CHOICE WIDENS
Page 49
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BELOW 3.5 TONNES LIGHT vehicle operators in the market for a new van can expect to see many new models launched in 1986. At the lightest cud, Bedford will begin building its Rascal micro van — which will also be badged as the Suzuki Super Carry — next month. First-year production is set at 10,000 units. To date, the UK microvan market totals only 7,000 units sold.
Until now, the main competitors in the micro sector have all been Japanese and their vehicle sales have been restricted by import quotas. Bedford says that the sales of its new micro will be split roughly 75 per cent Rascal and 25 per cent Suzuki Super Carry. What ever the final arrangement, the British microvan market will certainly expand this year.
In the car-derived van market, Ford will he replacing its current Escort van around March, with a new version incorporating the smoother family front end used to such good effect on the Fiesta and new Transit (see page 38). Also launching a new car-based model is Volkswagen, which will shortly be offering a Polo van.
By the end of the summer, Austin Rover should also have launched its longawaited diesel Maestro van powered by the joint Perkins/ARG two-litre direct injection engine.
After a comparatively quiet period, both Nissan and 'foyota are poised to introduce new, small panel van models. The "compactNissan Vanette and Toyota Lite-Ace will fill a gap in the market that few manufacturers have so far exploited.
Bedford's CF is likely to be around for sonic years until GM's world van replaces it. Freight Rover will also be sticking with its current, though recently revised. Sherpa range which now boasts composite springs on its 200 Series models (CM November 2, 1985).
The interest in diesel engines continues to grow, led by the fuel-efficient 2.5-litre direct injection Transit engine, although the price of dery does little to encourage its use. Operators who previously had been put off by lack of performance from diesel units can now buy turbocharged diesel vans from Iveco and Volkswagen.
CM's van buyers' guide covers most popular makes of petrol and diesel unit and gives data on payload and interior dimensions. All prices include VAT, although businesses registered for VAT will obviously be able to claim it back. Prospective buyers should also remember that from April 1, 1986, first-year capital allowances go (CM November 24, 1984) with the result that all vehicles become that bit more expensive to buy.
• Light-vehicle roadtest summaries — page 47