ProAce puts Toyota back in the UK van market

A NEW medium-duty van offering load space of up to 7cu m will be introduced by Toyota next spring. The new van, called the ProAce, replaces the HiAce and allows Toyota to expand its presence in European LCV markets. It is based on the Citroen Dispatch/Peugeot Expert panel vans and will be built in Europe following the signing of a deal with PSA Peugeot Citroen. The ProAce panel and will be available in two lengths and heights, giving load capacities of 5cu m, 6cu m or 7cu m, depending on the configuration chosen. Payloads of up to 1,200kg can be carried and the ProAce will have a towing capacity of up to two tonnes. The new van will be available with two sliding side doors if required and a choice of top-hinged tailgate or dual side-hinged rear doors opening to 270 degrees. It can also be specified as a panel van, glass van or crew cab. According to Toyota, the ProAce will be equipped and engineered for car-like comfort and driving. Visibility is said to be excellent with a high-set driver’s seat and large windscreen giving excellent visibility and an MPV-like environment on-board. The ProAce will be highly specified for convenience, says Toyota, with electric windows, central remote door locking and adjustable steering position. More equipment details will be available nearer to the on-sale date.