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We ask three operators why they are putting their trust in the Dahl?) Cargo. Their answers? Versatility, efficiency, economy, payload...George Barrow reports.
Vantastec
Vantastec was formed in 2006 by co-directors Gareth Edwards and Cohn Smith, both of whom are ex-engineers from the refrigeration and temperaturecontrolled sector. It specialises in van conversion for chilled, catering and meals-on-wheels businesses.
"We are the type of company that does things other bodybuilders won't touch, or don't know," says Edwards, "such as a fully fitted bespoke catering solution from a single supplier."
Vantastec will buy 150 Fiat vehicles this year from Watts Truck & Van in Cardiff and Newport.
"The Fiat product line-up and dealer support are much better now," says Edwards. "This product is the foundation for our whole business offering. If we weren't confident in the capabilities of Fiat and Doblo Cargo then we wouldn't be using it." Vantastec likes the product's space and versatility. "The design of the loadspace, means a Doble Cargo with insulation will have the same internal dimensions as an equivalent French product without insulation — that's a big plus," he says.
Vantastec is also running Doblo Cargos as service vehicles, instead of short wheelbase panel vans.
The company currently operates two new Dobla Cargos and three of the old model. "Fuel efficiency increased from 26mpg to 49mpg without any impact on its capability, so the product pays for itself, compared to the panel van, on fuel savings alone," says Edwards.
Lex Autolease
Lex Autolease is the UK's largest leasing company with over 74,000 commercial vehicles on its books. Its customers range from individual operators to large multinationals.
Its cost calculator for van operators demonstrates a fleet's running costs, carbon footprint and productivity.
Head of LCV Consultancy Services Grahame Neagus says: "With the new DobId, Fiat has made a van that can carry a tonne, coupled with environmentally performing engines. The new Dobld has taken the reduction in running costs a step further, and pound for pound, the rivals just don't deliver the same savings."
Neagus says the Doblo Cargo's impressive numbers have enticed
New Forest District Council
New Forest District Council transport manager John Steeds controls over 170 vehicles handling bin collection and road sweeping. to painting and electrical jobs. Steeds has to consider costs and the environment in his procurement.
"We needed a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle that could be used equally well for carrying heavy building materials or lighter, bulky equipment,'' Steeds says. "Dobt Cargo was the only suitable vehicle because of the improved payload and the extra length of the long wheelbase vans. We also liked the Doblo's new stop-start system and the Euro-5 engine, to help our fuel costs and environmental impact."
In June, New Forest District Council took delivery of 14 new 1.3-litre Euro-5 Doblo Cargos as fleet "workhorses".
"We expect most of the vans to do between 7,000 and 8,000 miles per year. We'll run the vans for a minimum of five years and up to 100,000 miles," he says.
The long wheelbase vans are on building jobs and with gas-fitters, for payload, while short wheelbase models are used by electricians.
"The drivers are pleased with the extra room inside. We're already seeing fuel savings of around 16%," says Steeds.
"We'll buy more vehicles next year, and we wouldn't hesitate to take more Dobld Cargos. It's a great value, reliable product with good local dealer support."