RAZORBACK, a van with a cargo bed that drops to ground level for easy loading, has been launched into the UK market. Developed by Razorback Vehicle Corporation in partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the Razorback conversion is exclusive to the Volkswagen Transporter.

A turn of a key controls four electro-hydraulic rams powering the cargo bed to ground level. This enables the operator to roll-on, roll-off any cargo without any lifting, cutting time and the risk of injury. It is available as a panel van, high-top van or pick-up and the steel cargo bed will take a 1,000kg payload and measures 2,520mm by 1,280mm. Cargo height raised is 1,500mm for the panel van and 1,850mm for the high-top van. Retail price is from £18,500 and there is a a choice of three 2.5-litre engines, two turbodiesels - 88 and 102bhp - and one petrol at 144bhp. Power steering is standard.