PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2024 36 Vans & Racking


Modifying the van could hike premiums


Insurance premiums have been going up for all drivers in the UK, regardless of what kind of vehicle they use, but van drivers are being affected by additional factors they may not be aware of, according to the experts at Lease Van. Their main message is that


insurance providers must be made aware of any modifications done to vans, as any changes could increase premiums. For example, changing


steel wheels into alloys can be beneficial by reducing the weight of the van, but insurance costs may increase because of wheel modification. Van drivers who have


specialised equipment inside, for personal or commercial use,


should also ensure providers are aware of the installations. Tinted windows may increase


security levels by deterring criminals, but are classed as a modification so could also be the reason insurance costs rise. Tim Alcock from Lease Van


says: “Van drivers should be aware of the modifications they’re making to their vehicles, which could mean insurance prices are actually increasing. Even


if the changes seem minor and beneficial to your van, such as changing the steel wheel to alloys, insurance providers must be made aware of any modifications. “It’s important to weigh up the


potential increased cost of your insurance compared to the cost of any modifications. “Adding or removing seats and


storage is another modification that could increase premiums, and van drivers installing roof racks


Making the choice of medium or compact


The 2024 Proace is Toyota’s latest medium-duty van. It features a new frontal design while maintaining practicality and efficiency. Customers can choose between medium or long body lengths, a Crew Cab with extra seats, or a Platform Cab for specialised body types. The Proace is equipped with a 2.0-liter diesel


Charge point deal backs electric van ownership


EV charging software company Rightcharge has joined forces with Mercedes-Benz Vans to help make it more affordable and accessible for businesses looking to operate and charge electric vehicles. Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Vans


and facilitated by Rightcharge, buyers of electric vehicles can benefit from contributions towards the costs of a charge point and the installations. Current offers include £1,000 for customers purchasing a Mercedes-Benz eCitan via an authorised Mercedes-Benz Van dealer. Rightcharge provides electric van


drivers with an end-to-end solution for charge point installations, for a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Drivers can choose from a selection of charge points, access competitive prices from a network of vetted and monitored installers, and pay for their installation all in one place.


Rightcharge CEO Charlie Cook says: “We are thrilled to collaborate with a brand that is as loved and respected as Mercedes- Benz as we work closely together to simplify the transition to electric vans. Businesses and van drivers can now find the perfect charge point for their needs in just a few clicks. We’re excited to further develop this relationship and create a more sustainable future for Britain.” Sarah Palfreyman, sales director


of Mercedes-Benz Vans, adds: “This partnership further cements our commitment to supporting the UK’s van community in transitioning to electric. We know that infrastructure is a vital part of EV ownership, so we’re pleased to partner with Rightcharge to provide a solution that will keep our customers moving efficiently and sustainably.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/424/55


engine, offering outputs of 142bhp or 174bhp, depending on the model. The powertrain options include a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. With a maximum load volume of 6.6m2


, payload capacity of up to 1,400kg, and towing


capacity of 2,500kg, the Proace provides excellent load-carrying capabilities. It also offers advanced safety features and various equipment levels,


including multimedia touchscreen, navigation, automatic headlights, and more. For a compact van choice, Toyota offers the Proace


City which has versatile load-carrying qualities in medium or long body lengths and a one-tonne payload. It is equipped with a 1.5-liter diesel engine, available in 101bhp or 129bhp versions, and offers manual or automatic transmission options. The Proace City also features Toyota’s Smart Cargo system, for extended load length and increased interior capacity. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/424/54


How to find your ideal van configuration


Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has introduced a new vehicle locator tool on its website that aims to make it easier for customers to find the ideal vehicle during the digital buying process. Over 80% of van purchases begin online, with customers typically visiting the VW website to compare vans and deals two months before making a purchase. The new feature


enables buyers to seamlessly explore the latest VW Centre stock nationwide, providing a convenient and efficient way to find the perfect vehicle. This includes, being


able to browse vehicles in stock – search by location, model,


powertrain preference, colour, trim levels and other desired features, and the tool will find the vehicles in stock that best match the customer’s search terms. It is also possible to compare vehicles based on


the user’s vehicle configuration – for users who are configuring a model on the website, the tool will show similar stock vehicles and give the user a percentage score that indicates how close a match the vehicle in stock is to their original configuration. Alternatively, the tool will


signpost the user to the Van Centre with the vehicle that most closely matches their original configuration. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/424/56


should let providers know of the changes due to costs potentially rising.” Here are the five van


modifications which could be increasing insurance:


1. Alloy wheels Alloy wheels can be a benefit to van drivers, as the weight of the vehicle can be reduced as the wheels are stronger compared to typical steel wheels. However, any changes to wheels may be a reason for insurance bills increasing.


2. Tinted windows


Some van drivers may want to tint windows to prevent criminals from looking inside the vehicle. Tinted windows are classed as a modification so must be declared to your insurance company. Make sure any changes to windows are legal and let enough light through.


3. Specialised equipment Adding new features for tools or installing specialist equipment into your van could mean the insurance premiums go up. Equipment such as refrigeration,


dog grooming, jet washing or catering equipment must all be declared to the provider.


4. Adding or removing seats and storage Any changes to the interior of your van must be reported to the insurance company as it could affect premiums. Some providers may actually lower insurance costs if racking is installed - it may be seen as safer since heavy tools and equipment is stored away safely.


5. Roof racks Installing roof racks to use as efficient storage, especially when carrying large and awkward shaped items, is useful for van drivers. It is important to ensure your provider is aware of the roof racks as the insurance could go up. Lease Van urges van drivers to


consider whether modifications are worth the potential price rise in insurance. The key message is that insurers must always be informed about any changes made to a vehicle, be they aesthetic upgrades or functional additions. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/424/53


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