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B uckles
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and bells
Accessories aren't just for the fashion pages. The right products can transform your van into a maximum profit and security zone.
Van buyers are a practical lot when it comes to 'accessorising' their vehicles. Protecting the vehicle comes top of the list, whether from damage caused by the load, the environment or thieves.
Van manufacturers are now very keen to get your business as aftermarket suppliers. Citroen and LDV were among the first to recognise that adding optional equipment could transform panel vans from run-of-the-mill load carriers into versatile workhorses, and other manufacturers have followed them.
Most offer vehicle protection systems. such as headlamp grilles, bulkheads, load floor mats, interior linings, add-on security system and, increasingly, satellite nagivation systems. Some are on-line fits (such as tow-bar electrical systems) while others are dealer fits.
According to Volkswagen, headlamp covers, light guards, load liners and roof bars are the most popular options.
As well as load management accessories, LDV lists tow steps, reversing bleepers, extra security measures and first aid kits among its most popular options.
Some accessories are standard on some makes and models and optional on others, so do check. Iveco, fri example, is one of the few to offer a full-height bulldieac. as standard. Security options also vary
considerably. Central locking is increasingly a standard fit, but not on all marques. It's easier for drivers to secure the vehicle and operators benefit from extra load security, especially on multi-drop work. Option prices start at around the f300 mark.
From a safety point of view it's worth remembering that ABS braking, for instance, is not standard on many models, or is limited—on Vitos and Sprinters, for example—to higher-powered models. A driver's air bag is also D only an option on many models. Cruise control is another option increasingly specified by fleet operators. Electronic engines make it a cheaper option to fit, Iveco points out, with obvious benefits in reduced fuel bills and the knowledge that none of your staff are breaking the law Rear-end damage is a perennial problem with van fleets, hence the enduring popularity of the Hope Safe-T-Bar rear protection bumper which has been expanded to include a Smart version incorporating Autosonics' BackMinder ultra-sonic reversing aid.
The steel alloy bar has flexible mountings that allow the bumper to retract when it comes into contact with an obstacle. It takes minutes to fit, says Hope, and needs no bodywork modification. Models are also available to suit recessed steps and centre or off-set tow bars.
The latest Transit model has a mounting bracket that allows the tow height to be adjusted by as much as 96mm depending on the model; it costs £202.
Once viewed as luxury items, satellite navigation systems are proving popular productivity boosters with courier and local delivery companies. The systems currently available tend to be incorporated into audio equipment, reflecting their top-of-therange car heritage.
Mercedes and Fiat are offering the Blaupunkt Travelpilot while lveco and Renault buyers can choose a Becker system. Fiat is also offering its multi-level telematics system, which it sells as Connect.
Mercedes-Benz is launching an accessories booklet for Vito and Sprinter vans which will be
available at dealers from 18 March. CM was given a sneak preview, and among the new options are a wood-effect dashboard trim and a communications console.
The dash trim has an adhesive backing and simply sticks in place; it costs £152.75 (inc-VAT) on the Sprinter.
For site work, portable washing facilities such as those sold by Teal improve worker comfort. One of the latest conveniences is a cool box that plugs in to the cigar socket or an electric point
Load handling
Load floor mats help protect the floor from damage and absorb noise and vibration. Among the new Mercedes range of floor coverings is a heavy-duty black rubber mat with a criss-cross pattern designed to increase surface friction and keep loads in place during transit. The non-slip mat costs &i.53 in a Vito and £63.45 in a LWB Sprinter (inc-VAT).
Mercedes is also among van makers offering optional plastic luggage. compartment trays to keep bits and pieces in place and to protect the lining from spills. One option from Renault is a load-restraint net suspended from three roof-mounted bars.
lveco has introduced a one-piece timm-thick wooden floor liner. Eliminating any joints ensures more even wear, it says, and ensures that the van looks in tip-top condition when it comes to selling it. Internal sidewall liners costs f75.
• by Sharon Clancy
For more details of ply liner kits see CM 29 Nov-5 Dec 2001.