Van – Automobiles Review

Limited edition MS-RT Transit Connect R120 is a bit of all white

Connect R1201

Here’s a rendition of ‘Frozen’ that you won’t mind sitting in front of in the run-up to Christmas.

Finished exclusively in Frozen White, the new MS-RT R120 is a Limited Edition of the Welsh company’s QVM-Approved MS-RT Transit Connect.

The company, which uses styling and technology pioneered by Ford’s works rally team, is producing a limited run of 30 R120s in the mainland UK and 6 in Northern Ireland, with the model designed and built at its factory in Pontypool, South Wales.

Priced from £25,995 + VAT, the strictly limited edition is based on the Transit Connect Panel van as a two or three-seater, in either short or long wheelbase configurations. The vehicle is available only in Frozen White, with subtle red and black rally decals and specially designed white rally-inspired OZ Racing Alloy wheels.

The interior receives further MS-RT treatment, with full leather seats with red stitching and a full carbon fibre sports steering wheel with red centre line.

In addition, it gets the MS-RT quad sports exhaust system with black exhaust tips, black mirror caps, bi-xenon headlamps, Ford Pass Connect, cruise control, wireless charging pad, reversing rear camera and dual sliding loading doors.

A further feature is a Maxhaust system, which uses app-based technology to deliver the sound of a sports exhaust through the van’s integral speakers, giving it a soundtrack to match its impressive road dynamics. This product will be a supply-only option from MS-RT.

The van will be available on a strictly limited basis with no plans to increase the production run, guaranteeing its status as a future collectors’ item and helping it stand out from other LCVs on the road.

All MS-RT Transit Connects including the R120 match Ford’s three-year/100,000-mile warranty, with a choice of manual or automatic transmission.

MS-RT Founding Director, Edward Davies, said: “The MS-RT Transit Connect has already been a huge success and we’ve developed the R120 in response to customer demand for something even more bespoke. The special edition model is sure to sell out very quickly and become an icon among fans of the MS-RT brand.”

Each van is constructed by hand at MS-RT’s Pontypool factory, which employs over 80 staff, all individually trained to meet the company’s exacting levels of craftsmanship.

December 30, 2020

Mercedes-Benz reveals winter campaign to support van community

Mercedes-Benz Citan1

Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd has launched a winter campaign, offering two free services* and 0% APR across the range, plus a £250 deposit contribution**, to help keep small businesses moving as the van community ramps up for an unprecedented festive peak.

Coupled with the Brand’s offering of three years unlimited mileage warranty, and 24/7 free roadside assistance***, as well as a round-the-clock, dedicated, nationwide Dealer Network, Mercedes-Benz remains committed to the van community, and supporting them every step of the way.

Andy Lawson, Sales Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, said: “We have seen the van community emerge as the heroes they are this year, and they have shown themselves to be hugely innovative and adaptive, pivoting to fit with changing boundaries. While we have seen a big increase in the amount of both new and used vehicles bought during this year, we are hopeful that this winter offer goes some way to supporting both our existing and prospective customers. Our goal is to remove any uncertainty around maintenance of these vital vehicles.”

December 18, 2020

Renault pro+ unveils the all-new Renault Kangoo van

FFK

The latest generation of the light commercial builds on the success of its award-winning predecessor with a bold, completely new exterior, brand new interior and significant advances in infotainment and driver assistance systems.

The All-New Kangoo promises to revolutionise its segment by complementing its practicality and versatility with an upmarket feel that is generated through a high level of standard equipment and new materials throughout.

Once again, the range will offer business users a 100 per cent electric version. With its zero-tailpipe-emissions-in-use, the All-New Renault Kangoo Z.E. allows professionals to benefit from a highly usable, environmentally compatible van that meets the challenges of urban mobility.

Instantly distinguishing the All-New Kangoo is a completely redesigned front end with an elegant chrome line between the grille and the front bumper. The sleeker front end flows into sculpted sides with a more pronounced profile.

A brand-new interior adds to the car-like sophisticated feel of the All-New Kangoo. The centrepiece is a new horizontal dashboard that has a stylish appearance and numerous storage spaces, while new, completely redesigned seats enhance comfort and durability.

Convenience and safety are heightened with the Renault EASY LINK multimedia system and new driving aids, which include the Permanent Rear View digital interior mirror. This new system provides excellent rear visibility where a bulkhead obscures natural rear-view vision. Other new features will include a host of new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

The new generation model will be available in two lengths. It offers a highly useful volume of 3.3m3 to 3.9m3 in the standard van and from 4.2 m3 to 4.9 m3 in the longer version.

The All-New Kangoo will be produced in Groupe Renault’s Maubeuge factory in France.

The Renault Kangoo has helped Renault to be the European leader in vans since 1998 for 21 consecutive years, with over four million sold since 1997.

The Renault Kangoo Z.E. has made a major contribution to the manufacturer’s standing as a pioneer and leader in electric LCVs in Europe for the last nine years. Since its introduction in 2011, the Renault Kangoo Z.E. has been the best-selling electric commercial vehicle in Europe with over 50,000 sold to date.

Renault PRO+ vehicles account for nearly one in two electric LCVs sold in Europe and Renault is committed to electrify its entire range of vans by 2022.

Further details of the All-New Renault Kangoo will be released in 2021.

December 15, 2020

Peugeot stars at inaugural what car? Van awards

PEUGEOT Van Range1

All models in the PEUGEOT van range were named winners at the What Car? Van Awards, with the PEUGEOT Partner winning the hotly contested Small Van category. What Car?‘s expert judges were left impressed by the Partner’s clever i-Cockpit® interior and it’s excellent 1,009kg maximum payload and up to 4.4m3 load volume.

Steve Huntingford, editor of What Car?, said: “The PEUGEOT Partner designers have had the freedom to unleash some ingenious solutions that make a subtle but significant difference. The Partner’s i-Cockpit® interior layout is the key, as it elevates the small van into something unique in the light commercial vehicle sector, setting it apart from competitors.

“The layout, materials and modern dashboard tech on offer make it feel like it has been built around the driver, and special as a result.”

The PEUGEOT Partner was also named joint-winner for Practicality in the Small Van class, while the Expert was named joint-winner in practicality for the Medium Van category, thanks to its maximum payload of 1,469kg and a load volume of up to 6.6m3.

The PEUGEOT Boxer was named joint-winner for Practicality in the Large Van category, with judges impressed by its vast load volume of 17m3 and maximum payload of 1,870kg.

David Peel, Managing Director of PEUGEOT UK, said: “We’re delighted that the entire PEUGEOT van range has been recognised at the inaugural What Car? Van Awards. Winning the Small Van of the Year award is no easy task, given the quality of competition out there, so we’re very happy to see What Car? recognise each of our vans for their excellent practicality and versatility.“

December 4, 2020

Mercedes-Benz vans debuts two ‘firsts’ – a fully electric van tv campaign and launch of online showroom

Mercedes-Benz Electric Vans1

Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd is launching a new TV campaign, making it the first van manufacturer to air a commercial showing fully electric vehicles, which will promote the ability for customers to ‘shop online’ via a new digital showroom.

The advert, which launches Monday 2 November, will air during breaks on as Great British Bake Off, I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here, Coronation Street, England International Football Friendly, Who Wants to be a Millionaire, and Gogglebox, as part of a significant investment from the Brand.

As well as terrestrial TV, the advert will air across Video On Demand services such as Sky Go and BT Sport, online advertising, and outdoor billboards across the motorway services network, to highlight the eVito and eSprinter.

The six-figure investment in advertising reflects the significantly growing demand from UK businesses to operate all-electric vans, and desire to ‘shop online’.

The Mercedes-Benz Vans online showroom gives customers full visibility of all available vehicles for immediate sales in the UK, powered by the nationwide Dealer Network. Customers can browse new and used stock online, thanks to a wide-range of filters to help find the right vehicle for their business needs and budget with representative finance options available.

Vehicles can then be added to a shortlist for viewing later or comparing with others, and once customers have found their vehicle of choice and click ‘I’m interested’, they are taken to the next stage of the journey, which will flag their chosen vehicle to their preferred Dealer to carry out the transaction off-line.

Andy Lawson, Sales Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, said: “We believe it is important to invest in high profile advertising to continue to raise the profile of the van community, and to show that all-electric vehicles are here to stay. We also know that our customers are extremely resilient and are increasingly turning to new ways to ensure their businesses remain successful, so we’re pleased to be combining our electric vehicle campaign alongside our new online showroom; the time is right to highlight our offering and continue to support those businesses who choose eVans.”

In conjunction with this campaign, retail customers purchasing an eVito are also eligible for a free NewMotion Home Fast Smart charge point, worth £549*. The NewMotion Home Fast Smart charge point offers safe and convenient charging, at up to 7.4 kW** on single-phase grid connections. It is also compatible with both electric cars and vans, and gives charging-related data insights, including kWh power usage, costs, and savings, in real time through an online NewMotion platform, with the added ability to check the live status of any charging session.

December 2, 2020

Even the Scandinavian Winter Cannot Scare the Mercedes eVan! Details here!

2018 Mercedes-Benz eVan Fans and Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts have more occasions for celebrations. The agile and versatile E-Vans have now undergone special drivetrain upgrade that make them even more endurable in extreme situations and more precisely, in winter time.

The eVito, the second-gen electric van by Mercedes-Benz has been put in the harsh atmospheric conditions of the Scandinavian Arjeplog area, where temperatures can easily reach 30 degrees below zero. The van was tested for its efficiency, handling, ergonomics and comfort under such extreme and harsh conditions. The idea behind such tests was to obtain more data about the functions of the whole software interface system, brakes, ESP and all other gadgets that might well change behavior, because of atmospheric changes.

2018 Mercedes-Benz eVan

Fitted for a so-calle inner-city delivery, trade and passenger transport, the eVito is mainly suited for big cities and urban surroundings. However, it is always better to enhance a certain vehile in order to make it more capable for all-terrain use. And as we talk about fine-tuning and tests, we should also mention that the battery capacity of 41.4kWh is capable to reach a total range of 150km/h.

Of course, the team has also given some attention to the driver and passengers themselves. The van is further enhanced with numerous cabin gadgets that ensure comfortable and smooth ride. And this is why the engineers have worked on cabin heating and window heating. When you think about it, such trivial features must not even be mentioned, but keep in mind that we are talking about Scandinavian winter here – it might get a little cold out there.

2018 Mercedes-Benz eVan

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 23, 2018

Vans VS SUVs: a battle for convenience and comfort. On which side are you?

2015 Toyota Sienna Becoming more and more popular, SUVs are known for their sporty elegance, cutting edge technologies and versatile spirit. On the other hand, the good ol’ minivans remain favorite for all these who seek vast amount of space in exchange for some needless features. So, who should go for a minivan and who should go for a SUV? Let’s check out!

Recently, we have witnessed the unveiling of some neat minivans, such as Toyota’s Sienna and Honda’s Odyssey, both of which show contemporary styling and neat technologies. But let’s be honest here: minivans are still used for delivering large groups of people or large amount of cargo in exchange for some performance rates. Yes, you can store your groceries, ski equipment, your boy’s classmates, several spare tires, the new 50-inch TV, more groceries and your German Shepherd and there will be still plenty of interior space for like three other people, but you will lack this neat power boost and flexibility that a contemporary SUV offers.

On the other hand, we do see some titanic increases in the SUV segment sales. And there is a good reason for that: a fine SUV brings incredible utility, flexibility and features, for a reasonable amount of money. Of course, we have seen a lot of issues over the past ten years: poor fuel efficiency, some models have poor ride comfort and many of them are really hard to park.

Knowing that choosing between a SUV and a minivan is a difficult decision for a lot of people, we decided to give our “two cents” about both segments and help them choose wisely. The difficulties come from the fact that both types of vehicles undergo daily changes and can often offer quite neat and more preferable additions that what they offered two years ago.

2015 Honda Pilot

Although cargo capacity is a sort of leading feature, in present days this belief is abandoned. Although there are some large SUV models and some exceptions that are especially created to offer superior amounts of interior space, a conventional sports utility vehicle cannot match a conventional minivan.

In terms of safety, the majority of minivans and SUVs are geared with feasible safety features as tons of airbags, antilock brake systems, passive and active safety features and more. Technology has done well in both segments, but we should mention that a SUV still has a bigger rollover chance than a minivan.

Convenience features

When it comes to driving with children, many experts say that the minivan is the right choice. Becoming a sort of a playhouse on wheels, the vehicle offers enough space for the small ones to play, eat, stand and sleep. Needless to say that this is especially convenient in long road driving sessions.

2015 Kia Sedona

Other good thing is that most recently the competition between brands and minivans heats up a bit, so if you are on the market for a new minivan, you will be pleased to know that there are countless choices and combinations that can fit your style pretty neatly.

But what about the SUVs? More compact and badass-looking, the utility vehicles also bring one more big advantage. Especially if you have to deal with teenagers, or you are in your twenties and searching for your first sporty machine – style. You know we are not talking just for the exterior look. Plenty of the contemporary SUVs have that incredible appearance and unmatched spirit that definitely enhances driver’s confidence.

Also, many SUV drivers say that they feel safer, thanks to vehicle’s higher ride height and the comfortable seating. However, feeling safe or not, parking remains a pain in the butt. Especially with a supersize SUV in weekdays.

Conclusion

So, what should you get? Well, if you are dealing with kids, plenty of grocery bags and two or three dogs, the van is definitely for you. Fitting the family the family needs and everything you need in a single vehicle, the van is also preferred by people who had enough of wild parties, road trips and “fun”.

2015 Ford Explorer Platinum

SUV is the right choice for people who travel through mud and snow, and for these who still desire a bit of sportiness. Or for people want to impress their friends and neighbors, but want to remain agile and versatile with a single vehicle.

Source: BGO Media Team

June 21, 2016

Fiat Fiorino – Best Light Van for 2014

Fiat is celebrating 3^rd consecutive success for Fiorino, which is named “Best Light Van” in the 2014 Van Fleet World Honours. Fiorino’s versatility and capacity convinced the judges to give it maximum points as well as its low running costs.

Fiat Fiorino has a payload of up to 660kg and a load volume of up to 2.5 cubic metres (or 2.8 m³ with folded passenger seat). Thanks to its advanced MultiJet II turbo-diesel engines, the FIAT Fiorino returns up to 65.7 mpg UK (4.3 liters / 100 km) on the combined cycle, while also benefiting its users with long service intervals and low repair costs.

For 2014, Fiat Fiorino customers also have the possibility of opting for the new Sportivo version, which builds on the high specification of the Tecnico model by adding alloy wheels, Sportivo side-stripes and an engine power upgrade to 95HP (70 kW) with no fuel economy or emissions penalties. As with Tecnico versions, air conditioning; Blue&Me™ connectivity with a TomTom satnav dock; front fog lights and parking sensors are also standard, making the Fiat Fiorino Sportivo amongst the best equipped and best value models in its segment at just £9,695.

“While there have been a number of car-derived launches in the last year, none matches the versatility and load-carrying capabilities of the FIAT Fiorino. The addition of enhanced traction versions of the Fiorino – with Traction+ grip control and standard Mud & Snow tyres – simply adds to its versatility, offering operators who regularly have to cope with poor weather conditions a relatively cost-effective alternative.”, commented According to Dan Gilkes, Editor, Van Fleet World.

Source: Fiat

May 27, 2014

2013 Renault Kangoo Van

Renault has announced the new facelifted version of Kangoo Van. The 2013 model is offered with two wheelbase lengths, three versions of the popular 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine (75HP, 90HP and 110HP) and a choice of two- or five-seat versions of the Kangoo Maxi. The five seat “Crew” version features a rear seat that can be tipped forward to accommodate particularly long loads.

The 2013 Kango boasts superb fuel-efficiency. The dCi 75 Stop&Start and dCi 90 Stop&Start engines boast NEDC combined-cycle fuel consumption of just 4.3 litres/100km or 65.7mpg (equivalent to 112g/km of CO2).

To help drivers reduce their fuel consumption further still, the latest-generation engines available for Kangoo come with a gear shift indicator as standard equipment, as well as an ECO mode that can achieve fuel savings of up to 10% by acting on engine torque, the gear shift indications and accelerator pedal mapping.

New Kangoo Van benefits from a connected multimedia system thanks to the introduction of R-Link (optional, or standard equipment for ‘Sport’ versions). This system incorporates the in-dash TomTom® LIVE navigation previously available for Phase 1 Kangoo, plus numerous new functions, such as advance warning of hazardous zones and the ability to download applications like the reading out of e-mails. The range of radios has evolved, too, with a choice of three solutions. All radios come with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, while the next level up is equipped with a CD player. The premium radio integrates with the Renault R-Link system.

Also available is new-generation ESC combined with Hill Start Assist, plus Grip for improved traction in difficult conditions. It goes without saying that New Kangoo Van continues to be available with the many innovations that have forged its reputation, including the sliding rear roof flap.

Source: Renault

February 1, 2013

2012 Fiat Punto Van brings more elegance in the Van range

2012 Fiat Punto Van comes to replace the Grande Punto Van in the brands Professional range of models. In addition to this it carries a lot of improvements compared to the preceding model.

The new Fiat Van model provides a load capacity of 1.0 m3 and a payload of 520 kg. And in addition it features external design modifications with fully coloured front and rear bumpers which give it more sophisticated look.

Furthermore, it is important to mention that this Van actually successfully combines the exterior style of both the Grande Punto and Punto Evo cars.

Regarding the interior of the Punto, it includes new sportier seat fabrics. On the SX version there can be found a new dashboard with soft touch materials and an elegant design.

As a standard equipment for all versions of this model are include the ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), BAS (Brake Assistance System), remote central locking, electric front windows, electrically adjustable and heated body coloured mirrors, trip computer, driver and passenger airbags, radio/CD/MP3 player, electric power steering, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

More importantly, 2012 Fiat Punto Van will come with one diesel engine – the 1.3 MultiJet II diesel, in three levels of power:

• 75hp (55 kW) / 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm)

67.2 MPG (4.2 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 112 g/km CO2 emissions

• 85hp (62 kW) / 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm) with Start&Stop

80.7 MPG (3.5 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 90 g/km CO2 emissions

• 95hp (70 kW) / 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) max torque (at 1500 rpm) with Start&Stop

67.2 MPG (4.2 l/100km) combined fuel consumption and 110 g/km CO2 emissions

The Start&Stop function comes as a standard only on the 1.3 MultiJet II 85hp and 95hp versions. With this function the fuel consumption is lowered to 80.7 MPG and the CO2 emissions to 90 g/km.

The Punto Van will be available in three different pastel colours: White, Dark Blue and Red, thus being able to deliver even more style and elegance to the load-bearing range of vehicles.

The starting price of the 2012 Fiat Punto Van is £10,990.

Source: Fiat

April 24, 2012

Nissan NV200 Offers Best In Class Cargo Efficiency

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd, announced today that its all-new NV200 compact van will offer best in class cargo efficiency when it goes on sale in 2009. Nissan’s engineers have made it possible to combine large cargo space (NV200 will offer the possibility to load up to 4.1 cubic metres) with the exterior dimensions of a compact segment van. (more…)

December 23, 2008

Nissan NV200 Concept Brings “Human Touch” And Personalization To The Small Commercial Van Segment

To most people, a typical small commercial van is little more than an empty box on wheels. But does it have to be? Why can’t it be some different, something innovative and smart? Why can’t a commercial van also be a mobile office? Or combine workspace and living quarters? Or, for example, a mobile lab for a marine biologist/photographer? Why not? (more…)

December 5, 2008

Tag: Van

Convenience features

Conclusion