Volkswagen launches ‘off the shelf’ conversions for van users

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is once again demonstrating its commitment to van buyers by launching a number of ‘off the shelf’ conversions for its Crafter range. Rather than having to purchase a vehicle and then find a converter, buyers can now take delivery of the right van for the job direct from a UK Van Centre, safe in the knowledge that the vehicle and conversion are of the highest quality and covered by a three year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

To do this, Volkswagen has teamed up with two well-known converters – Boalloy and Ingimex – who are able to provide conversions for dropside, tipper and Luton vans. The recommended retail prices for these fully-converted Crafters are shown in the UK price list, again giving confidence to buyers who can see they are being charged a single transparent price with no unexpected extras. Marketed under the ‘Engineered to go’ strapline, the conversions once again strengthen the range of services available from all 67 of the UK’s dedicated Van Centres.

The conversions are currently available on the Crafter CR35 body with chassis or double cab (chassis cab only on Luton), and with a choice of power outputs from 88 to 163 PS from Volkswagen’s renowned 2.5-litre TDI engine. A Shiftmatic option is also available on the mid-range 109 PS unit, offering operators improved fuel economy, reduced wear and tear and a more relaxed driving experience.

Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Robert Hazelwood, commented: ‘As part of our commitment to be ‘Serious about vans’ we are dedicated to identifying the needs of commercial vehicle operators and providing them with the service they expect and deserve from the UK’s number one CV importer.

‘Conversions which are available ‘off the shelf’, of a high quality, covered by warranty and competitively priced are clearly products which operators need, and we’re glad to be expanding into this market.’

As well as offering tipper, dropside and Luton bodies in the price list, Volkswagen has also introduced an accredited converter programme for more bespoke applications. To become accredited, suppliers must comply with commercial and technical requirements, including passing an FTA (Freight Transport Association) inspection.

At present, around 20 converters are accredited, including well-known names such as Mellor, Bott and Cold Consortium and with applications ranging from refrigeration through police and ambulance equipment to minibus. This number is likely to increase to around 30 when appropriate partners have been through the process. Marketed under the ‘Engineered for you’ strapline, although these products can not be bought ‘off the shelf’, Volkswagen’s accreditation means buyers can purchase with confidence and maintain all relevant vehicle and conversion warranties.

For more information, visit your local Van Centre, call 0800 717131 or log-on to volkswagen-vans.co.uk.