Chassis-cab Maxus at last from LDV

Since production of its Pilot and Convoy ended last year, LDV has been badly handicapped in the light commercial vehicle market by its lack of a chassis-cab model in its new-generation Maxus range. New investment from the Russian GAZ group which now controls LDV has enabled that to be put right with the introduction at the NEC Show of a 3.5 tonnes gvw Maxus chassis-cab, able to compete directly with equivalent front-wheel drive models from Renault/Vauxhall/Nissan and Peugeot/Citroën/Fiat as well as with rear-drive Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter and VW Crafter models.

The Maxus chassis-cab, which will also be sold in ready-bodied dropside or tipper form, retains the now familiar contours of the Maxus panel van as far back as the B-pillars, but with a new rear cab wall pressing.

Other new Maxus variants unveiled on the LDV stand in Birmingham based on the established panel van body shell include further minibus models. There are now 12, 15 and 17 seat versions plus a 12 seat wheelchair accessible vehicle with an internal tail-lift. An extra high roof on the longer-wheelbase minibuses makes for additional passenger appeal.

With the move to Euro 4 emission law compliance, the Italian-made 2.5 litre VM turbo diesel used by LDV now boasts a higher-pressure (1600bar) Bosch common-rail fuel system, enabling it to be offered in Maxus models in a more powerful, 135hp, form. The former 95hp rated engine has also been upgrade to deliver 105hp.