supplier to UK frozen food franchises

•Specialist supplier to UK frozen food franchises

•Delivery nationwide

•Delivery nationwide

•Range of small van bespoke conversions

•Range of small van bespoke conversions

•Medium and long term rental available from our sister company, Pola Van Rental

•Medium and long term rental available from our sister company, Pola Van Rental

SHARP DRESSED VAN

Vauxhall believes there is demand for a sporty version of an electric van, with the Vivaro Electric GS, says Dan Gilkes.

Vauxhall is no stranger to the concept of the sporty-looking van, from its infamous Astravan, through to various Sportive models, the company has met the demands of owner drivers and companies that want an LCV with a more desirable image. Indeed, many manufacturers have used a set of alloy wheels, a body kit and some grippier seats to part van buyers from a bit more cash. But does the concept work with an electric van? Does the go-faster image work with an e-LCV? Vauxhall is dipping a toe in the water with this GS version of the increasingly popular Vivaro Electric.

Powertrain

The GS model, as with many of its Sportive predecessors, is more about show than go, at least in this electric model. While the diesel GS gets an extra 35hp over lesser trims, the electric van has a standard Vivaro Electric driveline beneath the war paint. Not that this is anything to complain about. There have been a few new competitors in this sector over the last two year, but Stellantis hit the bullseye when it launched these battery models and

Vauxhall is dipping a toe in the water with this GS version of the increasingly popular Vivaro Electric.

they remain highly competitive.

The GS uses the larger 75kW battery, which offers up to 189 miles of driving range, though twice it promised over 200 miles when fully charged. It didn’t achieve that, however. The van supports up to 100kW DC rapid charging, resulting in an 80% top-up taking just 45 minutes. This works brilliantly, rapidly adding the miles in the time it takes to grab a coffee at a service station.

“The van also comes as standard with a 7kW on-board charger for AC overnight recharging. Unfortunately, the more useful 11kW OBC remains on the options list, so if you can’t find a rapid DC charger, you’ll be waiting considerably longer at the charging point. A full battery charge on a home wallbox would take the driver more than 11 hours.

Load carrying capacity

The GS trim is only offered on the L1H1 panel van model with electric drive, it will also be available on the diesel-powered van and on a double cab model too. That means a load volume of 5.3m3, rising to 5.8m3 with the load-through bulkhead and a more than competitive payload of 1,000kg are available to buyers. You can even tow a 1,000kg trailer if desired, which certainly isn’t the case for all electric vehicles.

The van comes with twin sliding side doors, for easy access to that interior and the FlexCargo load-through facility in the bulkhead, that allows longer loads to be stored under the passenger seat area. Maximum load length at the floor level is 2,512mm, or up to 3,674mm with the FlexCargo panel open. continued on p30

ROAD TEST | VAUXHALL VIVARO ELECTRIC GS

In the cab

With the electric GS, it’s all about the styling, both inside the cab and outside the van. The external body kit is the most noticeable addition to the trim, with its body-coloured front bumper and lip spoiler, sports style rear bumper, rear roof spoiler and side protection mouldings. These are topped off with a set of 18” black alloy wheels, wrapped in low-profile tyres. Beware though, those Y-spoke wheels do stick out beyond the tyres slightly, so drivers should be careful when parking.

Inside the cab there’s what Vauxhall calls eco-leather trim, with red stitching and a leather-clad steering wheel. Surprisingly, given its status at the top of the trim list, seat heating is not standard on the GS, so drivers will want to pre-condition the cab in the winter before sitting on those seats. This is also important if you want to eke out the miles and drive anywhere in the Eco drive mode, as it limits heater performance to the point where it is almost unusable in the winter months.

You do get auto lights and wipers, electrically-adjustable and heated mirrors and the Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment system, which comes with a 7” touchscreen and 3.5” digital cluster in the main instrument panel. In truth, this is the only area where the Stellantis van is starting to show its age, as the screen is relatively small when compared to some newcomers.

On the road

There are no complaints once moving though. The Vivaro Electric delivers quiet, easy acceleration and a comfortable cruising ability. It whispers along with other traffic in town, but can also hold its own on longer dual carriageway runs. The aero kit is said to contribute to additional stability at speed, but that won’t be a concern for many electric van drivers. Suffice to say though, the Vivaro offers a stable, secure ride when unladen.

fully during the driving session, we then drove all the way back without a stop, just to see if it was possible. Again, no concerns.

Conclusion

Vauxhall Vivaro Electric GS

Basic price £51,388 after PiVG Motor Electric Power 136hp (100kW) Torque 260Nm

WEIGHTS (KG)

GVW 3,025 Kerb weight 2,025 Payload 1,000 TOWING 1,000

DIMENSIONS (MM)

Load space length 2,512 Load space width 1,636 Width between wheelarches 1,258 Load space height 1,397

Load volume 5.3m3 (5.8m3 with load-through)

The van also comes with a range of ADAS equipment as standard, including lane departure warning, blind spot detection, semi-adaptive cruise control and forward collision alert with emergency braking. There’s a panoramic rear-view camera to help with lowspeed manoeuvring too, which should ensure that those body styling touches remain unscratched.

We managed a trip from Suffolk to Henley for a launch with a competitor, with just a quick top-up at South Mimms on the M25 without any concerns. Having recharged the battery

So, does the sporty electric van work? Of course it does. There will always be buyers that want something a bit different, that better expresses their business or personal taste. As mentioned, the diesel version of the GS actually gets a bit more performance, but that is not the point with the electric van, there is no need for additional power and certainly no reason to do anything that will reduce driving range or carrying capacity.

The one downside, and it’s a big one, is price. At almost £11,000 above a similarly powered L1 Pro panel van, the GS is an expensive update for a van buyer to swallow. If it works though and the GS van becomes a popular option, don’t be surprised to see a similar model in the smaller Combo Electric range in the future.

Van User Rating – 4.0

TRAVEL SAFE... WITH A TRAVEL SAFE

Each heavy gauge steel unit comes in two parts, a base plate usually fixed to the floor, and a portable container which locks to the base and can only be removed by the key holder.

COLLECT SAFE: Mainly used by roundsmen or retailers taking coins, notes and cheques. Fitted with baffled slot as standard.

COMMERCIAL SAFE: Medium size – ideal for regular collections from vending machines/rent payments etc. Automatically locks into base, and can be supplied with either one or two locks. The single lock operates both lid and base whilst the twin lock version has designated locks.

INDUSTRIAL SAFE: For collections of large amounts of valuables. Has optional tops, ie: roll top, coin chute etc. Two lock version available. For more information, or to discuss your own specific requirements, please call 01308 423871.

www.checkmatesafes.co.uk

Tel: 01308 423871

Fax: 01308 458276

contacts directory

CONVERTING VANS FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION

PROFESSIONAL VAN RACKING AND STORAGE

SYSTEMS

360⁰ Van conversion

Bespoke or standard layouts

Flat pack to full conversion

Crash tested racking

Family owned business

5 year warranty*

*when fitted by our factory trained technicians