New Vauxhall Movano Set to Shake Up Large Van Segment in a Big Way
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LUTON, UNITED KINGDOM – March 18, 2010: The second incarnation of the Vauxhall Movano brings a breath of fresh air to the light commercial vehicle market in the UK, combining innovative technologies with strong functionality and economy.
The launch of the new Movano also heralds the start of an ambitious drive by Vauxhall to strengthen its commercial vehicle offering. The company is escalating its activities in an area where it has an impressive tradition and proven expertise, with plans to double annual sales volume of Movano in the UK.
Design, interior ergonomics, model variety
The new Movano has
a powerful and distinctive front end design. Vauxhall trademark elements
like the horizontal chrome bar - housing the largest Vauxhall Griffin on
any vehicle in the company’s history - and the signature crease on
the front hood, mark the new Movano as a clear brand representative.
Special attention has been paid to the interior design of the cab. The result is a cabin that is 5.7 centimetres longer than that of the outgoing model and boasts high quality, durable materials and surfaces, excellent all around visibility and a host of practical storage compartments. It also features multi-adjustable seats and a height-adjustable steering column ensuring every driver can achieve a comfortable driving position.
The new Vauxhall Movano provides one of the widest ranges of body variants on the commercial vehicle market, offering a model for every potential customer. The range includes panel vans (available in four vehicle lengths and three roof heights), doublecab, platform, chassis and crew cabs as well as combi versions. Vehicles are also well-equipped for special conversions or enhancements, and some key versions – like dropside and tipper – will be available ex-works.
Four different vehicle lengths are available that extend to more than four meters of load length and a higher load volume, with 17 cubic meters in the longest L4 version. This latest generation also includes rear-wheel drive variants, available with both single and twin rear wheels, which gives Movano a gross vehicle weight range of up to 4.5 tonnes.
Flexible platform with front and rear-wheel drive
For the
first time, the new Movano offers rear-wheel drive versions in addition to
front-wheel drive, thanks to its modular platform. The RWD variants give
added traction and increased towing capability. Twin rear wheels are
available in panel van, chassis and crew cab formats. Twin rear wheels are
standard on 4.5 tonne gross vehicle weight models and optional for 3.5
tonne FWD models.
Best values in load area dimensions and cargo capacity
The
cargo areas of the panel van variants offer among the best in class
accessibility, loading ease, standing height and cargo capacity, with load
volume of up to 17 cubic meters and a maximum load area length of up to 4.4
meters. Gross vehicle weight extends up to 4.5 tonnes and maximum payload
up to 2.5 tonnes depending on body variant. New Movano is also an excellent
towing vehicle, able to tow up to 3.0 tonnes. Maximum gross train weight is
now 7.5 tonnes.
Ergonomics and functionality also play a vital role in the world of commercial vehicles. FWD models feature low loading sill heights for easy access to the cargo area, while sliding side and rear wing doors with generous apertures offer maximum loading and unloading convenience. Rear doors have a standard opening aperture of 180 degrees, while a 270 degree version is optional.
The standard sliding side load door offers a maximum width of 1270 mm, (1050mm on L1 versions)enabling Euro pallets to be loaded sideways, and a maximum height of 1780 mm. A wide rear door aperture of 1577 mm and a maximum height of up to 1820 mm along with increased load-through width between wheel arches of 1380 mm ease loading, while straight body sides ensure space efficiency.
New generation of CDTi engines
A new family of four cylinder
common-rail diesel engines (2.3 CDTi) provide low fuel consumption and
emissions. The engines are available with three power outputs - 74 kW/100
PS, 92 kW/125 PS and 107 kW/146 PS. With an optional 105 litre fuel tank,
the operating range is nearly 875 miles.
Despite a lower engine capacity than the outgoing model, the 2.3 CDTi will deliver higher levels of torque across the rev range (including at lower revs), emit less CO2 and give greater mpg. A chain-driven valve train will keep maintenance costs down.
All variants come with six-speed manual transmission. The automated Tecshift transmission is available as an option on the 125 PS and 146 PS engines. All three engines meet Euro 4 emissions standards but can be ordered with a diesel particulate filter to meet Euro 5.
An additional, particularly economic variant with low CO2 emissions will be added to the range in the second half of 2010.
Bigger space but smaller operating costs
Vauxhall’s new
large van challenger is expected to have among the most competitive
operating costs thanks to its long service life and excellent residual
value projections. Provisional RV figures for the new Movano from industry
guides have already confirmed a substantial uplift.
Movano has been engineered for exemplary durability with particular attention having been paid to the brake and clutch components. In addition an oil change is not required before 25,000 miles ( or once a year) while the coolant is good for 100,000 miles. Total service life of the new Movano is 250,000 miles. Maintenance and wear and tear costs alone are 24 percent lower than its predecessor.
Fuel consumption is of course a critical part of any van’s overall running costs; new Movano’s consumption starts at 35.3mpg for the 3.5t L2H2 100PS version with 211 g/km CO2.
Movano chassis: agile and safe
The new Movano’s advanced
chassis has been set up to combine agile handling with a comfortable ride,
while fully loaded or when empty.
Safety is taken care of with ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) as standard on all models. The electronic stability program ESP is also standard in all rear-wheel drive models, and available as an option with front-wheel drive versions.
‘Passive’ safety features include a driver’s airbag, and three-point safety belts with belt tensioner and belt force limiter. A passenger airbag, seat-integrated side airbags and headlamps with cornering light are all available as options.
Vauxhall’s credentials in the UK CV market
Aside from a
long history of producing commercial vehicles for the UK market, dating
back to 1931 when the first vehicle bearing the Bedford name appeared, and
including such successful vehicles as the HA and CF vans, Vauxhall has in
more recent years become an important centre of manufacturing in the UK,
out of its GM manufacturing plants in Luton and at Ellesmere Port in
Cheshire.
GM’s state of the art plant in Luton builds the highly successful Vivaro van for all European markets, with over 600,000 variants having rolled off the production line since 2002. Further north, Vauxhall’s rejuvenated Ellesmere Port plant in Cheshire is known as Home of the Astra, and has been building the current Astravan variant since 2006.
“The commercial vehicle market is of great strategic importance to us,” says Duncan Aldred, Managing Director Vauxhall Motors. “The rejuvenation of our product offer in this important commercial vehicle segment clearly reflects our ambitions to grow in this area and to strengthen our market position. This also includes focused improvement and reinforcement of our sales and dealer network.
“The new Movano plays a key role in our sales plans for 2010. We believe that with its combination of a wide selection of variants and low operating and maintenance costs, the new Movano has what it takes to establish itself at the top of the light commercial vehicle segment”, he said.
Movano launch offer will be hard to resist
With a starting
price of just £20,250*, the Movano Expression entry level model goes on
sale in May, featuring a host of standard kit – such as electric
windows and mirrors, and a full bulkhead – which would have
previously set buyers back a further £485.
For canny customers however, the deals get even better. To celebrate the launch Vauxhall has created a special ‘launch pack’ which includes £1,400 worth of options such as air conditioning, a multi-function trip computer, vehicle alarm and Bluetooth connectivity. The Launch Pack will be offered free on all new Movanos, apart from the Expression model, until July 31 this year.
Variety, space, functionality: Movano has it all in
abundance
The look of the new Movano is characterised by a powerful
and distinctive front that showcases the typical elements of
Vauxhall’s design style. Typical brand elements are featured such as
the trapezoidal-shaped grille, horizontal chrome bar, signature crease on
the front bonnet and of course the unmissable Vauxhall Griffin which sits
proudly in the centre.
The Movano’s balanced proportions in profile showcase the vehicle’s solidity and quality in terms of function, look and feel, with sculpted wheel arches, distinctive protective side moulding and bold ergonomic door handles. Bumpers and rear lights, too, are wrapped around the side of the body, adding to the harmonious look while also offering additional protection to the body.
An obvious advantage of the new Movano range is the selection of body variants, offering a model to meet every customer need, a range which embraces panel vans in four vehicle lengths and three roof heights, doublecab vans, platform, chassis and crew cabs as well as combi versions: customers can choose from more than 300 Movano variants!
Modular platforms
New Movano’s modular platform
configuration enables designs that are optimised for weight class with
front or rear-wheel drive. With certain panel van and chassis cab versions,
the customer can choose between the two transmission layouts, whereby RWD
enables higher payload and towing load capacity.
The modular platform also allows a range of vehicles to be converted for tailor-made usage; dropside, tipper, double cab, box van and 16-seat bus versions, for example, will be available ex works.
Class leading cargo capacity
The cargo areas of the various
models offer best in class accessibility, loading ease, roof height and
cargo capacity in the light commercial vehicle segment.
The new Movano can be specified in three wheelbases from 3.18 to 4.33 meters, four exterior lengths from 5.05 to 6.85 meters that allow for cargo load lengths on floor from 2.58 to 4.38 meters. There are also three interior roof heights from 1.7 to 2.14 meters, while load volume ranges from 8.0 to 17 cubic meters. Gross vehicle weight ranges from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes, with maximum payload to 3.0 tonnes, depending on body.
The new Movano is also an excellent vehicle for towing. Depending on the variant, towed weight can reach up to 2.5 t (FWD and RWD versions with single rear wheels) or 3.0 t (RWD with dual rear wheels).
But it’s not just about space - ergonomics and functionality have come under the spotlight in the new Movano's development. Designed to have maximum practicality in everyday use, new Movano features low loading sill heights (from 0.56 meters on FWD and 0.71 meters on RWD) and a step at the back of RWD models to allow easy access to the cargo area.
New Movano’s sliding side doors are 17 cm wider than those of the predecessor, with a sliding side door on passenger side being a standard feature while a second sliding door on the driver’s side is optional. All apertures are designed for maximum loading and unloading comfort, with no overlapping sections or protruding sections that might hinder loading. Rear doors have a standard opening aperture of 180 degree, while the 270 degree version is optional.
The standard sliding side load door offers a maximum width of 1270 mm, enabling Euro pallets to be loaded sideways, and a maximum height of 1780 mm. A wide rear door aperture of 1580 mm and a maximum height of up to 1820 mm along with increased load-through width between wheel arches of 1380 mm ease loading, while Movano’s straight body sides ensure maximum space efficiency.
Movano drivers will be some of the happiest on the road
With
drivers and crews spending most of their working day with their van, a
major aspect of development of the new Movano focused on creating the most
comfortable and efficient cab interior possible.
Perception is also important and so the latest durable materials and surfaces are used, which are pleasing to eye as they are to the touch.
Designed to make the driver’s life as easy and comfortable as possible, the new Movano has easy cab entry, generous interior height and a driver’s seat with six-way adjustment including height, backrest inclination and longitudinal travel, as well as a folding armrest on the interior side. The seat cushions and backs are large and supportive, with body-friendly contours to ensure even the longest journeys are comfortable. An air-suspended seat is also available as an option.
Because the Movano cabin is 5.7 centimetres longer than its predecessor, there is additional space for longitudinal seat travel. The contoured cabin bulkhead with a recess in the upper area is designed to allow full use of the seat adjustment space without infringing too much on the load area length.
For passengers, a twin bench seat which can accommodate two adults is standard. A new feature is the centre dump-latch seat that folds down to provide a flat working surface as well as two cup holders and a storage tray.
Once the driver is comfortable in his or her seat, they will find that the position of the pedals, steering wheel, adjustable steering column tilt and gearshift on the instrument panel all contribute to relaxed driving position and an unobstructed corridor between the driver and passenger sides.
Of course with such a large van, good visibility is crucial and Movano has this, with its ‘panorama’ view from the driver’s seat aided by large horizontal and vertical visibility areas. The sloping side-door window line improves visibility when manoeuvring and adds to the spacious interior feeling by letting in more light. Large exterior mirrors with integrated indicators and blind-spot mirrors ensure good visibility to the rear and sides.
Plenty of storage space
As you would expect, the new Movano
offers a plethora of storage bins and compartments.
These include a large, 7.6 litre glove box, practical storage compartments, trays and fixtures located in the doors, instrument panel, ceiling area and under the seats. Together, they provide easy reach storage of typical work items such as A4-sized folders, lunchboxes, drink bottles (up to 2 litres). Thermos flasks, CDs, mobile phones and work boots.
For customers requiring that little bit more however, they have the option of the Office Pack to provide the ultimate mobile office environment. As well as offering additional storage, the centre dump-latch seat features a swivelling tray that can be rotated 30 degrees, making it easy to use a notebook computer or a document. The tray includes a cup holder and integrated storage compartment. A retractable clipboard in the middle of the instrument panel, perfect for attaching delivery dockets on, completes the driver’s mobile office.
Cabin temperature and infotainment
The standard heating and
ventilation system features a powerful four-speed fan with four adjustable
vents. Electronic climate control is available as an option while air
conditioning is part of the new Vauxhall Movano Launch Pack (see separate
chapter). Extensive insulation in the acoustically critical body areas
provides protection against engine, chassis and exterior noise.
When it comes to ‘infotainment’, new Movano’s audio system includes an auxiliary input socket for external music players and a CD player as standard. More extensive equipment is available with a high definition black and white display, controls integrated into the steering wheel and an optional integrated Tom-Tom navigation system.
Bluetooth technology for compatible mobile phones is another useful feature being offered as part of the new Movano Launch Pack.
Movano’s chassis keep crew and cargo safe. sound and
sorted
“Commercial vehicle customers demand not only very high
functional qualities,” says Roy Flecknell, Vehicle Line Manager for
Vauxhall heavy vans and based at the Vauxhall Engineering Centre at
Millbrook. “They also want excellent ride and drive
characteristics.”
Active safety therefore is as important as the vehicle’s passive safety features and with new Movano, active safety comes from the well-balanced chassis, tuned to deliver excellent comfort and precise handling – loaded or empty.
Both FWD and RWD versions of the Movano share a common cabin construction but with axles tuned differently to cope with the different payload requirements. All models feature suspension systems with McPherson type struts, however while the anti-roll bar has the same fixing points for FWD and RWD, it is routed differently for each.
In both cases the rear axle settings are designed to reduce ‘nose rise’ at the front for when the vehicle is fully laden. The front-wheel drive models have the option of pneumatic suspension.
The new Movano is equipped with a hydraulic power steering system, and with only 3.76 turns lock-to-lock, mobility and manoeuvrability in tight spaces is excellent. This is complemented by turning clearance diameter from curb to curb of 15.7/16.2 metres for FWD L3 models and 13.6 and 14.1 meters respectively in the RWD models.
Four-disc brake system with ABS, EBV and brake assist
Short
braking distances with maximum stability, irrespective of load, are
guaranteed by a four-disc brake system as standard (internally ventilated,
302 mm diameter in front / 305 mm rear). Disc brakes all round are
supplemented by the latest generation ABS with Traction Control (TCS). All
RWD variants are also equipped with the latest version of Bosch’s
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control System (TCS).
TCS senses lack of friction during acceleration and reacts to ensure the maximum contact between the road surface and the tires; the system senses wheel slip, adjusts throttle input and applies braking force to slow the wheels, preventing wheel spin and ensuring maximum traction.
ESP meanwhile, utilises sensors to compare the driver’s input through the steering wheel with the direction of the vehicle to sense if the vehicle is drifting out of control. When an imbalance is detected, ESP reduces throttle response and adjusts the braking force to each of the wheels, generating forces that keep the vehicle moving in the driver’s intended direction.
Passive safety…
One of the new Movano’s key
passive features is the structure of its bodywork in which defined load
paths control the distribution of force and deformation of the cab in the
event of a collision. A front airbag on the driver’s side as well as
three-point safety belts with belt tensioner and belt force limiter are
standard, while a passenger airbag, seat-integrated side airbags and
cornering lights, are all available as options.
At the rear, new Movano sports Adaptive Brake Lights, the intensity of the light increasing depending on the pressure applied to the brake pedal and designed to avoid those motorway bumper to bumper collisions.
Delicate cargo
All Movano panel van variants are fitted with a
steel bulkhead between the cab and cargo area to protect the driver and
passengers and to secure cargo. The bulkhead was tested to both DIN 75410-3
and ISO 27956 standards.
To help secure cargo, the different length models each has its own arrangement of lashing eyes; the shortest L1 version has six, the L2 has eight, the L3 has ten, and the L4 twelve recessed lashing eyes in accordance with DIN 75410-3. Further special load-securing systems such as fastening and guide rails for the floor, side walls and roof, or safety separation and retaining nets are available as options.
New Movano and of course its load are protected against theft and break-ins by a high-quality remote-control locking (standard) while the panel van models feature remote selective door locking which allows the load compartment to be unlocked independently of the cab. An additional security feature is a deadlock system which prevents the cab doors from being opened through force, like breaking a side window.
As a final bonus, potential thieves will have a tough time if they try to make off with a new Movano. Its door locks have been put through the rigorous Thatcham test and were found to exceed the stringent Thatcham E rating.
Powerful and efficient 2.3 CDTI diesel generation for new
Movano
In line with the recent trend in its passenger car range, the
new Vauxhall Movano features engines with smaller capacity but greater
engine power and torque than the model it replaces.
Customers can choose from three 2.3 CDTi four-cylinder diesel units with varying power outputs, each combining strong performance with among best in class figures for fuel consumption and emissions. With power outputs of the new engines at 74 kW/100 PS, 92 kW/125 PS and 107 kW/146 PS, this is an engine range scaled to meet a broad spectrum of customer requirements.
For the first time, the new Movano will offer rear-wheel drive (RWD) variants, which can be ordered in single and dual wheel versions. The greater axle capacities of RWD versions enable operation at higher gross vehicle weight range up to 4.5 tonnes. They can take an increased payload to a maximum of 2.5 tonnes, and are capable of towing large, heavy trailers, with a maximum 3.0 tonnes (twin rear wheels) or 2.5 tonnes on single rear wheels.
Rear-wheel drive models’ tighter turning circle – 13.6 meters curb to curb - makes driving easier in residential streets and construction sites. The engines of the FWD models are installed transversally, whereas RWD models have longitudinally fitted engines.
The valve trains are chain-driven to improve reliability and durability and reduce operating costs.
Engine downsizing with latest turbo technology
Just a glance
at the engine specifications already shows the increase in efficiency
compared with the 2.5 litre predecessor engine.
“While improving the driving performance, the 2.3 CDTi engine, although of smaller displacement, with new turbo technology not only generates up to 30 Nm higher torque at a lower rpm level, but also emits less CO2,” says Roy Flecknell, Vehicle Line Manager Movano and based at the Vauxhall Engineering Centre, Millbrook.
Lowering fuel consumption was a key motivator in development of the power trains. Research has shown that many customers were frustrated that they could not match in real life operating conditions the published fuel consumption figures. The focus for the new Movano power train has therefore been on achieving best in class fuel consumption based on real world operating conditions.
Combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) are between 35.3 mpg and 30,1 mpg and 211 to 249 g/km. The middle version with 310 Nm torque and 92 kW/125 PS, is expected to be the best selling engine in the Movano model range. The consumption and emission data are identical to the 100 PS engines, further underlining the efficiency of the common-rail direct injection unit.
For even greater power, the new Vauxhall van is also available with 107 kW/146 PS and 350 Nm maximum torque. Emissions for this engine range from 228 to 257 g/km.
All Movano’s come with six-speed manual transmission, which features a gear shift indicator suggesting when the driver should change gear to ensure optimum fuel economy. Automated Tecshift transmission can be ordered with the two more powerful versions. For improved shift quality, all units are equipped with a dual mass flywheel. All three engine variants meet the Euro 4 emissions standard.
Euro 5 models, which have diesel particulate filter as standard, are available on request. The 2.3 CDTi 146 PS is equipped with an enhanced engine cooling package.
An additional, and even more economic (Ecoflex) model variant with even lower CO2 will be added to the new Movano range the second half of 2010.
Movano equipment and options
As a state-of-the-art light
commercial vehicle, the new Vauxhall Movano offers the best quality in
interior design and comfort, and also extensive choice equipment and
options for individualisation.
Available in seven solid and three metallic exterior colours, fleet customers with specific colour requests can also be accommodated through the company’s broad colour palette, subject to the size of order. Inside, the seats and door trim are covered with high-quality, hard-wearing fabric, with durable vinyl coverings also available as an option.
All panel van variants are fitted with a steel bulk-head between the cab and cargo area to protect the driver and passengers and reduce noise in the cabin. To help secure the cargo, the length version L1 has six; the L2 has eight, the L3 ten and the L4 twelve recessed lashing eyes in accordance with ISO 27956. Further special load-securing systems such as fastening and guide rails for the floor, side walls and roof, or safety separation and holding nets are available as options.
The high level brake light integrated below the rear window line is another safety feature.
Extensive range of individual options
A wide range of options
is available to meet customer specific needs, including such kit as
automatic headlamps and windshield wipers, fog lamps, individual driver and
passenger comfort seats with adjustable lumbar support, air-cushioned
driver seat, electronic climate control, cruise control, electronic speed
limiter for maximum speed (fixed setting) and speed limits (variable), an
on board computer, a built-in digital tachograph system from Siemens VDO
and an acoustic park pilot system to help when reversing.
To meet a potentially broad range of vocational requirements, specialist features such as engine and transmission power take-off units are offered. The standard CD10 audio system includes a CD player and can be safely operated by the driver via remote controls on the steering column.
The upgraded CD30 BT version also has a high-resolution display mounted in an easy to read position in the driver’s field of vision, close to the rear-view mirror (when fitted). The auxiliary input socket and corresponding Bluetooth technology for compatible mobile phones are integrated in the instrument panel. A USB connection and an integrated TomTom® navigation system with controls on the steering wheel can be added to this system.
And the options list doesn’t stop there. Other options include trailer hitches or a step integrated in the rear bumper (standard in RWD models). Customers who often travel over construction sites or unpaved surfaces can order a rear axle differential with limited slip (RWD models) for extra traction. And for those who make frequent journeys with full loads, a rear axle with pneumatic suspension can be ordered to ensure maximum spring deflection regardless of the load condition (FWD only).
Passive safety options for driver and passenger include a passenger airbag as well as seat-integrated side airbags in the driver seat individual passenger seat.
Specific option packs for the new Vauxhall Movano are:
Office Pack
Lighting Pack
Comfort Pack
Construction Pack
Further options and option packs will be introduced later in 2010.
Quick customers to benefit from Launch offer
To celebrate the
new van’s launch, Vauxhall is giving away £1,400 worth of options, to
include air conditioning, a multi-function trip computer, vehicle alarm and
Bluetooth connectivity. Known as the Launch Pack, it will be offered on new
Movano’s until July 31 this year.
In addition, Vauxhall is also introducing a new Expression model, priced at just £20,250, bringing the entry level cost of Movano ownership down by £1,410 below the price of the L2H2 3300 panel van. While the Expression is the only Movano model not to benefit from the Launch Pack, it still gets a generous helping of standard kit, such as electric windows/mirrors and a full bulkhead.
But this value-for-money theme continues throughout the range. Whether it’s the front-wheel drive 3300, 2.3 CDTi Expression panel van with 100PS on tap, or one of the many rear-wheel drive, long wheelbase Movano derivatives with engine outputs up to 146PS, all feature a height adjustable driver’s seat, aux-in connection, adjustable steering column, all-round disc brakes with ABS and a brake-pad wear indicator.
Operators set to save on costs with new Movano
Movano
operators will be counting the extra pennies in their pockets thanks to a
combination of strong fuel economy, reduced maintenance requirements, a six
year anti-perforation warranty and an improved residual value forecast.
Keeping power train costs to a minimum, all engine variants have a maintenance-free camshaft drive chain instead of a cog belt while an oil change is now required only once every 25,000 miles and the engine coolant only at 100,000 miles.
Further savings are achieved through the improved durability of many of the moving parts; the clutch, the brake pads and discs all now have a 20 per cent longer service life. Maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle are projected to be some 24 per cent lower than the old model.
All round, the new Movano has been engineered for exemplary durability, with a service life of 250,000 miles, placing it at the top of its class when it comes to the fundamental commercial vehicle criteria on operating costs. The net result of these engineering changes has led industry guides to already confirm a substantial uplift in the Movano’s projected RVs.
Development of the new Vauxhall Movano included extensive testing under all conceivable operating conditions and in which 138 prototypes and preproduction vehicles covered a total of more than 2 million miles.