PHAM NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2024 42 Vans &Racking


Crafter gets a technology and design boost


The Volkswagen Crafter has received a range of upgrades, focusing on driver assistance, connectivity, and interior design. The new model boasts a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including front assist, lane assist, and speed limiter, for safety and ease of use. Connectivity is improved with


Heavy duty van for those who need a workhorse


The Proace Max is a new heavy- duty van that marks Toyota’s entry into this market segment. It off ers a comprehensive range of features, including both diesel and battery electric powertrains. The Proace Max is available in four size combinations, with load capacities ranging from 11.5 to 17 cubic meters. The electric version boasts a 260-


mile range and a powerful 200kW motor. It can be charged to 80% in 55 minutes using a 150kW fast charger. The driver can select from three modes to adjust performance to optimise driving range or power. Further energy effi ciency is provided by a regenerative braking system. All versions are equipped with an on-board 11kWh AC charger for business or home charging. The diesel engine option is a 2.2-


litre 140 unit producing a maximum 138bhp (103kW/140 DIN hp). Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission can be


What not to keep in the van when it’s hot


Installers across the country are being warned about equipment safety in hot weather. Motoring experts at Lease Van are urging them to be cautious of what they leave in their work vans when temperatures rise. With internal van temperatures


reaching as high as 50°C in sunny weather, the experts are urging caution about what is being left in vehicles. These are the items Lease Van says tradespeople should never leave in the heat: Aerosol cans left in hot


temperatures can expand and explode. Plumbers should be aware of common products like pipe- freezing sprays and WD40. Batteries and battery operated


tools must be removed from a van during hot spells, because heat can damage the battery and cause them leak onto tools, or ignite and explode under extreme temperatures. Chemical products like paint


and solvents are fl ammable and if left in a hot vehicle could become a potential fi re hazard. In extremely high temperatures, they can also release toxic fumes which are


harmful to be inhaled, as well as damaging the product, which will need to be thrown away and replaced. Electrical equipment, from


power drills and circuit testers to saws. Leaving tools with an electrical component in a hot vehicle can damage major components and increase the risks of short circuits and fi res. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/924/65


specifi ed, giving maximum torque of 350Nm and 280Nm respectively. Gross vehicle weight for all diesel versions is 3.5 tonnes; GVW is 4.25 tonnes for the electric models, which qualify for government funded grant support towards the purchase cost. At launch there is a single


equipment grade, Icon, off ering an array of features for practicality, safety, comfort and connectivity. Key items include a multimedia system with 10-inch touchscreen and navigation and a digital instrument cluster. Automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights with automatic high beam, a reversing camera and rear parking sensors are also provided. Owners can adapt their vehicle


to suit specifi c business needs with a dedicated range of accessories, including racking and shelving systems, high-security locks and a roof platform with rear ladder. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/924/62


a new 10.4-inch infotainment system featuring App-Connect, an integrated eSIM, and wireless smartphone charging. The optional Discover Media navigation system off ers a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen.


The interior features a refreshed


dashboard with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a redesigned steering wheel. The electronic handbrake and gearbox controls have been relocated for improved ergonomics. The Crafter is available in


Commerce and Commerce Plus trims, off ering a variety of body styles, drivetrain options, and engine choices. Standard features include a touchscreen radio, Digital Cockpit, and driver assistance systems. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/924/63


Express range for fast racking delivery


With a focus on fast lead times and simplifi ed ordering, Rhino products has launched the MR4 Express range. The collection represents a curated selection of the company’s MR4 van racking portfolio, including shelving, aluminium- fronted drawers, and a range of accessories. All the components are pre- packaged in fl at-packs, ready to be shipped the same day they are ordered. Rhino has made


signifi cant investments in its stockholding capabilities to achieve what it calls ‘industry- beating lead times’. Each confi guration in


the Express Range has a single part code, making it easy to visualise and order the desired racking and accessories. The range comes with vehicle-specifi c fi tting kits, ensuring effi cient and optimised utilisation of space in the van. The fl at- packed boxes and detailed fi tting instructions allow for quick and easy installation. For customers with more


specifi c requirements, Rhino also off ers more complex confi gurations and accessory combinations outside the Express Range, providing a tailored solution. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/924/64


Get secured by design


In light of the ongoing problem of tool theft, WaterSafe, the national register of approved plumbers, is advising tradespeople to implement Secured by Design (SBD) security measures to deter thieves and protect their valuable equipment. SBD, the official police security initiative, provides guidance on a range of security measures, including van security, tool marking, and tracking systems. By following SBD recommendations, tradespeople can reduce the risk of tool theft, make stolen items harder to sell, and increase the chances of recovering them if they are stolen. Doug Skins, development


officer at Secured by Design, comments: “The theft of tools continues to be a high-volume crime, attractive to professional gangs and opportunist thieves


alike. The impact of thefts like these is not just limited to the cost of replacing the stolen items, as very often the victim cannot work until the tools are replaced, thus suffering even more financial loss and causing considerable disruption to business operations and delays and inconvenience to customers. “Secured by Design (SBD) has


many member companies that specialise in vehicle security to protect both vans and tools. These products range from wheel-clamps and steering wheel locks and internally anchored security boxes through to security marking and forensic coding systems, key fobs and signalling blockers, tool safe vaults, and tracking systems. By layering security with SBD- approved products, you can reduce the chances of falling victim to tool theft.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/924/66


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