Revolutionary Luton body set for Iconic truck status 30 March 2011

Bevan Group has launched a Luton body for 3.5-tonne vehicles that offers a market-leading payload of more than 1,200kg and improved fuel economy.

Dubbed the Icon, it will debut at the CV Show, on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis cab.

Bevan Group managing director Anthony Bevan explains the new Luton is aimed at the home delivery market. He also says it has been developed with aerodynamic experts so that the new body incorporates cutting-edge technology designed to increase productivity and reduce operating costs and environmental impact.

"The Icon's impressive carrying capacity of more than 1,200kg puts it comfortably ahead of other recently launched products," declares Bevan. "This will certainly be a big attraction to operators keen to squeeze as many deliveries from their vehicles as possible."

Interestingly, the modular body design was created by specialists employing 3D CFD (computational fluid dynamics) technology, able to simulate genuine road conditions, and then honed in a wind tunnel using a full-scale model.

Its body panels are manufactured from a lightweight and recyclable composite GRP material, with assembly at Bevan's production facility in Halesowen, West Midlands.

The body incorporates a rear frame that allows for the fitment of conventional hinged rear doors or lightweight shutters. Also, a wind diffuser can be fitted at the back of the vehicle to further improve aerodynamic efficiency.

Other options allow for the installation of load restraints, reversing cameras and Restfall 'working at height' safety equipment.

In addition to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Icon is already compatible with VW's Crafter and Bevan says it will be adapted for other vehicle models, including the Ford Transit.

Author
John Challen

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