At the IAA Transportation held at Messe Hannover, Germany, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles revealed the eagerly anticipated next generation Transporter Van range. This all new model is the result of a collaboration project with Ford, with every technical
detail and function improved on the new Transporter, compared with the predecessor, the T6.1.
Transporter T7 offers more space, more payload, more towing capacity, more efficiency and even more safety aspects. While Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has preserved the Transporter’s distinctive design, the brand has also
transformed it, ready for a new era. The seventh generation of the product line will be available as a panel van as well as a passenger-focused Caravelle. The latest turbodiesel, plug-in hybrid and electric Transporter T7 E systems power the vehicles. All-wheel drive is available as an option. In fact, there has never been such a wide array of vans on offer. While the new Transporter is offered as a panel van with high roof and extended wheelbase versions available, the more exclusive Caravelle, with its nine seats, has been developed with commercial passenger transport in mind.
ProOne, the Stellantis Group’s Commercial Vehicle Business Unit has set out its road map to maintain its leading market share as well as strengthening customer relationships locally and globally. Today, though its combined brands of Citroën, Fiat Professional, Opel, Peugeot and Ram, it has over 8 million satisfied customers, Stellantis wants to build on that through vehicle sales and added connectives services.
Last Autumn, its ProOne programme highlighted five key pillars of its 360o approach, through Product; Customer provisions; Conversions; Connected services. Within these main elements are five unique selling points:
n Most advanced driver assistance systems - AdAS; highest number in its class
n Highly connected with customers through telematics and fleet management systems
n Specialised Conversions; improve fit-out standards with digital transactions, new concepts
n Increase space and efficiency: less footprint/more capacity, better payload
n Trend setter: With 43 years of sector experience; continuously evolving.
Luca Marengo, Head of Product –Serial Commercial Vehicles Business Unit, who has been working with Fiat Professional, especially within the large vans segment, enthused about the new 2.2-litre MultiJet diesel engine, offering high performance with lower fuel economy. Power outputs are 120,
140 and 180 hp, the latter with 400 Nm of torque. In addition, there is a new 8-speed automated transmission that can be installed in models of up to 5-tonnes GVW. Together with a new aerodynamics package, the overall reduction in fuel consumption is estimated at 10%.
The new improved battery electric variant, which comes in two lengths and two heights, now has a 200kW battery pack, delivering 270hp and 410 Nm. Like the internal combustion engined versions, there is no compromise on load volumes which range from 13m3 to 17m3, with payloads from 700 to 1,500 kg on offer.
Then there’s the newly developed hydrogen powered unit, with 110kW motor and 410 Nm, providing up to 500km, yet taking only five minutes to refuel.
Luca was also highly praiseworthy of the class leading driver assistance systems on board the combined Stellantis large van line up. “Twenty one in all,” he said, “which includes driving and parking systems, traffic assist, active cruise control, and lane centring that reaches Level 2 autonomous assisted driving.”
Stellantis ProOne Large VansMeeting Customer Expectations
*Citroën
Relay; Fiat Ducato; Opel Movano; Peugeot Boxer; Ram ProMaster
planning.
Significant time and detail was given over to one of the main aspects of the Stellantis van business. With one in two vans sold having some form of fit-out, be it having a full set of applications and/or equipment fitted for a particular task or maybe a few extras, all of these customers, whether they are B2B or B2C, are well catered for. These specialist areas cover everything from buses, ambulances, campervans, construction or municipal type vehicles,
Element number three from the above USPs outlines the many driver comforts and engagement with the driver. Items such as the electronic parking brake, keyless entry and start, digital rear view mirror, and office desk type worktop, together with fleet management systems that cover aspects such as preventative maintenance, driver coaching, dispatch scheduling and
and box bodies to racking in the van itself. Whether these works are carried out at the factory or undertaken by any of the brands’ authorised bodybuilders or converters, high levels of quality is assured throughout. direct from the factory, are a selection of conversion readies including dropsides, 1 & 3-way tippers, crew-cabs and new Cargo boxes. digital ordering with an online catalogue and support is also available, as part of the growth strategy.
Amazingly, the Stellantis large van platform has been Europe’s number one for sixteen years in a row. In fact, of all the recreational vehicles on European roads today, 75% have a Stellantis
branding somewhere on it. By the way a new battery electric campervan base has also been developed.
One most interesting design development is the new all electric, dedicated delivery Van concept, a global product, which comes with automatic sliding kerbside door, walk through from cab to load area, side and rear steps and passenger jump seat.
According to Luca, the predominantly square shape of Stellantis’ large vans such as the Fiat ducato offers more load volume than others in its category. He stated that for the main fleet operators, ten of these vans can do the work of twelve of some of their competitors in terms of cubic capacity.
Mentioning the ducato, it has been a trend setter since its arrival in 1981 as the first direct injection diesel with front wheel drive. Nine years later, a 4x4 version was launched along with Fiat’s
All three powertrains created for the Stellantis ProOne large vans were driven on what was once General Motors’ test centre outside Frankfurt. This vast proving ground at Rodgau-dudenhofen, which has over 60 kilometres of different roads and a selection of surfaces, covers 280 hectares in all.
large sized hydrogen powered vans. Two main issues of concern permeate around hydrogen, namely the overall cost of the technology, and the lack of public refuelling stations. Lars Peter Thiesen, Manager Hydrogen & Fuel Cell deployment Strategy outlined the EU Council Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation 2023, which means that it is mandatory for all Member States to provide one station per 200 km on the main corridors (TEN-T) and have one station per each urban mode, to facilitate 700 bar pressure refuelling for cars/vans/ trucks/buses. Therefore, by 2030, there
first attempt at electric propulsion.
The repositioning of the gear lever to the centre of the dash area was followed by the first common rail diesel engine along with a natural gas variant In 2002. Other innovations included the automated transmission for campervans in 2006 and the addition of a weight limit of up to 4.5-tonnes in 2014. Then ten years later, the most efficient, functional, safer and connected large light commercial has emerged.
For the visiting journalists, the hydrogen powered versions, available from the Citroën, Fiat, Peugeot and Opel brands were of keen interest. Currently they are available in Germany and France, with the Netherlands and Belgium, the next target markets. Basically, where the refill infrastructure exists. Like BEVs, H2 emission free power meets company fleet decarbonisation requirements, assures access to city restricted areas and has no compromise in usage. On the plus side is the fast refuelling, increased range and being independent from the national electrical grid. The hydrogen version drives just like an electric too! Price wise, overall prices have reduced significantly, with its mid-size H2 van costing now priced at around €74,000 - that’s about 40% less than originally priced. To date, up to 1,000 orders are in place for Stellantis mid and
will be 500 H2 stations across Europe. For reference, there are four in the whole of Britain at present.
Lars and his development team at Stellantis came up with a mid-power concept, combining a 110 kW/410 Nm electric motor, a 45 kW Fuel Cell stack with 7 kg Hydrogen capacity and 11 kWh battery pack. As he explained, this has advantages when it comes to packaging, performance, cost and energy reserve (plug-in) and offering the same cargo space as ICE/BEV types. Range is 500 km with a regulated top speed of 90 km/h. With two sizes and load volumes, its GVW is 4.250 kg with a payload of 1,370 kg.
When Transit was originally launched back in 1965, it could be argued that there was not a great deal of competition, and that consequently the van had the market somewhat to itself for quite some time. This allowed it to become firmly established within the hearts, minds, and pockets of the light commercial user. Today however, Ford’s Transit has an array of competitors offering a range of high-quality products to tempt the loyal Transit devotee away from the famous blue oval. As a new Transit Custom hits the road, does Ford’s contender in the one tonne segment still have what it takes to fend off the challengers?
The latest version of Ford’s Transit Custom does not stray too far in styling and design from its predecessor and remains easily recognisable. This test unit, a Trend 300 L2 model, came with the option of one sliding door positioned on the near-side. Open the options list for Transit however, and the choices appear to be endless. From powered sliding doors on both sides to a host of safety features for driving, and security features including deadlocks for the load area, there are other options to enhance the van’s appearance, and further
New Ford Transit Custom - ‘Transit, Custom & Tradition’
options to meet the nature of the work. Regarding work, the slightly lowered cargo floor is accessed through the 1-metre-wide side, and 1.5metre-wide rear doors and includes sufficient lashing points and a full-size bulkhead. The capacity of this test model was rated at 5.8 cubic metres.
Access to the cabin is generous though it would be eased slightly with an upper grab handle to aid getting in when one hand is occupied. Once inside the cabin is pleasant and functional. The materials used are practical and suitable for the type of vehicle. Seating is comfortable with a good range of movement and while there is a good adjustment on the steering column there are no armrests on the driver’s seat which would be helpful for those long journeys.
From the driver’s seat visibility is excellent and Transit has an array of important safety features including a reversing camera, lane-keeping assist, and all-round proximity sensors that combine to help reduce the potential for those costly minor knocks and bumps.
Additional equipment includes Apple/Android Car Play and a centre-mounted touchscreen through which the windscreen demisting and climate controls are activated. While the screen is well positioned and has a good resolution it does take a short time to become familiar with using the system. The driver facing binnacle offers a wide selection of vehicle, driving, and
trip data, including fuel consumption which in this case averaged about 7.3 l/100 km. Storage around the cabin is adequate, allowing for water bottles and an A4 folder or clipboard, and on the road, the cabin is reasonably quiet. One issue was when moving off the electric parking brake was inclined to bind slightly and not release as quickly as we would like. This made the initial moving off somewhat sharp - although this may ease with time.
In the test unit, the 2.0 litre 150 hp EcoBlue diesel was matched to a 6-speed manual, although as we have previously noted there is no shortage of driveline options available. Overall performance was brisk and the Custom offered a comfortable ride with well-balanced braking, accurate steering, and a good turning circle.
As mentioned, when Transit was originally launched there were not many competitors. Today that has changed dramatically. Nevertheless, it is worth highlighting that even in the face of such competent competition, Ford’s Transit Custom was crowned International Van of the Year 2024 - and that accolade is not awarded without it being well deserved.
Text & Photos: Paul White – paul@fleet.ie
One of the many plus factors of the Volkswagen California campervan over its many iterations (and 280,000 unit sales) is that it can be used all year round, even when not on mobile leisure duty. California has become a handy runaround vehicle, carrying people and loads to wherever, whenever. However one drawback with versions up to now was that they were not designed primarily for right hand drive countries. Because of the location of the kitchen unit, there was no kerbside (left hand side) sliding door fitted. This wasn’t a problem where you drive on the right, but was not ideal in markets like Ireland where passengers had to exit into traffic.
Thanks to the next generation California, based for the first time on Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new long wheel base Multivan people carrier, that issue has been resolved and rectified. There are now two side sliding doors fitted, and a shorter kitchen block created that allows easy access from both sides. Fair to say, that the latest
New Volkswagen California - the 24/7365 Campervan & Van!
California is a step above its predecessors, (all based on the Transporter van chassis and body) and the rest - more spacious, versatile, flexible, smarter, sustainable, safer and more durable.
Spaciousness stems from the fact that the Multivan is constructed on VW Group’s MQB platform, which means the body shell sits a little lower, plus it’s a bit wider and longer, all adding to the roominess inside. As mentioned, the shorter kitchen unit, which still houses a cooking hob, sink, fridge and storage areas, allows ease of entry from the kerb side door on RHd models now, while awnings can be fitted on either side of the ‘van, thereby enhancing the exterior space. As before a table and two folding chairs are provided, stored neatly in the rear).
The latest California’s versatility is further highlighted by the now two separate folding rear seats that can move forward and back on rails to further enhance flexibility. The swivelling front seats offer more adjustment for driver comfort and the one touch interior lighting system has been improved with LEds installed.
New Cali has got smarter with touch screen controls on the dash (as per VW passenger cars) and on the control pad in the rear section. Alternatively, all
functions can be operated via a corresponding in car App on the infotainment system and the California App on a smartphone.
The new California’s sustainability comes in many forms but mainly through the drivetrain options. VW Group’s latest 2.0-litre TdI 150 PS turbo diesel direct injection engine is offered and from our experience will deliver good average fuel economy as experienced over a three day, three country 600 km test in Central and Eastern Europe, returning 7.1 L/100 km. Taking into consideration that the Cali weighs in at 2.5 tonnes plus passengers and equipment, plus that the air con was on full works during the 36.5 degree Slovenia summer heat, that’s a pretty impressive figure. The MQB platform also facilities the fitting of a petrol/electric hybrid powertrain option - an eHybrid with a system output of 180 kW (245 PS) which will be available next year, thereby enabling emission free travel for short distances.
Strong and durable interior fixtures and fittings ensure long life, backed up by quality build processes. No rattles or hums had to be endured during the scenic drives.
durability is to come in another form, with the introduction of the 4MOTION 4x4 in due course.
Connectivity is provided through the smartphone links, with numerous charge points around the cabin. For night-time, practical roller blinds are integrated into the window frames on the sliding doors and boot lid. For the front side windows, opaque shades are again used that are fastened to the door frame by magnets; in the Coast and Ocean versions, the shades are a new-design thermal variety. The windscreen is now covered with an opaque shade that is attached via integrated rods in the window frame; in the California Coast and California Ocean, this is designed as a new insulated shade. driving the new California around North Western Croatia initially impressions were that it did not seem any different to drive size wise. This was especially apparent on the mountain passes, where on one occasion two large B class campers had difficulty when meeting each other and had to reverse to a wider spot. No such issues for the Multivan Cali there! This part of Europe is awash with campervans, motor homes and caravans, all adding to traffic
delays, even on the motorways. Again the Cali’s versatility is obvious as it’s an easy to get around, runaround vehicle.
Another eco-friendly side is that the Mėlange Raven seat fabric is made from recycled materials. The water tank now carries 5 litres more fresh water than before, up to 28 litres, with the filler positioned inside at the rear section ensuring there will be no be no mistakes in refilling and not refuelling with diesel, which has happened.
A two up and two down sleeping arrangement is provided when the rear
seats are folded down and the fold up mattress is spread out. The roof tent, with its hydraulic opening and closing mechanism is easier to use and all the fittings are well made and secured inside.
The MQB platform accommodates a wide range of driver assist systems providing additional safety and comfort – these range from the oncoming vehicle braking when turning function to Travel Assist, which offers semi-automated driving assistance and thus increases long-distance driving comfort.
The 600 km plus journeys through Slovenia, touching on Italy and Croatia were most pleasant, including the overnights in the top bunk!
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland will market the Beach Camper (with 6 seats), Coast and Ocean trim lines with the 150 PS dSG TdI engine variant. Orders will open at the end of Q4 this year with display models being available to see at California specialist dealerships at this time also. Customer deliveries are expected in Q1 2025.
Wheels/Tyres: 7.5 J x 18 dimensions: Height; 1990 mm Length: 5173 mm (4904mm)* Width: 1941 mm (1904mm)*
Wheelbase: 3124 mm roof height: Closed; 1297 mm, Open; 2108 mm
Colours: Exterior; Candy White/ Starlight Blue metallic interior; Raven Sandwick *compared to outgoing model
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This is probably the last variation of the Vito Van as we know it, with MercedesBenz intent on moving to its multi-electromobility platforms for its future light commercial models. Today’s Vito is in its second generation and Model Year 2024 is series 5 in its lifetime, following sequential facelifts and upgrades over the years.
Therefore, the latest medium sized panel van from Mercedes-Benz features all the present technology in terms of safety, driver comfort, efficiency and economy.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Select 119 CdI
Vito has always enjoyed a broad customer base that extends from corporate owners, van hire and fleet operators to small businesses and self-employed engineers, trades people, professional services, and parcel delivery specialists. The new version brings them into a new world of connectivity and digital experiences.
While the standard body shape remains as before, the frontal area has been upgraded to give it a more premium presence, with a broader grille and new LEd lights (front and rear) and bumper design. Inside gets a make-over also, with design traits similar to that of its passenger car siblings. All the knobs, levers and touch screen elements are ‘ditto’ on the Vito!
There are three model types to choose from in the current Vito range, the panel van, the Mixto crew-cab type and the all-seater Vito Tourer, all powered by a conventional 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. Three trim levels - Base, Pro and Select are offered, with the latter spec reviewed here. The transmission options are a 9G-Tronic or 6-speed manual. Aside from the diesel models, an electric eVito is also part of the family.
For customers whose operations could benefit from digital networking, connectivity and a host of other digital extras that can make work significantly more efficient, MercedesBenz Vans has added to the standard equipment on the Vito. One key feature is the acclaimed Mercedes-Benz MBUX multimedia system, shared from its car side, that comes with the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistance, all centred around a dash-mounted 10.25-inch touch screen display. On top of that is the ‘Mercedes me’ App feature, where drivers can connect to layers of interactive, remotely operated controls, monitors, safety supports and assistance features. Other standard tech elements include additional safety systems, and an expanded range of driver assistance systems.
except for the aforementioned steering controls. The multifaceted and functional buttons are just too small and fidgety, especially for drivers with big hands! A bit too distracting in trying to obtain the information sought from the dash or to use the audio controls. An induction programme may be necessary in this regard in order to get the benefit of what is achievable. One item that is simple to engage is the adaptive cruise control, just one flick of a switch is necessary.
From the near 1,000 kilometres covered during the test week, it returned as specified - 7.2l/100 km, in the combined WLTP reading, helped by a very efficient 7 speed automatic gearbox, the only way to go these days for van drivers. For full practical usage, a two person passenger bench seat, which is available as standard, is recommended. The version tested was fitted with a single passenger seat.
The new Vito is priced from €35,106 for the 110 panel van version with Base equipment line. This hi-spec version retails at almost €50,000 ex vat.
Hard to believe that Vito entered the segment over the 25 years ago and this refreshed version will see the brand and its customers well into the next decade.
Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie
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Items include reversing camera, smartphone connectivity, increased comfort levels, keyless start, electric parking brake, and a high-quality appearance reflected in its new grille and frontal design, and new 5.5-inch colour display and new steering wheel with menu selection touch controls.
Putting the Vito to the test, every aspect was faultless, as it drove well, effectively and efficiently,
Tank size: Fuel; 70-litres AdBlue; Co2 emissions: 188g/km
Fuel consumption: 7.2l/100km combined
price: €49,948 ex-Vat, as tested
FLEET TRANSPORT Green Commercial of the Year Awards 2025
The number of electric light commercial vehicles on sale continues to expand, with most LCV manufacturers now offering at least one all-electric product in their line-ups. There’s now an electric light commercial vehicle to fit every need and application, from car derived vans to large panel vans and chassis cabs capable of meeting specialist requirements.
LCV Contenders for the Fleet Transport Awards 2025 – Irish Green Commercials of the Year
• Awards sponsored by ePower highlight the burgeoning range of electric LCVs now on sale
Newer models are not only closing the gap to what their diesel counterparts can offer with regards to load volumes, payloads and towing capabilities, but prices are also becoming more closely aligned, while range capabilities continue to improve, making electric LCVs ever more competitive from a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) perspective.
The line-up of contenders for the Fleet Transport Awards 2025 Irish Green Commercial of the Year categories reflect this ever more important sector, with the light commercial vehicles outlined below joining their heavy duty counterparts featured in the last issue to compete for these prestigious awards sponsored by ePower, Ireland’s leading EV Charging and Solar provider.
The all-electric MG5 estate car has proven to be a popular choice with Irish buyers since its launch. By removing the rear seats, the MG5 Commercial (Car derived Van) adds to this practicality, offering a generous 1,367 litres of load space, while appearing identical from the outside to the passenger version. A 57.7 (useable) kWh battery will see the MG5 Commercial cover 403km on a single charge measured on a WLTP combined cycle, while specifications of Excite and Exclusive trims are the same as for the passenger models.
mAxu S ed e L i V er 3
The most compact van in Maxus’s family, the edeliver 3 can cover up to 243km (WLTP Combined cycle) on a single charge from its 50.23kWh battery. A smaller 35kWh unit is also offered. Payloads of up to 945kg are generous, while up to 4.8 cubic metres can be accommodated in the load area that measures L: 4555 W: 1780 H: 1895mm. A Chassis Cab model is also offered.
m G5 Commer C i AL
Renault was one of the first manufacturers to offer an electric compact van, but the second generation k angoo E-Tech has moved the game on considerably. A 120hp electric motor matched to a 44 kWh battery gives up to 300km driving range. Notably it is one of the few EVs to come with 22kW AC charging. 80kW dC charging is also possible. A payload of 608kg and towing capacity of up to 1.5 tonnes compare well with diesel versions. Offered in MWB and LWB lengths, load volumes are 3.3 and 4.2 cubic metres respectively.
S T e LLANT i S - Ci T roë N ë -Ber L i NG o / Fi AT e - d o BLò / o pe L Com B o-e / p eu G eoT e- pA r TN er
Revised versions of the Stellantis Group’s compact vans are now arriving into Ireland. Notable updates include an improved driving range for the electric models, up 50km to 330km thanks to a slightly bigger 50kWh battery and 136hp electric motor. Updated interiors with the latest interfaces and external styling cues that better reflect each brands’ design philosophies keep these compact vans very much up to date. Load volumes up to 4.4 cubic metres (L2 models) compare well with rivals.
7
Maxus’s all-electric offering in the mid-size 1-tonne van segment has the capabilities to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, offering a payload capability of 1,135kg and a trailer towing capacity of up to 1.5 tonnes. 77 or 88kWh (useable) batteries matched to a 150kW electric motor can provide for a range of up to 370km on WLTP combined cycles. Up to 90kW dC charging is possible. Offered in two body lengths, the edELIVER 7 comes with load volumes of 5.9 and 6.7 cubic metres.
m er C ede S -Be N z eVi To
With the arrival of a significantly revised diesel Vito, a similarly updated electric eVito is set to follow. The 60kWh battery and 116PS/85kW electric motor powering the front wheels are largely carried over from the 2022 upgrade though now offer up to 219km on a charge thanks to an enhanced heat pump. Inside gets a significant makeover with the latest MBUX multi-media system that includes specific functions to support electric vehicle charging and range management. Active safety systems have also been enhanced.
r e NAu LT kANG oo e -Te C h
mAxu S ede L i V er
Stelantis Group’s mid-sized vans have also received makeovers, with external styling cues in line with each of the brand’s other models. Battery sizes of 50 and 75kWh remain as before but ranges are slightly improved, now up to 352km. It’s the interiors that get the biggest upgrades with improved infotainment systems and redesigned steering wheels, while driver assistance systems are also enhanced. Load volumes of up to 6.6 cubic metres and payloads up to 1263 kg are possible.
r e NAu LT Tr AF i C e -Te C h
While electric versions of Renault’s compact k angoo and large Master van have been around for a while, the French manufacturer has now launched an all-electric contender in the 1-tonne segment. Based on the latest generation diesel Trafic, the Trafic E-Tech matches a 52kWh battery to a 120hp electric motor to return a maximum driving range of 297km. A choice of lengths and body heights are being offered from the factory, giving load space up to 8.9 cubic metres and a useable length of 4.14 metres.
The Id. Buzz Cargo combines the retro-styling visual appeal of the passenger vehicle with the practicality of a van, coming with a useful 3.9 cubic metres of load volume that can accommodate two Euro Pallets, and a payload of 650kg. It can also tow trailers with a weight of up to 1 tonne. A 77kWh battery powers an electric motor developing 204hp from the rear axle, giving a driving range of up to 425km. A more powerful version with dual electric motors and all wheel drive is coming early next year.
mAxu S ede L i V er 9
The large electric van offering from Maxus offers flexibility and practicality with up to 11 cubic metres of load space on offer and payloads of up to 1200kg. Two body length options are available, and a choice of 51.5kWh or 72kWh batteries are matched to a 150kW electric motor, giving ranges of up to 235km on a single charge. Chassis cab variants are also available.
