Volkswagen Crafter targeting aftermarket
All-new large van and cab chassis range will comprise nearly 70 distinct variants, including many for customisationVolkswagen's new Crafter promises improved efficiency and enhanced driver comfort, in a modular package ready for work or play.
According to the manufacturer the commercial vehicle range will total 69 derivatives, split between three different drivetrain configurations (front, rear and all-wheel drive), three wheelbases, three heights and single, dual-cab and van body styles.
And the Euro 6 engines powering the new Crafter range are reportedly more efficient and reliable than before, also offering a choice of manual or automatic transmission. Based on the Modular Diesel Platform architecture, the 2.0I TDI engine is codenamed "EA 288 Nutz" ('Nutz' being German for 'Commercial'), as we reported in July. Three states of tune will be on offer: 75kW, 103kW or 130kW in BiTurbo TDI guise.
The new Crafter, which shares no engineering with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter this time around, will feature a completely new chassis, developed from the ground up as a practical base for after-market bodies as diverse as motorhomes and tippers. Driver comfort is enhanced through ergonomic design and newly-adopted electromechanical steering, with the Crafter also embracing new driver-assist systems.
High-GVM (gross vehicle mass) models are in the works for the Crafter range, which will vary in length between 5986 mm and 6836 mm or, for the panel van, 7391 mm as well. Roof height measures 2355 mm, 2590 mm or, for the panel van, 2798 mm.
Dr Eckhard Scholz, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, says that customer feedback was critical to the development of the new Crafter.
"The development of the new Crafter was a unique opportunity to avoid all compromises while drawing upon our decades of experience in the market segment. The new Crafter represents a fusion of product focus and customer focus. In other words, we developed this vehicle from the customer's perspective."
Volkswagen dealers in global markets will commence taking orders for the new Crafter range in November. As yet, there's no word on a start date for Australia.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
