Car market nowadays tightly segmentedtherefore, it is difficult to name a niche that would have strict boundaries. Vans can be considered as one of the most vague classes, as the representatives of this category differ both in technical characteristics and purpose, and can also be used in solving narrowly specialized tasks. Anyway, it is a multifunctional, practical and in many aspects a universal car, the need for which arises both from commercial transport companies and from an ordinary private trader who has decided to go into business. To the van-car did not disappoint during the operation, you should initially determine the requirements for it.
Main characteristics of vans
Even light trucks require a considerable margin.power for confident transportation performance. As a rule, models of this type are supplied with gasoline units with an average capacity of from 90 to 150 liters. with. Diesel installations are used less frequently - the class of full-fledged trucks already begins with them. Also in more modern designs, designers use the 4Motion all-wheel drive system. The next important feature that the van has is its payload. Immediately it should be noted that in passenger vans an analogue of this indicator is the number of seats, for example, 8 or 12. As for cargo models, their average carrying capacity is 1200-3000 kg. But there are elongated modifications that are capable of handling cargo up to 4500 kg.
Varieties
The most common type ismanufactured goods van, which allows you to transport furniture, appliances, building materials, household chemicals, etc. With such a machine you can carry everything that fits in it, and, most importantly, it does not require special conditions of detention. The opposite of this option can be called a van-refrigerator, which is designed to transport perishable products. In such cars special chambers for a freezing and refrigerating compartments are provided.
There is another classification - by type.constructional execution. For example, models with a solid body, which also represents a single design with a van, are considered the most reliable. An alternative approach involves the use of an independent box, that is, a separate van is installed on a truck by means of mounting on a frame chassis.
Features of family vans
The models described above are mainly used incommercial purposes, however, the family version of the van is also common. It has much in common with generalists, but still surpasses them in capacity and carrying capacity. Initially, back in the early 1990s, the creators of such cars reworked cars, supplementing them with individual boxes. The first family van in the modern presentation appeared in 1996 - it was the Peugeot Partner, which was distinguished by both the qualities of a truck and the comfort of an ordinary station wagon. Then came the more technologically advanced models: the Opel Combo and Doblo from the Italian manufacturer Fiat. If we talk about the general differences between such machines, it will be: an economical engine, a tall body, a compact rear suspension and the presence of sliding side doors.
Popular Models
Not the first year one of the best representativessmall vans considered Ford Transit. The manufacturer regularly updates the model, complementing it with new equipment and modifications. The advantages of this version of the owners include reliability, ease of operation and good ergonomics. The competition for the American van is the Mercedes Sprinter. Although these models are similar in size, arrangement of internal space and carrying capacity, noticeable differences are expressed in the power stuffing. Motor line of Mercedes looks more solid in terms of power - which is only worth the V6 unit with a return of 190 liters. with. If we turn to domestic models, then the GAZ-van will take the first place, on which, depending on the modification, it is possible to transport both cargo and passengers. For example, the relatively new model "Sable 4 x 4" shows good all-road performance. The car has a high elemental resource base and is “sharpened” for operation in Russian conditions.
Owner reviews on vans
Most reviews of models of this classpositive. Especially European manufacturers carefully approach the design of vans, taking into account the requirements of owners of such vehicles. Appreciate vans for versatility, endurance, capacity and payload. For example, the same Ford Transit has earned the trust of drivers due to its ability to transport cargo over long distances, while at the same time requiring minimal maintenance. And on the contrary, a passenger van in the performance of “Lada-Largus” is not so productive and reliable, but in solving simple tasks of transportation within the city can be more efficient. It is cheaper, not so convenient, but more economical to use. Also, the owners recommend to take into account the possibilities for transformation of the van. Modern manufacturers provide for the possibility of structural changes in case of retraining a car. True, the cost of such versions is quite high against the standard representatives of the segment.
Conclusion
Such machines occupy an average niche betweenpassenger cars and trucks. From the first, the caravan differs by its modest dynamics, less comfortable interior and driving characteristics. If we compare this type of transport with trucks, then the situation will be reversed - in terms of speed and control, the advantage remains with the vans, but the full-scale truck will perform the immediate transportation functions. Occupying an intermediate position, this car combines the advantages of a completely different cars. This is what explains the functionality, practicality, as well as the relative comfort of a modern van.
