Van safety features solve a different problem from those in a car
A van has a high centre of gravity, a long wheelbase and a weight that can change by a tonne between the outward and return journeys. Electronic systems in commercial vehicles must therefore allow for the fact that the vehicle's behaviour changes fundamentally over a single day. The safety features of modern vans are built for this, but it's good to know what each abbreviation on the dashboard actually does.
ABS and brake force distribution
ABS prevents the wheels from locking when braking and keeps the vehicle steerable. In a van it's joined by electronic brake force distribution between the axles, because the load on the rear axle changes significantly with cargo. For the driver, there's only one rule: in an emergency stop, press the pedal all the way down and hold it; the system will take care of the rest.
ESP with load stabilisation
The stability system brakes individual wheels when the vehicle starts to leave its intended path. In commercial vehicles it is often supplemented by a function that recognises the load or a trailer starting to sway and dampens it with targeted braking. This is precisely the most valuable feature in a tall van, because on its own it is more prone to rolling over than a car.
Hill start assist
The system holds the brake for a moment before you move your foot to the accelerator. With a manual gearbox and a load in the back, you notice it — the vehicle doesn't roll backwards and the clutch doesn't have to hold the vehicle by force. But don't rely on it blindly; it only works for a short moment and not every vehicle has it.
Crosswind response
A tall side panel turns a van into a sail. Some vehicles can correct a deviation in a gust of wind by braking on the opposite side, for example when coming out of a tunnel or past a bridge. However, the system only mitigates the consequences; it's no substitute for actually slowing down in the wind.
Traction control when pulling away
An empty van has a light rear and easily spins its rear wheels on wet surfaces or gravel. Traction control brakes the driven wheels and reduces engine power, so the vehicle pulls away smoothly instead of spinning. A warning light flashing when you pull away isn't a fault, just information that the system is intervening — it's a signal to ease off the accelerator and pull away more gently. You'll find the equipment of specific vehicles in our fleet.
Manoeuvring aids and their limits
Parking sensors and a reversing camera
In a vehicle without a window in the rear doors, a camera or sensors are practically a must. The camera shows the space directly behind the vehicle, while the sensors monitor the distance. But neither will see a low kerb, a thin bollard or the edge of a ramp right at ground level. When you're reversing in a tight space, getting out and having a look is still the quickest method.
Blind spot monitoring
A van has a bigger blind spot than a car, because there's no view backwards through windows. The system warns you with a light in the mirror when someone is moving in the adjacent lane. You can't rely on it completely — motorbikes and cyclists may not get into its field in time. Mirrors adjusted as soon as you get in remain the basis.
Emergency braking and lane keeping
A forward emergency braking system can prevent a collision caused by a lapse in attention, or at least mitigate its consequences. It relies on a camera and radar behind the windscreen, so snow, mud and heavy rain all affect it. When a message about limited assistance system function lights up on the dashboard, it usually means a dirty sensor, not a fault.
Cruise control and speed limiter
In a van, a speed limiter is more useful than cruise control. You set a ceiling and the vehicle won't exceed it, even if it picks up speed with a load on a downhill stretch. Cruise control, on the other hand, needlessly varies the engine load in hilly terrain with a fully loaded vehicle, and in worse conditions you're better off switching it off completely — it has no place on snow, in the rain or in a traffic jam.
Restraint systems and the load
Airbags and seat belts protect the occupants, but they don't look after the load. An unsecured load behaves like a projectile under hard braking, and the bulkhead behind the seats may not be enough to stop it. The load needs to be strapped down, even if you're only driving across town. Fasten your seat belts too, you and your passengers — with high-mounted seats, this is a crucial feature.
What technology can't replace
All the assistance systems work on the assumption that the driver has the situation under control. They extend the margin; they don't increase the physical capabilities of the vehicle. A loaded van has a longer braking distance and poorer cornering response than a car, and no electronics can change that. You'll find our customers' experiences in the reviews, and practical answers in the FAQ section.
