The lifestyle 4×4 pick-up market in the UK has bucked the generally weakening trend for new LCV registrations over the past couple of years. Demand has been strong, particularly for models with a high level of trim, prompted undoubtedly by some taxation advantages, but also by changing consumer tastes which are being recognised and exploited…
Read moreAnything but chilled… Background Ever since they supplied the converted Toyota Hi-Lux pick-ups for the trip to the North Pole by the BBC’s Top Gear show, Icelandic firm Arctic Trucks have gained a huge reputation for producing true, go anywhere vehicles. The first mainstream manufacturer to see a potential market for this type of…
Read moreTechnology comes to the white van man… Background Compared to other categories of light commercial vehicle, the 3.5 tonne GVW sector is probably the least sexy and most utilitarian. These are serious load luggers, be it on parcel deliveries, as a mobile service vehicle, or a double cab tipper working on construction projects. Workhorses,…
Read moreThe market leader gets a makeover… Background Since it was launched in 2012 the Transit Custom has been a firm favourite with drivers and fleet operators. Its reputation for comfort and practicality together with excellent residual values and running costs has made it regularly top the sales charts in the UK for all LCV’s,…
Read moreA class above? Background The market for ‘lifestyle’ 4×4 pick-ups in the UK has boomed in recent years, and indeed although new LCV registrations have fallen lately, this sector bucked the trend and continued to grow. Seeing an opportunity, manufacturers who have previously not been a contender have introduced their own offerings, often a ‘rebadged’…
Read moreA smooth operator… Background The relatively new ‘big’ Ford Transit (as opposed to its smaller sibling, the Transit Custom), codenamed V363, is a familiar sight on our roads having been launched back in late 2013. A firm favourite with fleets and small businesses alike, it has continued to keep its main competitors, the Mercedes-Benz…
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