New Fiat Multipla 106-cu-ft. Van
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LATEST newcomer to the growing range of small. 1-4 economy vans is a new import from Italy by Fiat (England), Ltd., Water Road, Wembley, Middx. Based on the Multipla saloon, the van has a four-cylindered water-cooled engine of 633 c.c., developing 22 b.h.p. at 4,600 r.p.m., mounted longitudinally at the rear. and all-round independent suspension.
The van body, by Siata of Turin, is of integral steel and aluminium-alloy construction. On a wheelbase of 6 ft. 61 in., the body is 12 ft. 2 in. long overatl. The internal dimensions are: length from driver's seat to engine cowling, 4 ft. 4 in., width, 4 ft. 8 in., and height, 4 ft. Above the engine there is further storage space, 2 ft. 3 in. deep, 4 ft. I in. wide and 2 ft. 4 in. high. The capacity is 106 Cu. ft., and maximum load 1,034 lb.
Interior panelling is in hardboard, with linoleum flooring. The bulkhead behind the cab consists of horizontal steel tubes, protecting the driver should a load shift forward and at the same time providing unobstructed vision to the rear. There is one large sliding door panel (3 ft. 6 in. square) to the load compartment on the near side, and the upper half of the rear .panel is hinged at the top to facilitate loading of smaller parcels or allow long loads to be carried. Below the loading panel, a second hinged door gives access to the engine.
Theforward-control cab gives adequate room for driver and one passenger, seated on a bench With adjustable squab. A heater-demister is provided. The spare wheel is carried in an upright position in a well in front of the passenger, and there is a document pocket in the nearside door. Twin windscreen wipers and flashing indicators are standard.
The van is sold in this country at £782 13s. 6d., including purchase tax.
[A road-test report of the Multi* was published in The Commercial Motor on January 4, 19571
The Fiat Multipla rearengined van is now available in Britain. The wide side door and rear flap make for easy loading.