I'm on the verge of purchasing a new T6 VW van for conversion later this year. I'm opting for an auto as my wife doesn't have a license for a manual. I've settled on a price with a local VW Commercial Van dealer as well as for trade in of my car. However, I have one niggling concern and that's the uncertainty around diesel engines and how they're now being vilified as a source of pollution that the government may well take action against at some point. This is a large investment for me and I don't want to encounter either hefty penalties, road tax, etc. a few years down the line. So my questions are as follows:
How do camper van owners currently view this uncertainty? Would it influence your purchase of a diesel vehicle?
Are there any base vans available (new vehicles) in the UK that are petrol and automatic that you'd recommend?
It could be that I'm being completely unrealistic in trying to source a petrol/auto van. I've never purchased a van before so excuse my ignorance. It's just where big decisions and large sums of money are concerned I like to be sure I haven't missed anything. Any help/guidance on this one greatly appreciated.
I think diesel vans won't be replaced for years. There's no electric or hybrid ones that I've seen. The latest Euro 6 engines will be ok for many years in my opinion. The media do love a good story to get us panicking don't they. Petrol engines certainly aren't the answer, they'll be moaning about Co2 emissions from petrols next.
I agree with Fleck2 entirely. There is no real alternative to the diesel engine at present, and I can't even see one on the distant horizon. Petrol engines are too thirsty, especially for larger commercial vehicles, and diesel cars only contribute a relatively small amount to pollution anyway. This includes camper-vans. Apparently, according to recently released figures, if they got rid of all diesel cars next week, it would result in a reduction in pollution of less than 11%.
If commercial vans ever change from diesel I guess it will not be to petrol. It will be to petrol hybrid, plug in hybrid or all electric depending on city or motorway use. A few yrs away yet so I would stick with diesel.
Quote: Originally posted by Opensauce on 05/5/2017
If commercial vans ever change from diesel I guess it will not be to petrol. It will be to petrol hybrid, plug in hybrid or all electric depending on city or motorway use. A few yrs away yet so I would stick with diesel.
Absolutely.
In my opinion, unless someone comes up with a completely new type of engine as yet undreamed of, I think we will need to completely change our way of life. Particularly the bulk transportation of goods over medium to long distances. Small electric vehicles for local deliveries, and all bulk long distance transportation by electric train.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Diesel vs petrol options
