Land Rover Defender

The updated version of the iconic 4×4 Land Rover Defender now comes with a brand new EU5 2.2-litre-litre diesel engine for the 2012 model (out in November),which now replaces the outgoing EU4 2.4-litre diesel. This new engine, although smaller in capacity, produces the same power as the outgoing engine as well as reduced CO2 emissions.

The top speed has been raised from 82mph to 90mph (where permitted) and CO2 emissions are now 266g/km for the 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130 models. In addition, following customer feedback, Land Rover now offers a plain black Pick-Up hood as an option, while a plain beige hood will be introduced for the 110 Double Cab Pick Up, as well tinted glass on all 2012 models.

There are two new comfort option packs on offer as follows;

• Comfort pack - In this you get air conditioning, CD player with aux input, electric windows and remote central locking.
• Off-Road Pack - This pack adds ABS, heavy duty rim and MTR tyre, tow ball and under-ride protection bar.

The Defender’s off-road ability is legendary and inside seat trims include durable all-vinyl and cloth specifications with a half-leather option included in the XS specification model (available on Station Wagon and 110 Double Cab Pick-Up derivatives). The chassis frame is available in three different wheelbases with a total of 14 seperate body styles, from pick-ups and soft tops to crew cabs and stations wagons, all of which can be produced from the main production line.

All the new enhancements will only encourage loyal customers to opt for the new model and we should have Land Rover contract hire on the new models loaded shortly.

EcoDaily Electric van

Iveco has launched a new EcoDaily Electric van and chassis cab in the UK and Ireland which now combines the robustness of its popular commercial vehicle, with a model that has zero tailpipe emissions. They will now offer a 3.5 tonne single rear wheel (Daily 35S) and 5.2 tonne twin rear wheel (Daily 50C) model in van or chassis cab, with special applications (crew cab, MPV etc) available on request.

This electric van is ideally suited to short distance journeys and door-to-door deliveries in an urban environment and of course qualifies for a 100 per cent discount on the London Congestion Charge. Depending on how many batteries you have fitted, the range varies from 55 miles to 80 miles and each vehicle has their speed limited to 45mph.

All-new Movano

Vauxhall is launching their all-new Movano commercial van range offering 29 vehicle body type variations to choose from, front or rear-wheel drive, plus new power trains for lower commercial vehicle operating costs.

The modular platform has been jointly designed with Renault and depending on your payload category, you can also choose rear wheel drive variants with twin wheels. The full range of vehicles will include panel van, doublecab and Combi versions, chassis cabs with standard or crew cab, platform cab, three wheelbases, four lengths and three roof heights. The new Movano will be an excellent base for any conversions and the van will be available ex-works as a tipper, dropside and box van too.

Cabin comfort and safety is high on the agenda, with areas like improved driver visibility, multi-adjustable seats seats (in various configurations) and an adjustable steering column all on offer. The cargo area offers load lengths extending to 4.4 metres and a load capacity upto 17 cubic metres (L4H3 version).

Under the bonnet the van is powered by new generation 2.3-litre CDTi-four-cylinder common-rail diesel engines with three power outputs available (100PS,125PS and 150PS) all linked to a six-speed gearbox as standard. The 125PS and 150PS versions can also be coupled to the semi-auto Techshift. 

Movano cabin interior

ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) is standard on all models while ESP (electronic stability program) is also standard on all rear-wheel drive vans and optional for front-wheel drive. Other safety features include front airbags, side airbags integrated in the seats (optional) and seat-belt pretensioners.

The new Movano range launch phase will be staggered according to the body variants and first vehicles will be available in May 2010.