As operators cut costs, many are looking to light commercial vehicles as a way forward – with medium van chassis, smaller chassis cabs, as well as car derived and integral light vans all seeing increased uptake.

So with panel vans and specialist van conversions alike now part of transport managers’ drive for efficiency, the focus is on OEMs, body builders and van conversion companies to deliver more flexible, yet purpose-built and high performing LCVs.

But it’s not just about higher-capacity, ultra-efficient, modular LCVs. Light vans and medium vans are also being challenged to meet increasingly stringent emissions limits and to improve on fuel economy. Further, owner-drivers are demanding more and better equipment – from air conditioning to satnav units and automatic transmissions.

As fleet managers and engineers contend with the changes, Transport Engineer’s online focus on vans and LCVs will keep you informed.