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A new generation Opel Combo van will be launched in September following a debut at the Hannover Commercial Vehicle Show in September, writes Brian Byrne . Based on the Citroen Berlingo and the Peugeot Partner, following the purchase of Opel by PSA Group, the van will be the 5th generation of the nameplate, and will offer load volume of up to 4.4 cu m, and up to 1,000kg payload. There will be SWB and LWB variants along with a crew cab option. The new Combo will feature a range of connectivity and safety technologies, including a permanent rear view camera. Prices in Ireland will be announced closer to launch.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is partnering with TaxiWatch in a bid to help save lives, writes Trish Whelan . Founded by Kilkenny taxi driver Derek Devoy, TaxiWatch is a suicide prevention initiative aiming to help save lives. Developed in November 2014, the service came about after Derek saved three people from taking their own lives in Kilkenny City. Since then, over 200 people have been helped through the programme in Kilkenny alone. TaxiWatch receives hundreds of messages from people in crisis looking for help on a weekly basis. Working closely with charities in Ireland including Pieta House, Samaritans Ireland, Teac Tom and others, TaxiWatch signposts people to charities who provide free counselling and listening services. With 1,127 drivers currently signed up to TaxiWatch across Ireland and Northern Ireland, the primary aim for the initiative is to increase members. This involves getting as many tai drivers as possible signed up and trained in the SafeTALK suicide awaren...

Fergus Conheady with the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van The latest range of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter panel vans is now on sale priced from €21,950 ex VAT. This new generation Sprinter is 100 per cent new from tip to tail and is regarded as a conquest vehicle for the brand.   It is launched with a new design as well as passenger car levels of comfort and safety, a generous load volume and carrying capacity, the addition of front wheel drive, and a new infotainment and connectivity system which will result in better fleet management, lower operating costs and maximum cost effectiveness.   The company say this is ‘an all rounder for any business sector’. The diverse market includes couriers, express deliveries and parcel services operators, those who use their van as a mobile parts store and workshop; food delivery sector, constructions operatives and trades people, shuttle service, minibus and passenger transport providers. Specialist users like ambulan...

The new generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van has arrived on the Irish market at a starting price of €21,950 plus taxes and charges. In addition to offering high levels of technical advances, the new version of the van offers a FWD variant for the first time. A new 3-year warranty is now standard across the Mercedes-Benz vans range. One innovative feature is a new networked, online connectivity system that gives operators comprehensive fleet control. Incorporating Mercedes PRO Connect and the company's new MBUX multimedia system, the system's functions monitored include vehicle operation and supervision, fleet communication, maintenance management and a digital driver's logbook. There are 2.1 and 3.0 engines with power outputs ranging from 114hp-190hp.

Mercedes-Benz Ireland has released prices for the new generation Sprinter van in advance of its arrival here, writes Brian Byrne . I drove it a while back abroad, and initial impressions are that it's a very comfortable and competent vehicle indeed. The starting RRP will be €21,950, plus taxes and charges. The Sprinter arrives early next month, and dealers were recently in Portugal for a global training event. The new Sprinter will come with a FWD version for the first time, in addition to the RWD and AWD which are the options of the outgoing model. A chassis cab version will be available for use by conversion companies including RV builders. A WiFi hotspot will also be available within the connectivity options. The full range of driver assistance systems that are part of the Mercedes-Benz passenger cars environment will also be available in the new Sprinter, in addition to specific ones for LCVs such as the side wind assistance. These will include a reversing camera ...

Volkswagen increased its sales of commercial vehicles in Ireland by 13.6pc in the first quarter compared to the same period in 2017, with strong performances by Crafter, Amarok and Transporter models, writes Brian Byrne . This compares to a 5.3pc increase by the Irish LCV market as a whole. With over 2,500 LCV units registered overall by Volkswagen Commercials Ireland, the new generation Crafter showed a 53pc increase, while the Amarok pickup improved by 46pc, and the Transporter by 34pc over the previous year. The Caddy small van remains the biggest selling van in Ireland.