F&I Management & Training

Eleventh heaven: Vauxhall's manufacturing dominance

BRIT-BUILT VIVARO BOOSTS VAUXHALL VAN SALES

LOW CO₂ CORSAVAN IS TOP CHOICE FOR CAR-DERIVED VAN USERS

PERFECT COMBO-NATION: FRUGAL ENGINES AND HIGHEST PAYLOAD

LONGER RANGE, LOWER CO₂s WITH VAUXHALL'S VIVARO ECOFLEX

MOVANO HEAVY RANGE GETS THRIFTY NEW DERIVATIVE

SERVICE SAVINGS ON COMBO, VIVARO AND MOVANO

VAUXHALL'S CONVERSION KICK WITH WIDEST EVER RANGE

ELEVENTH HEAVEN: VAUXHALL MANUFACTURING DOMINANCE

Luton - Vauxhall built over 58,000 vans in the UK last year, making it Britain's number one commercial vehicle manufacturer for the 11^th year running.

The Luton plant is fast-approaching its 900,000^th Vivaro-type van built in Bedfordshire since start of production a decade ago, with 15,000 manufactured so far this year. The Luton facility will build the next generation Vivaro from 2014.

BRIT-BUILT VIVARO BOOSTS VAUXHALL VAN SALES

This year Vauxhall has sold over 12,500 vans (4,800-plus to small businesses at retail and 7,600-plus to fleet customers).  The Luton-built Vivaro is number two in its segment.

Vauxhall has sold over 450,000 vans in the UK since 2001 making it GM's biggest European commercial vehicle market.

In the first five months of 2013, Vauxhall has seen sales of its award-winning Corsavan increase by nearly a quarter compared with the same period in 2012.

Corsavan sales to small businesses have seen a particularly big increase, with sales up by more than 70 per cent year-on-year, cementing the popularity of this surprisingly roomy, well-equipped, economical van.

In 2012, Vauxhall sold more vans to retail customers than any other manufacturer for the second consecutive year. In an extremely tough commercial vehicle market, the Luton-based manufacturer sold over 11,000 vehicles to small businesses.

LOW CO₂ CORSAVAN IS TOP CHOICE FOR CAR-DERIVED VAN USERS

With combined fuel economy of 83.1mpg and emissions as low as 89g/km, the Corsavan is one of the most fuel efficient small car-derived vans on the market.

Few vans on the market can match Corsavan's low running costs and its capability to both nip around town and make light work of motorway miles. Despite its compact dimensions and sleek styling, the Corsavan boasts a class-leading payload of 550kg.

Another way van operators are saving money is on insurance, with all Corsavan models falling into Group 1E.

All Corsavan models benefit from safe and predictable handling, a spacious cabin and high levels of safety and security. The 1.3-litre CDTi ecoFLEX model with Start/Stop delivers lively performance along with exceptional fuel economy and low emissions.

The Corsavan cabin is built for long-term driver comfort, with its new-look interior detailing, supportive seats and plenty of useful in-cab storage. Prices start from £11,653.33 on-the-road.

PERFECT COMBO-NATION: FRUGAL ENGINES AND HIGHEST PAYLOAD

Launched last year, the Combo achieves the highest payload (up to 1,000kg with driver), large load volume (up to 4.2m³), highest rear axle capacity (1,450kg) and longest wheelbase in its sector.

Combo is available with five different engines, with CO₂ emissions as low as 126g/km and fuel economy of up to 58.9mpg. Prices start from £14,208.33 on-the-road,

A new Combo Crew Van has just been launched, which despite having room for four passengers, is still classified as a commercial vehicle so tradesmen and business owners alike can claim back VAT.

By popular demand from fleets, a Combo Glazed Crew Van will be available with a tailgate window and glazed second row doors.

LONGER RANGE, LOWER CO₂s WITH VAUXHALL'S VIVARO ECOFLEX

The lynchpin of Vauxhall's van range, the Luton-built Vivaro ecoFLEX Euro 5 van boasts low CO₂s of just 174g/km and combined fuel economy of 42.7mpg.

Based on the short wheelbase standard roof models, but with some subtle specification changes, the Vivaro ecoFLEX could save you over £800* in three years versus the 198g/km/37.6mpg standard version.  With its 90-litre fuel tank, the Vivaro ecoFLEX is capable of over 800 miles on one tank of fuel - that's the equivalent of driving from Maidstone to Milan or from Bristol to Brussels and back.

These substantial benefits result from a range of green technology features including exhaust gas circulation cooling and optimised gear ratios.  There's also improved thermal management, low rolling resistance tyres and an aerodynamic kit.

For those wanting to save even more, Vauxhall offers Vivaro ecoFLEX Euro 5 equipped with a fixed speed limiter that yields CO₂ levels as low as 174g/km and with combined fuel economy of up to 42.7mpg.  Also for the first time there is an ecoFLEX version of the popular Vivaro 9-seater Combi for those who need to carry more than two passengers.  Vivaro prices start from £19,053.33 on-the-road.

MOVANO HEAVY RANGE GETS THRIFTY NEW DERIVATIVE

With fuel-saving Start/Stop technology as standard, the new Movano ecoFLEX 2.3CDTi heavy van is available in two power outputs (100PS and 125PS) and wheelbases (L2H2 and L3H2).

The latest edition to Vauxhall's pioneering ecoFLEX range achieves a combined fuel economy of 37.2mpg and CO₂emissions of 199g/km, a five per cent reduction over the standard model. Over the course of 80,000 miles, Movano ecoFLEX operators could save more than £700 per vehicle in fuel costs. Movano pricing starts from £20,708.33 on-the-road.

SERVICE SAVINGS ON COMBO, VIVARO AND MOVANO

In March, Vauxhall introduced two year service intervals on Combo, Vivaro and Movano.

Combo's service interval is now two years or 21,000 miles (18,000 miles for petrol variants) or oil life quality monitor warning, whichever is sooner.  The Movano and British-built Vivaro are now two years or 25,000 miles or oil life quality monitor warning, whichever is sooner.

VAUXHALL'S CONVERSION KICK WITH WIDEST EVER RANGE

Vauxhall currently has its largest ever range of core and recognised conversions - and it's growing further.

Robust and reliable, the Movano offers the ideal platform for conversions.  The tough load-lugger offers numerous benefits for conversions including a range of powerful and economical engines, a large comfortable cabin and two gross vehicle weights (3.5 or 4.5 tonne).  Converters can also choose between chassis or crew cab depending on how many passengers they need to carry and front-, rear- and heavy duty rear-wheel drive.

Conversions account for approximately 35 per cent of the 3.5 to 5 tonne van market with the Luton-based manufacturer offering a choice of core or recognised conversions for customers.

CORE CONVERSIONS 

With a range of 56 vehicles models, up from 13 on the previous generation, core conversions are factory-built by Vauxhall, European Whole Vehicle Type Approval (EWVTA) and fully-covered by the manufacturer's warranty. The expanded range of variants includes dropsides, tippers and box vans in addition to the base offering with both single and crew cabs in three lengths.

Dropside variants are available in the 3.5 tonne gross vehicle weight category with front- or rear-wheel drive. The single and crew cab versions come in three lengths (FWD L2 and L3 and RWD L2, L3 and L4). Depending on the variant, the 2.04m wide load floors are available in four lengths that range between 3.2m and 4.45m, with payloads up to 2130kg. Standard features include aluminium side and tail boards, cabin protection with ladder frame and a resin-coated wooden load floor.

The Movano can also be ordered as a 3.5 tonne gross vehicle weight tipper in two lengths (L2 and L3 variants), as a chassis or crew cab variant with payload up to 1122kg. Standard equipment includes a steel load floor with integrated load securing points, cabin protection with ladder frame as well as aluminium side and tail board with under-run bars.  The extensive list of options also includes steel side and tail boards and a rear ladder rack.  Both Tipper and Dropside variants feature Scattolini bodies.

There's also a box body which is constructed using stable, lightweight aluminium frames and synthetic panels for a high quality exterior. Two sizes are available with 20m³ and 22m³ of load volume that can carry a payload of up to 1935kg depending on variant.  Standard equipment includes an anti-skid floor covering and aluminium lashing rails around the interior.  Options include wind deflectors and a Luton head.

All Movano core conversions come with a three year manufacturer's warranty that covers both the vehicle chassis as well as the conversion.

RECOGNISED CONVERSIONS

Where a more niche or specialist opportunity exists or perhaps a significant variation to the core conversion offer, Vauxhall has a wide range of recognised conversions carried out by specialist UK converters. Recognised Conversions are locally developed to provide vehicles that can be more suitable and adaptable to those end users' requirements.

On these vehicles the manufacturer warranty covers the base vehicle and the converter covers the warranty on the conversion.  All recognised conversions are validated and approved by Vauxhall's Special Vehicle Engineering team based at Millbrook Proving Ground and are subjected to an extensive technical evaluation.

WELFARE VEHICLE (BOTT)

The Vauxhall Movano Welfare Vehicle has been designed by Bott working with their customers to find out what's needed, and then combined that knowledge with their own expertise. As a result they offer a pre-configured welfare van conversion with five crew seats and lots of useful internal features. You can also choose from three rear options to best suit your specific requirements.

The Bott Group is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of workshop equipment, in-vehicle equipment and workplace systems. With production facilities in Germany, the United Kingdom and Hungary, and with licensed partners and importers across the globe, Bott has a worldwide service network enabling them to respond to local needs. From design and manufacture to supply and installation, Bott has a strong reputation for high product quality, service excellence and value for money.

For further details contact:

9 Tournament Way, Ivanhoe Industrial Estate
Ashby de la Zouch, LE65 2UU
Email:v-sales@bottltd.co.uk
Website :www.bottltd.co.uk
Tel: 01530 410600

REFRIGERATED PANEL VAN (COLD CONSORTIUM)

Perfect for the transportation of meat, fish and other temperature dependent chilled or frozen food deliveries, the Movano Cold Consortium refrigerated van conversion features lightweight load area insulation with an easy-clean, bactericide impregnated finish. Unlike many temperature-controlled vans, this Movano conversion is available with or without a PTO, the latter installation saving costs and improving fuel economy.

Other benefits include an eye-level, in-cab digital display for monitoring load area temperature which can be specified by the driver to chiller (0° to 8°C), low temperature (down to -18°C), deep freeze (down to -25°C) or multi-temperature.

For further details (including pricing, options and warranty) contact:

The Cold Consortium Ltd
Unit 8, Holme Industrial Estate
Holme on Spalding Moor, York YO43 4BB
Email:sales@coldconsortium.co.uk 
Website:www.coldconsortium.co.uk
Tel: 01430 861373

REFRIGERATED PANEL VAN (COOLKIT)

Coolkit is able to offer a full range of Vauxhall refrigerated van conversions with Combo & Vivaro both Recognised and Movano in progress. Their conversions utilise lightweight panels resulting in industry-leading payload and dependent on intended use (food; livestock; forensics) they can provide a variety of suitable finishes and options that enable best utilisation. 

CoolKit offers a broad range of fridge van conversions which are renowned for their light weight, durability, versatility and strength - attributes which provide their customers with the highest payload and most reliable service throughout the vehicle lifetime. They also supply products in kit form to companies in the body building and transport refrigeration industries.

For further details contact:

Coolkit Limited
10B1 Mead Way, Shuttleworth Mead
Padham BB127NG
Email: sales@coolkit.org
Website: www.coolkit.org
Tel: 0845 459 5428

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE (GOWRINGS MOBILITY)

The Vauxhall Vivaro from Gowrings Mobility is an extremely spacious and versatile people carrier with a variety of seating options to accommodate larger wheelchairs.  With the ability to carry up to 2 wheelchairs and certified to National Small Series Type Approval the Vauxhall Vivaro is a desirable vehicle for both families and transport operators.

With over 50-years' experience Gowrings Mobility are the original producer of wheelchair accessible vehicles. Their conversions are designed around the needs of the wheelchair passenger and encourage customer independence and improved lifestyle. Customer service lies at the heart of their business.

For further details contact:

Gowrings Mobility
Daytona Drive, Thatcham,
Berkshire, RG19 4ZD
Email: info@gowringsmobility.co.uk
Website: www.gowringsmobility.co.uk
Tel: 0845 608 8020

LUTON BOX BODY (INGIMEX)

Based on a Cab Chassis and designed for dry freight or secure loads, the Ingimex Luton van has a market leading payload and is fitted with many unique features as standard, such as the four tier load lashing system, the high strength wide lath shutter, the full height grab handle and integrated 360° swivel spot lamp.

The 16 cubic metre capacity body is standard with Luton Head over-cab storage and roller shutter doors making the addition of hydraulic lifting equipment an easily orderable option to include. A number of other options can be incorporated either during initial manufacture or on existing vehicles.

For further details contact:

Ingimex Ltd
Halesfield 19, Telford
Shropshire TF7 4QT
Email:sales@ingimex.com
Website:www.ingimex.com
Tel: 01952 585833

LOW FLOOR LUTON BOX BODY (MAXI-LOW)

The Vauxhall Movano Maxi-Low Luton Van is the result of several years of research, testing and prototyping. The final design features a high payload, large capacity and a safe easy exit for unloading (or loading) goods. For the fleet manager or owner-driver this can allow more delivery drops (or collections) during an operational cycle hence increasing the profit opportunity.

The body is manufactured from a lightweight construction of fully recyclable plastic honeycomb panels that results in a payload of up to 1500kg and capacity of 20.0 cu.m (706 cu.ft). The 600mm load floor height together with the 400mm rear step means there is no need for a heavy tail-lift and the aerodynamic canopy reduces drag helping to improve fuel economy. Standard features include: roller shutter rear door, anti-slip floor, opalescent glass-fibre roof panel for improved load area visibility; useful over-cab internal storage facility; interior light.

For further details contact:

Maxi-Low Head Office
18A Regent Street Industrial Estate
Leicester, LE19 2DT
Email:info@maxi-low.co.uk
Website:www.maxi-low.co.uk
 Tel: 01903 215447 or 08700 345505

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE (O&H MOBILITY)

O&H Mobility's Vivaro-based conversions provide spacious and comfortable travel with two configurations available:

Established 25-years ago O&H is built on the back of offering price sensitive and a range of value for money mobility vehicles. Their parent company O&H Vehicle Conversions specialise in conversions from school buses to A&E ambulances offering customers the peace of mind that they are dealing with one of the largest and most experienced conversion companies in the UK.

For further details contact:

O&H Mobility
Larsen Road, Goole
East Yorkshire, DN14 6XG
Website: www.oh-mobility.co.uk
Tel: 0845 600 2218

CAR TRANSPORTER (TGS)

Based on the Movano R4500 HD L4 H1 Chassis Cab, the Translite from TGS is both practical and versatile.

Features such as the double ramps and continuous restraint system ensure vehicle loading is simple, while the lightweight construction and 4500kg vehicle gross vehicle weight means a usable payload of up to 1895kg.

Detail features include anti-slip material to the walkway and convenient ramp storage. A series of options are also available including a roof-mounted beacon bar, rear working lamps and Champion 4309kg power winch.

For further details contact:

TGS Group
Woodpecker House
Balaclava Road
Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3LJ
Email:sales@tgs-group.com
Website:www.tgs-group.com
Tel: 01179 659965

LOW FLOOR LUTON BOX BODY (TRUCKSMITH)

The Vauxhall Movano Low Floor Luton Van (KneeHi) has been ergonomically designed to provide safe and easy entry and exit for operators while loading and unloading goods. The 550mm loading height is the lowest on the market in its class, meaning no need for a heavy tail lift, maximising payload capacity. While the aerodynamic air management system around the new body adds to the stylish appearance, making it the only van for the job.

Standard features include: Double rear doors opening to 270 degrees (other options available); anti-slip plywood floor, opalescent glass fibre roof panel for improved internal visibility; interior lamp; strong bulkhead giving cab security with soft trim on driver's side to reduce noise levels. The standard roof, low floor Luton van has a loadspace volume of 18.5cu.m (653cu.ft.) and payloads up to 1295kg.

For further details contact:

Trucksmith Limited
Kingsmill Industrial Estate
Cullompton, Devon EX15 1BS
Email:mail@trucksmith.co.uk
Website:www.trucksmith.co.ukorwww.kneehi.co.uk
Tel: 0188 433001

CAGED TIPPER (VFS)

Available as an additional cage conversion to existing Movano tippers or as a lightweight tipper and cage conversion to chassis or crew cab models, the Movano caged tipper is ideal for municipal recycling, arboriculture and forestry applications.

The 2.0m high cage is fitted with 270° opening rear doors, full-height nearside sliding side-access door (all load doors fitted with retainers) and 50mm x 50mm galvanised mesh. The five-stage, chrome-plated under floor ram provides a 50° tip angle employing a high performance, 2kW electrohydraulic power pack which can be operated via a cab-mounted, spiral wander-lead

DATED: 20.06.13

FEED: HA