Thinking about exploring a unique alternative workspace that suits your work-from-home model? With the workspace increasingly becoming dynamic, flexibility, convenience, and mobility are an integral part of professional success. Converting your van into a mobile office is a fantastic idea that’ll give you the comfort and freedom to take your workspace anywhere with you.

A mobile workspace empowers you with on-the-go productivity, sought after by many. And an office van renovation makes the perfect sense to help you achieve just what you need. Swiss Vans understands the increasing need to not just go remote, but also mobile. With our office van conversion, you could be enjoying the breeze in the remote countryside while still able to work. In this post, we’ll show you how to achieve that.

What Do You Need For An Office Van Renovation?

To most people, conversion simply means creating a living space inside a cargo van. Well, here’s another conversion that can make your work-life balance even more exciting. When it comes to office van conversion, it entails making slightly different changes to make your van more suitable for work.

Create more windows

Your home office typically is set in a well-lit room with plenty of natural light and fresh air coming in. That is, at least, if it’s a standard office setup that isn’t a studio for photo or video shooting. To replicate a similar appeal as your home office, your mobile van office needs windows at the back and on both sides.

When it’s airier and more well-lit, it creates a natural glamour that makes it feel like a real home office rather than just another van on the move.

Walls Insulation

Just like a camper van has insulation, the same goes for your van office. Insulating the walls shields you from the temperature fluctuations and noise that might make it unconducive for work. Plus, it also lets you create a more appealing look while removing the ordinary van interior look.

Electrical System

 

Any workspace needs a wall outlet to plug in your office equipment and devices. For this, you’ll need a powerful battery system and solar panels to tap the energy from Mother Nature. This not only provides a sustainable energy source but also ensures that you don’t rely on your van’s battery for powering your office equipment.

Since you’ll have a separate battery, you’ll also need an inverter for DC to AC conversion for use with your devices.

Lighting

Even though your van is well-lit from the brilliance of natural light, you’ll still need your own lighting. This lets you keep your workspace illuminated even when there isn’t enough sunshine. Choose LED lights since they’re brighter and conserve energy better than ordinary lights.

Install ambient lighting to make your van office’s atmosphere comfy and inviting. Task lighting is essential for illuminating specific areas, such as your desk.

Heating and Cooling System

You’ll need a workspace that you can use all year long during different seasons. For that, an efficient heating and cooling system is essential to keep the temperature more accommodating.

Communication Systems

Even when away from home, you’ll need to be connected to the outside world via the internet. Equip your van office with a Wi-Fi router and signal boosters to stay seamlessly connected. This allows you to join meetings with your colleagues or clients and stay up to date with your email inbox while chilling in the wild.

Workspace Design and Furniture

Now, this is where the real work is. You need to create a workspace design that mimics a real office to cultivate the work mood even when you don’t feel like it. Plan the design layout well so you can also use it for other purposes when not working.

Install functional furniture fixated on the walls for safety and convenience. Make the desk, seats, and storage cabinets classy, just like your home office. Ensure the seat is ergonomic for long work hours. If possible, consider going for a multipurpose seat that can double as a bed. This will mean that your desk should be foldable to create a bit more space.

 

You don’t need to worry about the nitty-gritty of your workspace design; Swiss Vans has experienced van conversion experts to do this for you.

Camper van In a Mobile Office – Is it Feasible?

When we talk about an office van renovation, you’re probably thinking about what makes it so different from a camper van conversion. Why not just convert your van into a camper and work in it as you move? The difference is that a van office is specifically built for work, right from the workspace design and layout, to functionality and more.

But that doesn’t mean that you can’t have the two integrated into one. It’s very possible to have a camper van that also serves as a mobile office. It only takes proper design planning and execution.

With this setup, you can have it as an office during the week, a sanctuary that supports your hustle. On weekends, you can go on an adventure with the van as your bedroom on wheels. And as winter kicks in, simply park the van at a nature spot, turn on the heating and work on your project quietly as you sip a hot cup of coffee.

The Fiscal Side of Your Van Office Renovations

We’ve talked about how cool a van office is, but one undeniable fact is that it’s going to cost you money. So, how much will it cost? Working with experienced van conversion experts from Swiss Vans, you don’t have to break the bank.

Swiss Vans conversions come in all types of budgets to handcraft beautiful van offices that meet your requirements. Depending on what you’d like to be included in the van office, we can help you secure a custom quotation from our van conversion experts.

Choosing the Right Van for Your Van Office Conversion Project

 

What are some of the best vans to consider for your mobile van office conversion? Considering the various sizes of vans can help you get a rough idea of what van to choose for the conversion. While other factors such as fuel consumption matter, what matters the most is the size of the van. Generally, vans are categorised according to two factors; wheelbase and height.

Long Wheelbase (LWB): Large-sized Vans

If you want a two-in-one setup comprising a mobile office and a camper, the long-wheelbase vans make the best base vehicle. They offer plenty of space to accommodate your office and other customizations needed by a camper. You also get more freedom to organize the interior space how you love it.

Under the large-sized vans, we have the straight-sided and angle-sided bodies. The vans with straight-sided bodies are boxier but with a little shorter wheelbase. The walls provide plenty of usable space, which you’ll find useful in your mobile office. Some of the best examples of these vans you might want to consider include the Citroën Jumper, Fiat Ducato, Ram Promaster, and Peugeot Boxer.

You’re probably familiar with long-wheelbase vans with angle-sided bodies. Their walls are tapered, reducing the internal width by a small margin. Examples of angle-sided body vans include the Man TGE, Volkswagen Crafter, and Mercedes Sprinter.

Things to Consider Before Starting Your Conversion Project

Keep the overall weight under 3.5 tonnes

If planning to convert a long-wheelbase van into a mobile office or even a camper, take note of the total weight of the conversion. It shouldn’t go beyond 3.5 tonnes because these vans carry more weight at the base already. Also, it would mean that you’ll need to upgrade the van to be able to support the additional weight.

You’ll have to upgrade the vehicle’s components such as the suspension to support the gross vehicle mass (GVM). These changes can bring more expenses to your van office conversion project.

You may need to upgrade your driving licence

Adding more could make it much heavier, and that would mean changing your driving licence. You may need to go for additional driving lessons and test drive a 7.5-tonne truck. This is especially important if your conversion will be above the 3.5-tonne limit.

However, Swiss Vans still recommends going for the lessons even if you won’t exceed this weight limit. It’ll prepare you to handle a heavier and larger van than you’re used to.

Find a longer parking space

 

Driving a long-wheelbase van also means you’ll need to deal with the issue of parking. If you’ll be based in urban areas most of the time, you need to find longer parking spaces. But this shouldn’t be an issue because owning a mobile van office has more pros than cons.

To deal with the parking issue, you may install parking sensors to guide you when needed.

Find a van with advanced safety features

Also consider going for a van that has advanced safety features, such as a blind spot detection system. Long-wheelbase vans tend to have blind spots that are difficult to monitor. But with a detection system and rearview camera, it should be easy to drive the van.

Bespoke Van Office Conversion By Swiss Vans

When it comes to your van office conversion, it’s crucial that it’s done by experts, right from the design to completion. Before the actual work commences, have the conversion company present 3D drawings of the design. This helps you picture the proposed design and justify the quotation you’re given.

Surprisingly, Swiss Vans, a company that offers some of the best-selling vans across the UK, also has a network of office van conversion experts. When you finally decide to kickstart your project, you can find affordable van finance and be able to convert the van into a mobile office, all in one point.

The 21^st century can be rightly defined as the era of technological revolution. No industry is immune to the transformative wave, including the automotive sector. Modern tech has made our vehicles safer, more efficient, and environment-friendly.

However, when we talk about the latest tech in the automobile industry, it is common to assume it’s associated with private vehicles, like sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs. But vans have quietly become a hotbed for innovation. The latest van technologies have transformed transportation, be it their commercial use or recreational travel.

In this post, we’ll take a brief look at some of the most innovative van technologies and how Swiss Vans helps consumers get their hands on everything latest in van tech.

Tech Marvels on Wheels- The Top 7 Van Technologies

1.  Connected Vans

If you’re a business owner with a fleet of vans or planning to invest in one soon, connected vans technology is something you should watch out for. These vehicles use advanced sensors and communication systems to collect real-time data on various aspects of performance, including fuel consumption, engine health, tire pressure, and even driver behavior.

All the data is transmitted to a centralized system in real-time, offering fleet managers valuable insights into the operational dynamics of their fleet. This technology is a game-changer for businesses that rely on vans for their day-to-day operations as it provides them with a comprehensive understanding of their operations, paving the path for a more sustainable and efficient future.

2.  Lane Keeping Assist

We’ve all been in situations where a slight concentration lapse has led us to drift off the course. The lane-keeping assist feature is precisely designed to avoid this scenario which could sometimes lead to severe outcomes. The systems are equipped with sensors or cameras that constantly monitor the van’s position with regard to the lane.

Any kind of unintentional departure from the lane triggers a warning signal, either in the form of an audible alert or a visual signal on the dashboard. In some of the advanced vans, the lane-keeping assist system can also intervene and steer the vehicle back into the lane if the driver is not responding to the warning signals.

3.  Traffic Sign Recognition

 

When you’re cruising through the highway in your van, it is not uncommon to miss a traffic sign. But now there’s a new van tech to avoid this from happening. A traffic sign recognition system is made up of cameras, generally installed at the front of the vehicle, that continuously capture images of the road ahead.

These captured images are processed in real-time using advanced algorithms to identify and recognize various traffic signs, like speed limit signs, stop signs, no entry signs, etc. Once such a sign is detected, the same is displayed on the dashboard or the instrument cluster so that the driver can take the necessary action.

4.  Blind Spot Assist

Experienced van drivers would agree that rear and side visibility in vans is not as great as in cars. Moreover, the rear window is generally missing so there’s no rearview mirror or side windows at the rear for a quick glance through. Thus, the risk of a vehicle being in a blind spot is pretty high.

But thanks to the advancements in radar technology, we now have a solution for this serious problem. Modern vans are equipped with something known as blind spot assist that can sense such blind spot risks and alert the driver, usually through a visual prompt in bright LEDs that is very hard to ignore.

5.  The Electric Revolution

The electric revolution in the automotive industry has paved the path for a new era of sustainable transportation. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are gaining widespread popularity across the world and van manufacturers have emerged as pivotal players. Brands like Ford, Volkswagen, Renault, Citroen, Mercedes, and others have already introduced a range of electric vans and we’ll see many more in the coming years.

By replacing the traditional fuel-powered combustion engine with electric powertrains, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. With the world struggling with the severe consequences of climate change, switching to electric vans is a smart move for businesses to future-proof their operations and create a more sustainable future.

6.  In-Car Entertainment and Connectivity

 

Gone are the days when vans were merely used for transportation. Modern vans are multifunctional and instantly convert into mobile entertainment hubs. For instance, you now have vans with advanced in-car entertainment systems, smart device integration, and high-speed connectivity.

The high-definition displays, versatile multimedia options, and premium sound systems in some vans are such that they could easily compete with those found in luxury cars. From music and interactive games to movies and web series, the passengers can enjoy a variety of entertainment. All of these features make modern vans a seamless blend of productivity, connectivity, and leisure.

7.  Vans or Mobile Offices?

People who are always on the move, like construction contractors, electricians, plumbers, and technicians can effortlessly turn their vans into mobile offices. Thanks to the advanced connectivity features now found in some of the vans, you can effortlessly create a dynamic workspace on wheels to stay productive on the move.

Features like high-speed internet connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspots, ergonomic seating, charging ports, ambient controls, and noise control make the vans an extension of the modern workspace. People can take advantage of these features to always stay connected, collaborate, and stay productive even while zipping through the highways or waiting at a work site.

8.  360-Degree Camera Systems

Navigating larger vans in tighter spaces is a skill you can only master with time. Until then, you can rely on the 360-degree camera systems now found in various van models. These systems offer a bird’s eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings through a series of cameras strategically placed around the van.

Together, these cameras create a composite image to help drivers navigate through narrow spaces, park, and avoid obstacles. Even in dense traffic conditions, the 360-degree camera system can offer a quick view of the entire surroundings, helping drivers merge lanes, navigate through the traffic, and make informed decisions. This can not only reduce stress associated with complex traffic scenarios but also save valuable time.

9.  Collision Avoidance Systems

 

Another technological marvel in the automotive industry is the Collision Avoidance System (CAS). As the name suggests, it is a crash prevention safety system that uses an array of cameras, radar, and lidar to continuously scan the surroundings of the van to detect the presence of other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles.

As the van moves through the road, the CAS analyzes the speed, trajectory, and proximity of the surrounding objects in real-time to identify potential collision risks. If such risks are detected, the system activates auditory and visual alerts to inform the same to the driver so that corrective actions can be taken to avoid a collision. In cases where human response might not be adequate, some of these systems can also intervene to prevent the collision.

10.  Voice Command Integration

We now use a variety of voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, Google Now, and Cortana for a host of our everyday tasks. Why not do the same when driving a van? Some vans now come with voice command integration to offer drivers a hands-free approach to controlling various functions of their vehicles.

These systems can be used to initiate calls, answer incoming calls, send messages, input destinations, adjust navigation, and manage the infotainment system. Apart from adding a layer of convenience to the driving experience, the feature also contributes to improved safety by minimizing distractions and allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road.

Swiss Vans Offering Easy Access to Hi-Tech Vans

Headquartered in Bridgend, South Wales, Swiss Vans is a leading car and van seller with over 30 years of industry experience. Over the years, the company has established strong connections with leading vehicle manufacturers and suppliers to provide customers with easy access to the latest models with advanced technologies and features.

Swiss Vans offers a wide range of vans, including Pickups, Luton Vans, Small Vans, Electric Vans, Crew Vans, Large Vans, etc., from all the leading manufacturers, like Volkswagen, Ford, Mercedes Bens, Land Rover, Iveco, Renault, and many more. Moreover, the company also offers custom vans with a host of upgrades to ensure the vehicle perfectly suits your professional or personal requirements.

Supercharge Your Fleet with the Future of Mobility

Van manufacturers are leveraging the latest technological advancements to redefine the driving experience, enhance safety standards, optimize operational efficiency, and usher in a new era of connected and sustainable transportation. Businesses looking to build a hi-tech fleet of vans can watch out for the features discussed in this post to boost their operations and elevate their competitiveness.

If you’re confused about where to begin, the experts at Swiss Vans can help. Discuss your requirements with us and we can help you find the perfect van at the best prices. We also offer 1-12 months vehicle rental services at competitive rates, providing flexible and cost-effective solutions tailored to meet your short-term or extended transportation needs.

Every business, whether a retail outlet, repair service, or distributor, needs a mode of transport to help fulfil customers’ wishes. Vans are the most capable type of vehicle you could choose for your business. Considering its efficiency, van acquisition has become a necessity for most UK businesses. The vehicle’s popularity in the UK skyrocketed to a whopping 4.1 million, with the Ford Transit Custom as the preferred choice as of 2019.

So, if you’re in the process of acquiring a van for your business, how do you choose the best one?  The options range from compact MPVs such as the Mazda 5, to expansive types such as the Chevrolet Express. The fact that the market is flooded with so many vans make, models, and sizes makes it daunting to make a decision.  This comprehensive guide will break it down for you and make it easier to pick the right van that suits your business needs.

How Expensive Can a Van for Business Be?

It’s typical for anyone to start with affordability before considering other factors. It’s therefore appropriate if we tackled this bull by the horns first, then we’ll proceed to other key considerations. How much are you willing to spend on your business van? Besides that, you’ll also need to consider the insurance costs as well as the vehicle running expenses.

If you think your business will benefit the most from a large van such as Iveco Daily or VW Crafter, just know that your fuel expenses will be higher. And in that case, you’ll need to chip in deeper into your pocket for insurance. On the other hand, a small van may cost less to acquire and maintain, but you’ll have to deal with limited capacity and lower payload.

You don’t need to worry though even if your desired van is out of your budget; you could still acquire it through several options. There’s no need to unveil one from the dealership if you can’t afford it. Commonly used van acquisition options are van lease and contract hire. These are similar to renting out a space for business. This is where you pay an initial deposit followed by monthly payments for using the van. The difference comes in that with a van lease, you get the option to own the van at the end of the lease but with contract hire, the lessor takes back the van. Check out more about these van financing options here.

 

What To Consider When Buying A Business Van

Finding the right business van that will not only serve you longer but also keep your running costs low takes a lot of time. Some of the considerations you might look into during your search include the van payload, load capacity, daily usage, and nature of your journey. Let’s break down each of these points for you.

How will you use the van?

Almost every type of business needs a van. The types of uses that come to mind first are activities such as construction, transporting work tools, and retail outlet deliveries. However, there are plenty of other ways you could use a van. Such as a school or home care van, caged transport for vets, or even equipment transport for event planners.

If you run a small startup and want a fuel-efficient van, your choice should revolve around MPVs like Mazda 5 and Ford C-Max. these vans offer excellent fuel efficiency that will come in handy in lowering your running costs and insurance.

For those with bigger van requirements and an MPV won’t do, a minivan can be a suitable option. Minivans have a better combination of seating capacity, cargo space, and value. Options worth your while in this category are Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. In case your business needs a full-size passenger van, you could go for larger options with a capacity of up to 15 passengers. Chevrolet Express makes a suitable choice.

Sometimes your business may need a larger van with more cargo space. The options worth looking at in this category include the Ford Transit Connect, Chevrolet Express, or Dodge Grand Caravan. They all have different sizes, but a common factor is that they’re bigger and more suitable cargo vans.

Payload capacity

This is the manufacturer’s directive on the highest amount of weight the van can carry. If your business involves transporting a heavy load, you might want to consider a van with a bigger payload. Payload limits are not only stated for safety but also to ensure that your van has a longer service life. That’s why exceeding the payload attracts hefty fines from the government.

 

The least you could pay for exceeding the payload is £100 and it could go up to £300 if you breach it by 15% or higher. If the payload goes beyond 30%, it could attract a court summon. It’s therefore crucial to think about the type of load you’ll be carrying with the van.

Go for a van with a larger payload if you plan on expanding your business soon. Alternatively, you can buy a smaller van and later on lease a bigger model to meet your growing needs.

Space capacity

After dealing with the issue of payload, the next issue on the table is the amount of space you need. Generally, small-capacity vans have lower payloads. So, if you carry a heavier but less bulky load, a small van may not serve the purpose well. On the other hand, if your load is bigger but lighter, going for a bigger van won’t hurt.

Van capacity is often in square meters or sometimes litres. But looking at these measurements might not shed a light on the actual capacity of the van. If the van’s load capacity isn’t clear, Swiss Vans recommends comparing several options from different manufacturers. Then match the different capacities to the size of your load to get a hint of how suitable a van’s space might be.

Wheelbase and height

These are often not considered by many people when looking for a business van, but they’re equally very important. The wheelbase is the distance between the van’s front and rear axle. It dictates the capacity and the length of a van. It also affects your ability to manoeuvre in traffic. Therefore, when selecting a van for business, consider the different wheelbases available; long, medium, and short.

If your business entails transporting items such as furniture, you may need a van with a larger height. For those carrying items like tools and equipment, a moderate-height van will do. So, it’s good to compare vans from different manufacturers if looking at similar types of vans.

Daily journey and terrain

 

Where will you most be driving your new business van? If the van will be used for transporting passengers over long distances, comfort should be a high priority. It pays to spare a few more pounds to get a van with comfier seats, radio, and air conditioning, among other features. Also, ensure the van conforms to the set safety standards for passenger transportation.

For a van that carries loads to work sites or agricultural sites, a van that can tough terrain will best serve the purpose. Also, if you drive over long distances, you might want to consider a diesel engine van to save on fuel. For vans driven for shorter distances in urban areas, petrol engines or even hybrid vans are more suitable.

Conversion and modifications

Are you going to make modifications to the van to suit your business operations? If that’s the case, consider the cost in your budget. It could be cheaper to go for a stripped-out van, and then DIY the modifications. That way, you could avoid spending more on an already modified van, which also, may not suit your specific requirements.

Types of Vans Suitable for Business

Now that we’ve looked at the key considerations to look at when looking for a business van, let’s look at the choices of van worth considering. Depending on the type of business you run, various types of vans can best suit your requirements:

Panel vans

These are often three-passenger vans that come with a huge loading bay. Panel vans usually don’t have side or rear windows. Some of the options include Mercedes-Benz Vito, Fiat Scudo, Peugeot Expert, and Toyota Proace.

Luton vans

These are spacious vans with longer wheelbases and are often panel-styled. Luton vans are also called box vans, and some good examples include Iveco Daily, Ford Transit, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Each of these vans comes with different dimensions, therefore check their specifications to match your needs.

Dropside vans

 

A dropside van is also called a tipper and features a flat bed making it easier to offload the contents from the back. They often have a capacity of two to three passengers.  Some of the examples include Peugeot Boxer, Vauxhall Movano, MAN TGE, and Citroen Relay L3.

Chassis cab vans

These resemble dropside vans, except that they have a flat platform to fit different types of loads. Chassis cab gives you an option of upfitting the chassis section to suit your business needs. these vans are commonly used for plumbing and HVAC deliveries, refrigeration services, moving companies and more.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Business Van

Choosing the right van for business requires you to do due diligence on your needs and the options available in the market. Apart from looking at features like payload, capacity, wheelbase, and the type of van, you should also consider additional features. Modern vans offer plenty of features such as cruise control, sat-nav, and air conditioning.

Additionally, features like internal ply lining, load restraints, roof rack and a tow bar can be very useful depending on your type of business. Assess your requirements and look for a van that accommodates features such as these before making your decision.

In years past you would never have associated innovative technology, luxury and comfort with an off-road vehicle, or “pick-up”. But such vehicles seem to push the boundaries with each new release nowadays. Before we discuss New VW Amarok Accessories in detail, it is always better to know what your Amarok is already provided with.

The all-new Amarok is a prime example, with new enhanced driver support systems, additional airbags, and comfort. It’s more equipped for off-road driving than ever before and is now available as a single- or double cab depending on the market. At 5.35 metres it’s also longer, with a roomier cabin (that seats three adults) thanks to a 17.3cm longer wheelbase. VW explains that its off-road ability is boosted as the wheelbase grows more than the car’s total length, body overhangs are diminished, and its slope angle is higher. Its shorter front and rear overhangs and a 30-centimetre longer fording depth also add to its off-road capability. The vehicle now has an 80cm/800mm fording depth (the depth of water it can safely pass through).

Off-road features aside, the Amarok is still known as a workhorse and as such, its ability to transport heavy loads has also been enhanced. It has a bigger payload, now at 1.2 tons, a 350kg roof load capacity, a 3.5 ton towing capacity and a loading area which allows for two euro pallets to be loaded and lashed with durable eyelets.

There are five engine varieties: three 2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engines (at 100kW and 154 kW); a 6-cylinder, 3-litre, turbocharged diesel engine (at 177 kW and 184 kW); and a 4-cylinder 2.3-litre turbo petrol engine (at 222kW). Amarok engines with more than 154kW of power come with 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. There are rear-wheel or selectable/permanent all-wheel drive settings.

Standard on the 2023 edition are LED headlights, a rear-view camera, electromechanical steering via a multifunctional steering wheel, USB ports, an electronic stabilisation program, infotainment with a 10.1-inch touch colour display + DAB; and driver, middle and passenger airbags, as well as curtain and side airbags. There are also new side steps, radiator grille and styling bars.

An intriguing spec is the new preconfigured driving modes assisting you in specific off-road conditions.

Trims include the base version (Amarok), the Life, Style, PanAmericana (enhanced off road capabilities) and Aventura (said to be a stylish on-road version).

Read more on the new VW Amarok here.

Official New VW Amarok Accessories

While it may seem that the new off-roader has everything, there’s always the opportunity to add new VW Amarok accessories, or give it a more unique look.

When ordering your new Amarok, engine, transmission, chassis, trim and body options are just the start of your choices.

Details are still thin ahead of its official launch, but these are the new VW Amarok accessories and options we know about from VW’s official release material:

• Cargo box roller covers (manually or electrically operated), including an electric load compartment rollcover system, to protect cargo 
• Manual or electric hardtops
• Various cargo management systems, including toolboxes that are lockable, and bike brackets
• Harman Kardon premium sound system (standard on PanAmericana and Aventura trims)
• For the base and Life trims, clients can choose between a 10-inch (standard) and 12-inch (standard on Style, PanAmericana and Aventura trims) infotainment systems display
• There are over 30 systems aiming to assist drivers in various off-road circumstances (more than 20 of these assistance systems are new to Amarok) and they are available on request. Examples include front assist: adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning; multi-collision brake; lane-, traffic jam- and light assist; area view camera; rear traffic alert; and blind spot monitoring.

There are various features standard on some trims and optional on others:

• While 16-inch tyres are standard for the Amarok, various alloy wheel sizes (17″/18″/20″) are optional, with all-terrain tyres available up to 18 inches. However, 21-inch tyres are optional on Amarok Aventura only
• The Amarok Aventura, PanAmericana and Style have IQ.Light LED matrix headlights and a digital cockpit with digital 12-inch instrument cluster – these are optional for the Amarok Life
• The Amarok PanAmericana and Aventura have LED taillights, are key-free and ambient lighting – these features are optional on the Amarok Style
• The Aventura and PanAmericana are equipped with an area view camera – which is optional for the Amarok Life and Amarok Style.

Once the Amarok is officially on the market we’ll update our valuable customers with more details specifically related to New VW Amarok Accessories.

Swiss Vans upgrades

If you’re looking to make your Amarok stand out from the crowd even more, Swiss Vans has a range of upgrade options and new VW Amarok accessories, including its WASP styling pack for a more sporty bodykit:

• 19 or 20-inch silver or black powder alloy wheels
• Tonneau covers with black styling bars
• Black powder-coated bumpers and side bars

Our typical standalone new VW Amarok accessories include:

• Styling or roll bars
• Tonneau covers and hardtops
• Plastic load-liners
• Fixed or removable towbars
• Witness cameras 
• Satellite tracking

Our alloys are sourced from brands including Assassin TRS, Aero, Aero Super-T, DTM, B+P Wraith, Wraith, TTRA-2 and KMC Holeshot. Our premium alloy brands include OZ Racing, Dotz, BBS, AEZ, Calibre and MOMO. 

If you’re not sure of what upgrades, additions or conversions are possible on the new Amarok (or even an older model), give us a call to talk it through.

Find the most suitable financing options

Rather than an immediate total payment, a Swiss Vans upgrade may also be made via finance repayments. As for getting your hands on the new Amarok itself, we offer several finance options. These include:

• Buying it cash: a good option for individuals
• Contract hire: a good option for businesses with large fleets 
• Finance lease: you wouldn’t own the vehicle at term-end, but it’s a popular option with low premiums.
• Lease purchase: an option if you want to keep the vehicle at term-end or you’re opting for a conversion. A better option for VAT-registered businesses.
• Hire purchase: a good option to buy the vehicle, with VAT deferred or reduced.

For now, we wait in anxious expectation for the new Amarok to hit our shores – potentially the first quarter in 2023 – and try out its famed off-road features ourselves. And call us any time to discuss the details of New VW Amarok Accessories.

Alternative is the Ford Ranger Lease

The world is anxiously awaiting the new VW Amarok, and you’d better believe one of its awesome new features will be distinctive alloys. Talk to any car buff or watch any new car review and the words “alloy wheels” or “mags” will definitely come up, with some going on in detail for hours about their styling new alloys. But petrolheads may be onto something here, because there are definite benefits to having alloy wheels. Before we discuss the new VW Amarok Alloy Wheels in more detail, let’s look at alloy wheels themselves and why drivers get excited about them.

What are alloy wheels exactly?

Originally designed for use on race cars, alloy wheels are making a big splash with more and more consumers. 

An alloy is a combination of at least one metal and other elements. Alloy wheels are also commonly known as mag wheels since they tend to be made from aluminium or magnesium, and another element (for example nickel). These metals are lightweight. 

The common, older and cheaper alternative is steel wheels. While steel is durable, it’s heavy. Steel wheels are also a type of alloy wheel, though are commonly referred to as simply Steel Wheels — they are typically made by combining iron and carbon. Steel wheels require little weights to be placed around the outer edge to keep the wheel balanced. 

Alloy wheels are made in a variety of ways which affects their cost, style, and durability. Since these wheels are fabricated differently, it contributes to the price and variety differences between steel wheels and alloy wheels. Steel wheels are normally pressed — giving little room for designs or patterns, without the need of poking holes in the metal or welding. Alloy wheels are forged or cast using various methods, including moulds, making them more expensive to make but able to style freely.    

Why opt for them if they don’t come standard with your new/modified car?

The aluminium or magnesium alloy wheels are lighter, thus putting less strain on a vehicle’s suspension, which assists in boosting its speed, performance, ride comfort, and even makes steering easier. It also reduces the vehicle’s weight, and a lighter car means it’ll use less fuel – a massive advantage in today’s age of soaring fuel prices and inflation.

The process of making alloy wheels usually means less need for weights to be added to the wheel to keep it from wobbling or becoming unbalanced. Therefore, there is less need for routine balancing and alignment — aside from at the time of installation.

Alloys are better for heat dissipation which, besides other benefits, means they assist in preventing brakes from overheating. Wear and tear is also reduced in several vehicle components. For example, tyres are said to last longer, due to less wear and tear.

Like alloy wheels of any other brand, VW Amarok Alloy Wheels are more corrosion and rust resistant than steel wheels, so will last longer in even the wettest climate.

Lastly, they look amazing, add style, and are available in a range of sizes, finishes, and colours.

However, they are not as durable as steel wheels, and they are pricier.

To sum it all up, choosing alloy wheels over steel wheels gives you the best chances of having a truck that will go anywhere and take to the wild with better efficiency and style.

Back to the Amarok.

Down to the trim

The VW team has redesigned the Amarok to have even better off-road capability. In addition, it’s longer and more spacious. The New Amarok has a longer wheelbase, a bigger payload and towing capacity, plus five engine options. The Amarok comes with many upgrades and extras, depending on your trim. 

Trims include the base version, as well as the Life, Style, PanAmericana, and Aventura.

Read more on the new VW Amarok.

When ordering your new Amarok, besides options on the engine, transmission, chassis, and more, you can select different alloy wheel sizes, depending on the trim you decide on. 

While 16-inch tyres are standard, 17-inch, 18-inch and 20-inch VW Amarok Alloy Wheels are optional. As an aside, all-terrain tyres are available up to 18 inches. 

Here are the trim-wheel specs:

• The base Amarok comes standard with 16-inch tyres 
• The Life trim has 17-inch VW Amarok Alloy Wheels
• The Style comes with 18-inch alloy wheels
• The PanAmericana – the ultimate off-road vehicle – has 18-inch light-alloy wheels exclusive to this trim, in all black, with all-terrain tyres.
• The premium trim Aventura combines off-road capability with on-road urban style. It has large 21-inch alloy wheels, optional on the Aventura only.

Why to choose bigger wheels and tyres?

A 21″ tyre may look stronger and cooler than a 16″ but bigger tyres do more than just make your truck look good. Bigger tyres change the amount of rubber, which means more surface area contact. It also means more clearance between the chassis and the ground. This allows you to have better braking distance, more precise control, and traction. Basically, a 21″ tyre will be able to drive through ice, mud, rain, and any off-road conditions way better than a 16″ tyre. These bigger rims can also carry more load weight. 

We’ll have more details on wheel options once the new Amarok hits our shores.

Get Hands on VW Amarok Alloy Wheels Today

If you’re looking to make your Amarok even more unique, Swiss Vans has a range of upgrade options, including 19- or 20-inch silver or black powder VW Amarok Alloy Wheels.

Our standard alloy wheels are sourced from brands including Assassin TRS, Aero, Aero Super-T, DTM, B+P Wraith, Wraith, TTRA-2 and KMC Holeshot, while our premium alloy brands include OZ Racing, Dotz, BBS, AEZ, Calibre, and MOMO. 

We can advise on the right wheels and sizes for your new Amarok. Give us a call.

Remember, a Swiss Vans upgrade may be made via finance repayments rather than an immediate payment in full.

The new VW Amarok is expected to be released in early 2023. Until it is, start thinking about your ideal look, or stop by to talk about placing a reservation on a build slot for your custom Amarok. 

The new VW Amarok Panamericana is set to be released in 2023, and we can’t wait! The brand new Amarok is bigger, more high-tech, and has a plethora of options to choose from. The Amarok was developed in partnership with the new Ford Ranger — sharing many of the same parts and design.

The Amarok is still just as easy to customise, with several different models and trim levels to choose from on this body-on-frame truck, you’re sure to find an Amarok to fit your custom company’s wants and needs. Today, we are going to talk about the VW Amarok Panamericana. This truck was built to take your business off-road to forge new paths. Plus, it looks just as beefy outside as the functionality allows it to be — making mud a trophy, rather than an obstacle. 

New VW Amarok Panamericana – Power choices for days

You are bound to find your power with the new Amarok PanAmericana. To start off your customisation, there are five motor options to choose from. The top of the line motor is a 3.0 litre V6 diesel with the option of 177 kW or 184 kW output and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. There is also the option between three four-cylinder 2.0 litre diesel motors that come with an automatic 6-speed manual gearbox. Though it’s not out yet, there are talks of an electric motor to come soon. 

Traction and control

The new VW Amarok has been upgraded and perfected to take your company to even the wettest, muddiest, roughest off-road locations. Prepare to show other vehicles up when you roll through puddles up to 800 mm deep — a major improvement from the previous forge depth of 500 mm. The options for this beefy truck don’t stop at motors and looks — choose from two different all-paw gripping systems.

There’s two 4motion setups to choose from, including a permanent 4×4 with a self-locking middle differential. The all-new wider wheelbase paired with all the other upgrades enhances the off-road capability. The new Amarok now boasts an increased distance between the axles to give the truck a bigger footing, and therefore more grip — even on an uneven slope. Complete with all-terrain tyres on 18” alloy wheels, this truck is rearing to climb the highest hills and traverse every puddle known to man — rain, snow, and ice beware. 

Technology and extras

Volkswagen went above and beyond with over 20 driver assist systems, which includes road sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, park assist, and more able to be accessed on the 12” tablet built into the dashboard. The driver assist technology in the Amarok was designed to work with the four-wheel drive systems to constantly monitor and stabilise to give you a smooth ride regardless of the conditions.

When you are in city driving mode, you can enjoy the comfort of intelligent speed and lane assist, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. The multifunctional steering wheel providing electromechanical steering is reminiscent of ones from others in the VW family. For the safety and security of your crew, load, Amarok PanAmericana, and yourself, there is a 360º camera installed. 

Towabilty

The upgrades just keep coming with the all-new VW Amarok Panamericana! VW has increased the payload to one-ton to give you the ability to carry so much more. The roof can even support an additional 350 kg to give more space. Perfect for overnight jobs, since it will support a four-person roof tent with ease.

If that still isn’t enough, all automatic transmission Amaroks can tow an additional 3.5 tons of supplies, tools, or whatever you may need. The versatile Amarok even thinks of the ease of loading, unloading and checking your load at night with LED lighting in the loading area. If you need more room for people in the cab, there are options to enlarge the single cab to a double cab with additional seating and extra leg space — an increase of 173mm more than before in the crew cab. 

Exterior

The exterior of the VW Amarok PanAmericana screams rugged with its many updates. Just one look tells you how powerful this truck really is. The PanAmericana comes in all black with exterior mirrors, door handles, and the rear bumper coming in accent colours of your choice. It even includes a powder-coated styling bar and steps in black. Making this truck look ready to tackle any off-road areas.

The body has gone through some upgrades as well. An upgrade to the headlights includes bi-xenon headlights with low or high beam illumination in each headlight, and LED light bands for daytime running lights. Even the taillights got an upgrade. In typical Volkswagen fashion, there are options galore, depending on the bodykits and parts you choose. 

Interior

The VW Amarok PanAmericana delivers the same quality to the interior as well. The all leather electronically adjustable seats that come with this trim also include a heating system. As a bonus, there is a Harman Kardon premium sound system with 8 speakers and a 12” touch screen infotainment system. All together, the inside was designed for luxury, functionality and comfort. To match the seats and interior, the dashboard even gets soft-touch faux leather. 

Custom options

There are several bodykits offered for the Amarok. You can customise this truck to be even wider, longer, and have more functionality. Custom tailgates, wheels and side steps to make your Amarok stand out even more. To add to your security and stowability you can have racks, drawers, organisers, or an electric cover for the bed.

The options for your VW Amarok PanAmericana are limitless. The Amarok’s traction and control coupled with the ability to make it look just as rugged, if not more so, will make you stand out even with a little dirt and mud.

Get your Amarok today

Here at Swiss Vans, we can help you drive away with one or a whole fleet of trucks today. Come in to talk about financing options. Purchase outright, or you can pay through lease to own, hire-purchase, or even rental. If you want to stand out, we can even help you in our bespoke customization department.

When you think of white vans, your first thought is Ford Transit. There’s a good reason for that, too. The Ford Transit family makes the most versatile van line there is. Need a great work van? Transit. Want an off-road worthy camper van that you can take anywhere? Ford Transit. We could discuss motors, transmissions, and extras for days, but we would go nowhere without tyres. They are the thing that keeps you rolling down the road, so why not make sure they are the best. Keep reading further to know how a set of Ford Transit Alloy Wheels will help your Transit Van stand out from the crowd.

Steel Wheels Vs. Ford Transit Alloy Wheels

Wheels are more than just a statement piece or necessity to make your van move. The type, style, and condition of your wheels play a huge role in what your van can do and where it can go. Which is better, steel or alloy? To determine this, first let’s explore how they are made. Alloy is made mostly from a combination of aluminium and magnesium. They are lighter than steel wheels, providing better fuel efficiency, easier braking, more rust resistance, and longer life. Regardless of the way it sounds, steel wheels are also an alloy wheel. They are made with a combination of iron and carbon. Steel wheels are heavier and not as easy to mould into the fancy styles.

So many different styles

When most people think of wheels, they think only of material and size — 16” or 17” alloy. There is much more to think about when getting new wheels. Your wheels are actually a lot like shoes for your feet — many sizes, styles, materials, brands, and types. The different styles are based on the amount of spokes the wheel has. The style depends on how the wheel is cast. For an edgy look, you can choose the claw spoke wheel. Some spoke styles have intricate patterns, while others are simple and traditional. The choice of style depends solely on how you want the Ford Transit Alloy Wheels to look.

Winter wear

With winter upon us, it is time to get your van fitted with its winter tyres. Winter tyres have special tread and more rubber content to keep the tyres softer, which allows your vehicle to grip the road better. Your winter tyres will enable you to stop easier and not slip as much when the roads get wet and icy. Having summer tyres can work in any condition, but the value you have in stopping, grip and safety with winter tyres is incomparable. If you choose not to buy a second set of tyres to have on for the season only, you do have other options. You can purchase snow socks or chains to put over your Ford Transit Alloy Wheels to improve grip.

Off-road or all terrain tyres?

Another good tyre to have is off-road tyres. These are designed to hold a better grip, no matter where the path takes you. These tyres have a stronger body to give more support and prevent the risks of damage to the body of your van. Off-road tyres are perfect for muddy or uneven roads, camping, and going on adventures. If you plan to drive off-road a lot, investing in these tyres will prove valuable to you. For the driver who spends only half the time off-road, a good set of all terrain tyres are your best bet. All terrain tyres are designed with certain technologies and tread to provide better traction on or off-road. The tread pattern on all terrain tyres offers an advanced shoulder for gravel, icy, sandy, muddy, or uneven roads.

Know your size

The size of your wheel is an important thing to know, since not every wheel size will fit your van. When getting new wheels, you need to pay attention to the nut pattern and the size, so you can ensure they fit properly. Wheel sizes range from 12 inches to 24 inches and 5 inches to 10 inches in diameter. The most common size of wheel for Ford Transit vans is 16, 17 or 18 inches. The measuring of the wheel’s diameter includes only the wheel, not the tyre. The next measurement is the width. This determines what tyres can fit the van. A wider wheel fits a wider tyre — giving more tyre contacting the road and more of a grip. One of the most important measurements for your wheel is the centre bore. If the centre bore is different from the van’s, your tyres will not fit. Another vital measurement is the PCD or Pitch Circle Diameter. This refers to the number of bolts and the diameter through the middle of the wheel and bolts. A 5×104 PCD equals 5 bolts with a 104 mm diameter. If you get the PCD measurement wrong on your wheel, you will not be able to fit the wheel to your van, or you will need a wheel hub adaptor. You will also need to keep your load rating in mind when selecting wheels. To better fit your tyres for the safety of yourself and your van, ensure the wheels are van rated. Knowing the size of your wheel is one of the most important things you should know about your van.

Keeping them clean and new

With all the driving you may do on a normal basis, your wheels can become rather dirty. If keeping them clean and looking new at all times is important to you, then read on. There are special cleaning solutions available for Ford Transit Alloy Wheels. This is a high-quality cleanser made special for your wheels, not the rest of your van. If you do use the same soap as you would the rest of your van, you risk leaving traces of the dirt that may be baked-on or the brake dust that builds up. Simply apply the cleaner, let it sit as directed, and use a brush or wet sponge to scrub the dirt away. Then use a pressure washer to rinse the Ford Transit Alloy Wheels — getting even more dirt and grime off them. Finish this off with a speciality wheel wax to prevent build-up of brake dust and dirt — leaving a nice shine.

Buy your van today

Here at Swiss Vans, we got everything you need to drive off the lot in your new or used Ford Van, equipped with your own special set of Ford Transit Alloy Wheels. We also have all the financing options to fit any budget. Come in today to rent or purchase a van. Need a whole fleet? Try our lease or contracted purchase options.