Off-the-shelf 7.5 and 18 tonne box vans come into fashion

Largely in anticipation of EU whole vehicle type approval (WVTA) requirements, due to come into force progressively from 2009, truck manufacturers are looking to supply selected chassis models in ready-bodied form. Though light CV makers like Ford and LDV have, spasmodically, over the years, offered box-vans, dropsides and even tippers for immediate delivery from dealers, the principle is relatively new at higher weights.

Volvo set the trend last year with its FL 12 to 18 tonne launch. And at the NEC show similar announcements came from DAF, on its big-selling 7.5 to 18 tonne LF range, and Scania on its P Series 18-tonner. Both are initially offering factory installed box-van bodywork. The bodies are necessarily of the simplest configuration, in one or two standard lengths and one standard height, intended to meet a wide range of operator needs, using one-piece GRP panels within an extruded aluminium perimeter frame.

In DAF’s case the bodies will be assembled on the newly built chassis in a nearby shop at the plant in Leyland, using panels from Polyfont, extrusions from Alcoa, roof panels from Hatcher and a Whiting rear shutter – with an optional Ratcliff tail-lift.

Both manufacturers expect such standardised, relatively low-cost, bodies to appeal to rental companies while also being acceptable to others needing new vehicles urgently. As to their acceptibility in the wider market, where many buyers are used to specifying exact body dimensions and customised features like side doors, there must be reservations, though Scania and DAF both say the ‘red tape’ and paperwork delays involved in future WVTA procedures are likely to force operators to re-examine their whims on body specification.