VW capitalises on demand for home deliveries with Crafter van conversion

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has launched a new delivery van conversion for its Crafter model as it looks to meet the growing demand for home deliveries in 2021.

According to Mintel, the courier and delivery market is forecasted to grow by 23 per cent year-on-year from 2020, with companies recruiting new drivers and investing in larger fleets to fulfil the rising number of online shopping orders, a trend accelerated by COVID-19.

The Crafter parcel delivery van features racking on both sides with foldaway shelves to give drivers day-to-day flexibility for whatever they are delivering. Six telescopic load poles mean both smaller packages and larger parcels can be secured and protected as required throughout the cargo area.

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The manufacturer has teamed up with Bri-Stor Systems to equip the conversion with a walk-through bulkhead with roller shutter door, so drivers do not have to stand with the side or rear door wide open in rain searching for a parcel. This also has the added benefit of increased security with load doors open for less time.

Security is further increased with the availability of auto-locking technology. This automatically locks all doors after a set period to give drivers peace of mind when completing deliveries away from their van.

Volkswagen has clearly focused its efforts on adaptability and versatility to help delivery drivers maximise the van's 3.45-metre and 9.9m3 load area.

Nick Axtell, Specialist Sales Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: "We recognise the importance of home delivery as a critical service to many people and industries, and that a standard panel van doesn't always fit the bill. Our aim, along with our recognised partner Bri-Stor Systems, was to develop a versatile and adaptable vehicle that maximised the load bay for delivery drivers."

Priced from £5,600 (excluding VAT), the Crafter is available to order from Van Centres now with all outlets complying with the latest government advice on COVID-19.

If you're considering investing in a new van, don't forget to visit www.thevaninsurer.co.uk to find out how we can find you the most competitive quote for your van insurance.