Versatility and functionality

Fleet Equipment, Jan 2007 by Skydel, Seth

GMC offers new light-duty delivery options

For light-duty delivery and many types of service operations that carry cargo, tools and supplies as well as passengers, vehicle versatility is a primary consideration. Details related to functionality such as ease of operation, storage space and access to driving and cargo areas - are particularly important to these fleets.

The recently introduced 2007 GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express commercial vans from General Motors are designed for the versatility and functionality essential to fleets that use their vans to make deliveries, as mobile offices or for service operations, according to Bill Bleau, marketing manager, GM commercial vans.

"GM's new vans provide flexible loading capability," Bleau says. "In particular, regular-length Savana and Express models are offered with a 60/40-split, left-hand, side-hinged door that provides driver's side access to a second row of seats or the cargo compartment. Having access from both sides can be very productive and, in some cases, safer, especially when a driver has to lift heavy tools, equipment or cargo from the vehicle."

Access panels that replace windows on body sides are another option on the new GM vans aimed at enhancing productivity. Operated by gas struts, the panels can be opened individually using a key remote to provide easy access to cargo, parts and tools on interior racks and shelves.

"We've demonstrated that it can take a typical driver up to 30 seconds to open a side or rear door and remove what is needed, compared to 10 seconds with the access panels," Bleau says. "In service operations especially, the ability to simply walk up to the side of the van and take out what's needed is more productive, and not having to climb or reach into the vehicle can help prevent back strain and injuries from slips and falls, especially when bumpers and doorways are wet or covered with ice."

The new GMC and Chevrolet commercial vans can be specified in several different configurations. For example, the Savana and Express can accommodate eight, 12 or 15 seats or be specified as cargo versions with seating for two and high cubic capacity, according to Bleau. In addition, cutaway versions of the vans can be converted to meet various commercial, school-bus and RV requirements.

GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express commercial vans are offered in regular (135-in.) and extended (155-in.) wheelbases. Cutaway versions are available in 139-in., 159-in. and 177-in. wheelbase lengths. The 1500 Series vans include light-duty models rated at 7,200 lbs. GVW. The 2500 Series includes heavy-duty models rated at 8,600 lbs. GVW. The heavy-duty 3500 Series includes fullbodied cargo and passenger models rated at 9,600 lbs. GVW, and commercial and RV cutaway chassis from 9,600 to 4,050 lbs. GVWR.

The new GM commercial van product line also is available with six engine and three transmission choices, as well as an all-wheel drive option. Included are the Vortec 4.3L V6, rated 195 HP; the Vortec 4.8L V8, rated 285 HP; Vortec 5.3L V8 gasoline and FlexFuel models, rated 295 HP and 335 Ib./ft. of torque; and the Vortec 6.0L V8, rated 300 HP and 360 Ib/ft of torque. In some models, GM also offers the Duramax 6.6L V8 diesel, rated 250 HP and 460 lb./ft. of torque. With the diesel, maximum GVWR is 12,300 lbs. with a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs.

"General Motors firmly believes that our new 2007 GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express commercial vans offer fleets in a variety of industries and applications the functionality and versatility they require," Bleau says. "These new vehicles are among the very best value the industry has to offer."

By Seth Skydel

Senior Contributing Editor