Volkswagen crafts a new Workhorse
They appear as though they've been plucked from a sci-fi movie, but this futuristic looking van and cab-chassis are part of a new line-up that replaces Volkswagen's strong-selling LT series workhorse.VW says the new light-commercial range - dubbed Crafter - completes the renewal of the entire brand's LCV arsenal. The overhaul began with the March 2004 launch of the new Transporter, followed later that year by the new Caddy.
The Crafter will be offered with four versions of Volkswagen's five-cylinder TDI engine - pumping out 65kW, 80kW, 100kW and 121kW respectively. The new engine is equipped with common rail fuel injection and a diesel particulate filter, all of which are said to contribute to durability, low fuel consumption and low emissions.
The Crafter is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard - an automatic transmission, also with six speeds, will be optional. VW claims ‘optimised' suspension gives the vehicle good cornering stability, and for additional safety, the Crafter is fitted with ESP and ABS as standard. A driver's airbag is also standard, while front passenger, curtain and side airbags are available as options.
A dash-mounted gearlever is claimed to offer increased comfort, in addition to liberating more cabin space.
A choice of three wheelbases, four load compartment lengths and three roof heights reportedly enhance the versatility of the new model. The Crafter has a maximum load capacity of 17 cubic metres and the five-tonne panel van can haul a payload of approximately 2670kg.
VW says there is ample width inside the vehicle for two pallets to stand next to each other. In vehicles with the medium or long wheelbase, a sliding door reveals a loading aperture 1.3m in width and 1.8m in height, allowing pallets to be loaded easily. An optional transport safety system can be used to restrain loads.
The Crafter has been designed to be visually more striking than its predecessor. "Strong lines, vertical clear glass headlights and robust side protection strips characterise the modern design, giving the Crafter a distinctive appearance," boasts VW.
A VW Australia spokesman says the Crafter is expected here towards the end of next year, or in early 2007. Oz buyers will be able to select from a range of body styles, payloads and engine choices.
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