Welcome to the Landscaper

From the lightest vans to the heaviest trucks and buses, ‘green’ thinking was, inevitably, one of the main themes of just about every manufacturer’s display at the Hanover Commercial Vehicle Show.

“We face the question of how we can meet the growing demand for transport services while at the same time lowering emissions,” said Wilfried Porth, head of vans at Daimler. The company’s solution is a cross-brand initiative called ‘Shaping Future Transportation’, featuring hybrid vehicles, including a plug-in hybrid Sprinter van, and a high-efficiency concept diesel van, the Vito BlueEfficiency.

This features an economical six-speed transmission, stop-start function, and a comprehensive package of aerodynamic improvements, which means it uses 1.5 litres less fuel per 100km than a standard Vito, while cutting 40g/km off the vehicle’s CO2 emissions.

Volkswagen is also incorporating its fuel-efficient diesels into its van range. The Crafter BlueMotion Studie is a 3.5-tonne van with VW’s latest Euro 5-compliant diesel engines, giving fuel economy of 31.04mpg. This uses an SCR catalyst with AdBlue technology to make significant reductions in NOx emissions.

Nissan is also working on improving fuel economy of its vans. “We’ll be launching two mass-market hybrid light commercial vehicles by 2012,” said Andy Palmer, Nissan’s Corporate vice-president of marketing, LCV business unit.

A hybrid version of the Cabstar light truck was unveiled at the show, which offers a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel economy compared to a conventional diesel equivalent. The hybrid system has been developed in collaboration with transmission specialist ZF. “It is designed for urban areas where stop-start driving is the norm,” said Palmer.

This issue features the second part of our feature looking at the many different vehicle options available right now – it’s a good time to buy.

You can read how IOG Scotsturf exhibitors felt that the trade show in Edinburgh was successful attracting customers and interest.

This months front cover

The hard-working dropside conversion builds on Vauxhall Vivaro’s efficient performance with a host of useful and practical innovations. The totally flat 5.6 sq.m load platform, complete with lightweight dropsides and tailboard, features load lashing eyes and an anti-slip resin finish.
The steel headboard and rear window mesh provide additional passenger
protection . with a crossbar gantry and ladder stops to
secure long loads. At 2860mm deep, the almost full-length lockable rear box is perfect for keeping long items like ladders safer and more secure in transit. And lockable under-load floor storage
compartments on both sides of the vehicle provide a total of 921 litres of easily accessible and secure loadspace, ideal for carrying tools and equipment out of sight and away from the elements.