I think GM is waiting to see what trend 'works' in the market... and will bring out their 'version' of professional trades trucks/vans.
Personally, I am a Chevy guy... just used to them and comfortable with them. They sure are ruff on gas though...
I liked that VIA concept... but spending something like $80-90K for a service van... YIKES. The insurance alone would KILL my one man show budget... albeit the gas savings would be great! I really think this style of hybrid (diesel locomotive style, that is with NO mechanical connection between the engine and wheels) is the best way to go... it is actually a REAL hybrid... the Prius style is not a true hybrid in the traditional sense.
Meanwhile... I get 10-11 MPH... and just have to live with it (I have a LWB Express 3500, it weighs well over 7000# loaded). One of the things I do is try to 'manage' my customer base so my travel distance is as short as reasonably possible.
Has anyone seriously looked at 'tuning' their engine... that is, either re-programming the engine computer or replacing it? We do this with auto engines mounted on experimental aircraft... yet it is a laborious project... I have not looked into what could be done with a Chevy 5.7 or 6.0 V8 mounted in a van.
Thoughts?
GA-HVAC-Tech
Your comfort, Your way, Everyday!
GA's basic rules of home heating and AC upgrades:
*Installation is more important than the brand of equipment
*The duct system keeps the house comfortable; the equipment only heats and cools (and dehumidifies)
*The value of comfort, over the long term; leave economic choices behind!
Choose your contractor wisely!