The improved Ducato will be launched this month and is the latest version of a best-selling van whose five generations have picked up international awards and sold more than 2.2 million vehicles since 1981. The van is 'designed by business' and the secret of its success is being able to accept change so it can respond to the specific requirements of its customers.

The main change to the Ducato takes is an extended range of engines: there are four new MultiJet direct-injection turbodiesel Euro 5 engines, with powers from 115 to 177 HP, five- or six-speed gearboxes and record-low consumption and CO2 emission levels (from 6.4 l/100 km and 169 g/km with no usage limits or special features). Customers will therefore have a carefully structured range from which to choose the engine that is best suited to their business.

As well as the engines, the latest Ducato offers three new interior trims with varying degrees of luxury and elegance: this is something no other manufacturer currently offers. Confirming attention to ergonomics and comfort (acoustics, climate control and suspension), the Ducato cab aims to be versatile, comfortable and functional. Another new feature is: "Traction+", the innovative traction control system that improves the vehicle's handling on difficult terrain with poor grip. The next-generation telematics solutions - from Blue&Me Nav to "eco:Drive Fiat Professional" - also make a first appearance, suggesting the best route for customers or helping them to drive correctly and economically.

Just like the current range, the new offering is well structured and diversified: the different combinations of chassis, engine and mechanics mean there are around 2,000 variants on commercial versions, people carriers and bases for transformations and trims. More specifically, the van range has eight different capacities, ranging from 8 to 17 m3, which are more productive (cost per kilometre depending on the goods transported) than before thanks to the new Euro 5 engines that reduce consumption by around 15% (compared with Euro 4 engines) and increase service intervals to 48,000 km. It has always been at the top of its class, but the new Ducato adds yet another string to its bow as it continues its 30 years of seeing off the competition.

ENGINES

Fiat has brought revolutionary, yet simple and environmentally friendly, engines to the market over the last 20 years, without taking away the pleasure of driving. Today we continue this tradition: a true revolution in engine technology accompanies the launch of the new Ducato. The new range of Euro 5 engines is more powerful and diverse, and they are designed for different jobs. Each one is a leader in its power bracket in terms of consumption, emissions and performance.

There is the new 115-HP two-litre engine, which has the lowest consumption and CO2 emission levels, and the new 177-HP three-litre MultiJet, which is the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine. There are also two 2.3-litre engines: one has 130 HP and the other 148 HP with a variable geometry turbocharger. With the exception of the three-litre engine, all new Ducato engines are part of the second-generation MultiJet family, which represents technology, performance and economy.

All the engines stand out for their exceptional performance, long service intervals, low consumption (saving up to 15% compared with the Euro 4 engines) and CO2 emissions well below legal limits, as well as for their quietness and relatively low weight, which is always important for a commercial vehicle where tonnage is a key factor. The fact that we offer specific engines, rather than just different power variants of the same engine, shows that Fiat Professional gives its customers the ability to choose the engine best suited to their business, rather than settle for a compromise. The range is completed by the three-litre, 136-HP, dual-fuel (petrol/methane) Natural Power engine.

MultiJet II technology

MultiJet II engines provide economy, ecology and performance levels that are unrivalled on the market. The fuel system is different from the first-generation MultiJet engines as it contains faster injectors that can carry out multiple injections close together. More specifically, it can perform a main modulated injection in separate phases and bring forward subsequent injections. The MultiJet II can manage eight injections per cycle thanks to the new servo valve with balanced shutter, which offers more speed, flexibility and precision in the various stages of operation. Everything is more economical and reliable owing to a simpler construction with 40 per cent fewer components. The 1,600-bar fuel injection pressure from the first-generation MultiJet system increases to 1,800 bar in MultiJet II, and the new type of injectors makes it possible to implement even more advanced combustion optimisation technologies such as rate-shaping injection, which involves two consecutive injections so close together that there is a continuous and modulated flow of fuel into the cylinders. This allows improved combustion with less noise and lower particulate and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. MultiJet II engines are fully compliant with Euro 5 standards and they are a decisive step forward towards future and more severe legislation.

Engine architecture

All engines for the new Ducato have four in-line cylinders, with four valves per cylinder and a double overhead camshaft. The 130-HP 2.0- and 2.3-litre engines have a fixed geometry turbocharger with an intercooler, while the more powerful 148-HP 2.3-litre and 177-HP three-litre engines have a variable geometry turbocharger. The cylinder head of the engines is made from aluminium alloy, while the block is made from cast iron. The pistons have a cooling tunnel, and the geometry of the intake and exhaust pipes has been optimised. In order to ensure a quick start from cold, the electric fuel supply pump is inside the fuel tank. This prolongs the life of the diesel filter and, if the fuel runs out completely, it enables the driver to restart the supply without emergency assistance. The pump also improves overall performance. The diesel filter is hugely effective at separating water in order to avoid damage to the pump and the injectors. All the engines have an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler, which is controlled directly by the engine control unit. The technical and mechanical features of the different engines are described below.

2.0 115 MultiJet II

With low consumption and high agility, this engine is ideal for flexible jobs - especially over short and medium distances. It has four in-line cylinders with 1,956 cc and 16 valves, generating maximum power of 115 HP (85 kW) at 3,700 rpm and a torque of 28.5 kgm (280 Nm) at 1,500 rpm. Compared with the previous entry-level Euro 4, 100-HP, 2.2-litre engine, the new MultiJet 115-HP two-litre engine delivers increased performance (+15% power and +12% maximum torque) to ensure better pick-up, acceleration and uphill power. Depending on the chassis, the engine allows for a top speed of between 140 and 150 km/h, while consumption and emissions have been significantly reduced: NEDC consumption from just 6.4 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 169 g/km, which is 13% less than the equivalent version with the previous 100-HP 2.2-litre engine. The 115-HP two-litre MultiJet is also light (just 180 kg), which helps to reduce consumption and increase capacity at equal GVW. Service intervals are fixed at 48,000 km.

2.3 130 MultiJet II

The 2.3-litre MultiJet generates maximum power of 130 HP (96 kW) at 3,600 rpm and maximum torque of 32.6 kgm (320 Nm) at 1,800 rpm. These are big numbers that make the engine perfect for mixed usage: robust and reliable with excellent performance, agile in traffic and superb over long distances, the engine is ideal both for transporting people and distributing goods locally. Its high torque also enables the vehicle to pick up easily, even with a heavy load.

The engine's emissions (186 g/km) and consumption (7.1 l/100 km) are 9% lower than the previous Euro 4, 120-CV, 2.3-litre engine, but with 8% (10 CV) more power: this makes it the best in its class, offering the best balance between power, torque, consumption and range. Performance is also good: depending on the chassis configuration, the top speed is between 145 and 155 km/h. The service interval has been extended (from 45,000 km to 48,000 km) and the "Start&Stop" system, which enables further reduction of consumption, CO2 emissions and noise, is available on request.
 
The engine has a cast iron block with integrated bearings to minimise vibrations (the timing system features a toothed belt drive with an automatic belt tensioner). The engine has a turbocharger with a wastegate valve which, at more than 2,200 rpm, enables the partial and gradual outflow of some of the exhaust gases. This optimises available torque delivery at all revs, making the vehicle easier to drive. The glow plugs are located directly inside the combustion chamber: they are controlled by the ECU, which significantly reduces cranking and pre-heating time and helps to limit the stress put on the engine when starting from cold in low external temperatures. The water/oil heat exchanger (modine), the oil pump, the vacuum pump and the centrifugal water pump are integrated.

In order to comply with the limits set by Euro 5 standards, the 130-HP 2.3-litre MultiJet has a system with an EGR valve which, controlled by the ECU, manages the partial recirculation of exhaust gases to reduce emissions, while the heat exchanger cools the recycled gases before they are re-injected into the combustion chamber. Compared with the EGR technology on the Euro 4 engines, the new system uses the "DC Motor", a device that enables the engine to move from pneumatic to electronic control of recirculated gas volumes, which ensures much more accurate measurement.

2.3 150 MultiJet II

Compared with the Euro 4 Ducato, the number of 2.3-litre MultiJets available has doubled: there is now a second engine with a high-efficiency variable geometry turbocharger, power of 148 HP (109 kW) at 3,600 rpm and maximum torque of 35.7 kgm (350 Nm) at 1,500 rpm. When compared with the 120-HP, Euro 4 2.3-litre engine, this engine is responsive and performs brilliantly thanks to a significant increase in power (+24%) and torque (9%). For example, the top speed is between 152 and 162 km/h (depending on the version). The improved consumption and emission figures are in line with the 130-HP engine (respectively 7.1 l/100 km and 186 g/km of CO2) while the performance levels offer a viable alternative to the previous 157-HP Euro 4 three-litre engine: the power is similar (-5%), but the capacity is lower which means less weight (-40 kg) and lower consumption (-19%). The service interval is fixed at 48,000 km and "Start&Stop" is available upon request.

3.0 180 MultiJet Power

This is the new Ducato's most powerful engine, with 2,999 cc, a maximum power of 177 HP (130 kW) at 3,500 rpm and an exceptional peak torque: 40.8 kgm (400 Nm) at 1,400 rpm. Compared with the previous 157-HP Euro 4 three-litre engine, this engine increases power by 13% to become the best-performing four-cylinder engine in its class. As well as being much quieter, the exceptional agility of the engine ensures great driveability. It is the ideal engine for professionals who demand power, torque and pick-up. Strong and versatile, it is totally comfortable in all usage conditions, ensuring maximum ease of driving thanks to the torque reserve that is always at the driver's disposal. Whether used to transport valuables or large volumes over long distances, as a camper van and motorhome or simply as a people carrier, the quiet new engine guarantees excellent productivity and performance - whatever the GVW and chassis configuration. The high performance levels do not come at the cost of fuel consumption, which is 9% better than the previous engine (8 l/100 km), while CO2 emissions are 209 g/km.

Each component is designed for heavy loads over long distances: the timing chain will last the entire lifetime of the vehicle, while the service intervals are fixed at 48,000 km. The three-litre MultiJet Power 180 has a variable geometry turbocharger, glow plugs located inside the combustion chamber and controlled by the ECU, and an EGR valve. The engine has a cast iron block with integrated bearings and a dual-mass flywheel that softens vibrations from the engine and therefore greatly reduces noise. The timing system is a drive chain with double overhead camshaft.

Start&Stop and Gear Shift Indicator

Specifically designed for driving in towns and cities, the Start&Stop system automatically cuts out the engine when traffic conditions bring the vehicle to a stop (e.g. traffic lights, queues and temporary stops), while ensuring that all comfort and safety features (lights, climate control, sound system and windscreen wipers) remain active. Turning off the engine when the vehicle is stationary prevents needless fuel consumption (up to 15% less in the urban cycle), reduces harmful emissions and cuts down noise. The system can be switched on or off using a button on the dashboard. It is available on request for the 130-HP and 148-HP versions of the 2.3-litre engine. Engines with Start&Stop also have the Gear Shift Indicator (GSI), a kind of co-pilot that advises the driver, in the form of an icon on the instrument panel, when to change gear to ensure best use of the engine: for example, selecting a higher gear to reduce the number of revs or changing down to make the best use of the available torque. The results in terms of driveability, economy and the reduction of harmful emissions are immediate and concrete.

Fiat Ducato 140 Natural Power

Available in several configurations (glass/panel vans - flatbed cabs - minibus), the methane-fuelled Ducato is part of Fiat Professional's Natural Power range, which also includes: Panda Van 1.4, Grande Punto Van 1.4, Fiorino 1.4 and Doblò Cargo 1.4 Tjet.

The Ducato 140 Natural Power has a three-litre engine which, in methane mode, generates maximum power of 136 HP (100 kW) from 2,750 to 3,500 rpm and peak torque of 350 Nm at 1,500 rpm. Fuelled in this way, the vehicle (configured as a maxi van with a medium wheelbase and high roof) reaches a top speed of 155 km/h, can tackle a 21.5% slope fully loaded and ensures low fuel consumption (8.8 kg of methane per 100 km in the combined cycle) and reduced CO2 emissions (239 g/km). The engine was designed and manufactured by FPT Industrial: right from the beginning of the project, it was designed to work with methane by adopting specific components to ensure maximum reliability and efficiency as well as performance to match a diesel engine. The vehicle is configured to run on methane by default. Petrol fuelling kicks in automatically only when the methane runs out: in recovery mode, the 15-litre petrol tank has a range of more than 100 km to ensure that the driver can get to the nearest methane retailer. The five gas cylinders are located under the floor, meaning that the loading area is not compromised. The overall capacity of 220 litres (36 kg) provides a range of 400 km. If the methane runs out, the ECU automatically manages the switch to petrol fuelling. In terms of economy, methane is a viable alternative to traditional fuels because cost per kilometre is extremely low: for example, filling up the Ducato 140 Natural Power costs just 32 euros. In terms of environmental sustainability, methane-fuelled vehicles do not emit particulate and their nitrogen oxide emissions are 20% lower than those from diesel engines.

Gearboxes

In order to ensure maximum power and torque, the engines of the new Ducato are equipped with two manual six-speed gearboxes that provide excellent driveability and performance with low emissions and noise. The 130-HP and 148-HP 2.3-litre engines have a two-axis gearbox with peak torque of 320 Nm and multi-cone synchronisers in first, second and third gears. The small and transversely installed three-axis gearbox for the three-litre MultiJet engine can generate peak torque of 400 Nm with a maximum GVW of 4,000 kg plus 2,500 for the trailer. There are multi-cone synchronisers on all gears (including reverse, but excluding fifth and sixth gears), while the cable gear control system ensures comfortable manoeuvrability in all conditions. The 115-HP two-litre MultiJet engine has a five-speed manual gearbox. The new Ducato's most powerful engine, the 3.0 180 MultiJet Power, is available with an MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) gearbox that combines the excellent engine performance and the low consumption of manual transmission with the simplicity and comfort of an automatic gearbox.

The Comfort-Matic is the solution for various jobs: from recreational vehicles (caravans, motorhomes and camper vans) to urban delivery vans, and from urban people carriers (Panorama, minibuses) to public service fleets (postal services, local authorities, urban couriers). Technically, the gearbox has traditional manual transmission with the manual linkage replaced by actuators controlled electronically by a TCU (Transmission Control Unit). It has six gears (plus reverse) and can be either fully automatic or manual sequential. In manual mode, the driver can select a gear by using the stick on the dashboard; there is no clutch pedal.

INTERIOR

The interiors of the new Ducato have been revamped with new colour combinations for the plastic parts of the dashboard, which are now more uniform and darker, and for the more colour-contrast seat fabrics, making the already comfortable, practical and highly functional cab even more attractive and welcoming. The cab retains its internal lighting and excellent visibility thanks to the large window areas that optimise working conditions. The central console of the dashboard has been redesigned. The fully integrated sound system and glossy black surfaces provide a feeling of quality of style never before seen in a vehicle of this type. The redesign of the upper central part of the dashboard generated space for the TomTom "my-port" designed by Fiat to make its vehicles compatible with this important feature.

The introduction of different trim levels is also a new feature: the basic trim is still an upgrade on the previous dashboard because of chrome-plated symbols and images (climate controls, gearstick, air vent controls); the Techno trim is exclusively enriched by chrome-effect plastic parts which, together with the sound system, give the vehicle a feel of technology and elegance. There is also a Wood trim, which uses DipPrint technology to simulate walnut wood, and was designed exclusively for the new Ducato to meet the requirements of the camping-cars industry. It may also prove popular on the more exclusive people-carrier, shuttle bus and mobile-office versions.

All these new designs and features do not in any way compromise the practicality of the Ducato cab: the clipboard, the key-lockable central compartment that is large enough to store a laptop, the refrigerated compartment able to store a 1.5-litre bottle, and the drinks holder that can also be used to hold a mobile phone or an ashtray (there are two sockets next to it, one of which can be used as a cigarette lighter). The door panel has been refreshed with a different colour but it retains its practical bottle holder and a place to store the Fix&Go repair kit, as well as the mid-height pockets for stashing small objects and personal effects.

Instrument panel

Located underneath a pronounced anti-glare hood, the oval-shaped instrument panel allows the driver to quickly and easily read information in any light. As an addition to the previous model, vehicles equipped with the Start&Stop system also have the Gear Shift Indicator icon, while versions with automatic climate control display the outside temperature.

Seats and doors

The seats in the revised Ducato are newly available in red fabric, velvet or faux leather (depending on the trim levels), adding to the pleasure and comfort of working and travelling in the vehicle. There are several seat settings enabling drivers of all sizes to find a correct and comfortable driving position, and the steering wheel and armrest height can also be adjusted. The front seats have a seatbelt with pretensioner and a headrest. The driver's seat can be adjusted for height, horizontal position and angle of the backrest as standard (on request it may be heated and have lumbar and armrest adjustment). A specially cushioned driver's seat is available as an optional extra with the springs adjusted to the weight of the driver in order to ensure a truly relaxing drive. For the passenger, there is a single seat or the two-seat bench with accessorised central backrest, which can be folded down into a practical table when required. There are convenient storage compartments under the driver's and passengers' seats.

Acoustics and climate control

The new Ducato is spacious and ergonomic, with excellent climate control and noise insulation. It is at the top of its class for quietness: the articulation index is 55 when travelling at 120 km/h in fifth gear, which is essentially the same as a medium-category car. The internal temperature and humidity are also important for those who spend a lot of time in the vehicle: a good climate control system should keep these two parameters within optimum limits at all times of the year (temperature of 22-25 °C and humidity of 40-50%). Depending on the version, the Ducato offers different solutions: heater/ventilator, manual climate control or single-zone automatic climate control with solar radiation sensor. An additional air conditioner is available for the Combi and Panorama versions, which have a rear unit that can heat and cool the second and third rows more quickly through dedicated air ducts. In order to ensure comfortable internal temperature even in harsh climates, the Ducato offers on request two additional Webasto heaters: one is automatically activated when the engine is switched on, while the other is fully independent, works when the engine is off and can be programmed using a timer.

FEATURES

The new Ducato has several features that allow customers to adapt the vehicle to their own particular requirements. There are features to aid driving such as Cruise Control, which allows the driver to travel at a predetermined speed without touching the accelerator. This is especially comfortable for long motorway journeys. Similarly, variable power-assisted steering - which comes as standard on the 180 MultiJet Power and is optional on the 130 and 150 MultiJets - makes manoeuvres easier, especially parking, by almost halving the amount of effort required to turn the wheel compared with standard power steering, and it also ensures maximum precision at high speeds by gradually adjusting to the force exerted by the driver. Parking sensors make it easier to manoeuvre the vehicle in tight spaces or when visibility is impaired through an internal and external beeping sound that indicates the presence of obstacles behind the vehicle. Finally, the new Ducato has a reflective windscreen that significantly reduces the amount of solar heat and a Fix&Go kit for quick puncture repairs.

The new Ducato's telematics system has solutions such as the dashboard-integrated sound system, the "my-port" for the "Blue&Me Tom Tom" satellite navigation system, the integrated Blue&Me system which means many operations can be performed using voice or steering wheel controls, and the highly useful Eco:Drive Professional.

Sound system

The audio equipment consists of a radio and sound system consisting of four 30 W speakers (two mid-woofers and two tweeters) and, in the Panorama version, two additional 30 W full-range speakers. Both systems ensure the best performance and balance from the speakers. The radio, CD player and MP3 player are ergonomically integrated into the dashboard. The controls are high up on the dashboard so they can be easily reached by the driver and front passengers, and there are also controls on the steering wheel. The device has RDS (Radio Data System), TA (Traffic Announcements) and PTY (the code by which radio stations indicate their genre of music, allowing the device to automatically select a particular style). Volume settings are retained from when the device was last switched off. There is also a device that automatically adjusts the volume in accordance with the speed of the vehicle. The customer can choose between seven equaliser bands in order to customise the sound settings and the radio can store up to 30 stations. The sound system of the new Ducato can be connected to Blue&Me via hands free, to a Bluetooth device and advanced voice recognition, a USB port, an MP3 player and an SMS reader.

"Blue&Me-TomTom LIVE"

Available on request, "Blue&Me-TomTom LIVE" is the latest incarnation of the Blue&Me infotelematic system created as a result of the partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles and TomTom, European leader in portable navigation devices. Based on the TomTom Go1000, this device allows you to manage - through a practical colour touch-screen - phone calls, satellite navigation, media and all the driving information you need, which it downloads directly from the on-board computer systems. The new version has a next-generation capacitive touch-screen and TomTom LIVE services such as HD Traffic, which has been named as the best traffic information system currently on the market. This combines accurate traffic information with a dynamic route calculation, providing real-time updates of congestion, traffic jams and road closures. Customers get free use of the LIVE services for a whole year.

Eco:Drive Professional

The new Ducato features the innovative and exclusive eco:Drive Professional, the eco:Drive application developed specifically for Fiat Professional. Designed specifically for commercial vehicles, this version incorporates parameters typical of an LCV - load carried and different front area (if the vehicle has been converted) - in the tried and tested eco:Drive, a software application developed by Fiat for more efficient and less polluting vehicle management. The unique device makes it possible to analyse vehicle trip data such as average fuel consumption, total mileage and the impact of load on the efficiency index, suggesting more appropriate behaviour for an economic and sustainable driving style. The numerous data items collected by eco:Drive Professional can be subsequently grouped and processed by means of a web platform known as eco:Drive Fleet that manages all data on individual vehicles and makes it possible to plan efficiency improvements. With the introduction of eco:Drive for LCV, the fleet manager can call on a useful tool to improve the training and efficiency of drivers, thus considerably increasing the overall fleet savings over the year. Eco:Drive Fleet saves up to 15% on fuel costs and plays an important role when it comes to wear and tear. In fact, a real "eco-drive" gets the best and most efficient use out of all vehicle components. The application uses the Blue&Me interface, developed through a partnership between the Fiat Group and Microsoft, the most widespread on-board telematic system in Europe, with more than 1 million units installed on Group vehicles.

SAFETY

The new Ducato has several sophisticated electronic devices for protecting its occupants and controlling the dynamics of the vehicle. The braking system for the entire range uses discs: the front discs are self-ventilated and range from 280 to 300 mm according to the GVW, while the rear discs are 280 mm. ABS comes as standard and is equipped with a hydraulic control unit with eight solenoid valves, four active sensors and four Electronic Brake-force Distribution channels which divide braking action over all four wheels to prevent them locking and ensure full control of the vehicle in all conditions. The ESP (Electronic Stability Program) is available on request; in an emergency, it checks the dynamics of the vehicle, the rotation of the vehicle around its vertical axis (yaw speed), lateral acceleration and the angle of the steering wheel. Using a complex mathematical model, it uses this information to calculate whether the vehicle is going round a corner safely. If necessary, it takes action by braking on the appropriate wheel or reducing the amount of fuel sent to the engine in order to reduce power. The following systems are part of the ESP: LAC (Load Adaptive Control), which identifies the size of the load and the vehicle's centre of gravity; Hill Holder, which makes hill starts easier by prolonging pressure on the brake calipers after the driver's foot has been removed from the brake pedal; HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assistance), which automatically increases braking pressure under emergency braking; ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), which acts on the individual brakes and/or temporarily reduces the power delivered to the engine in order to counteract the effects of one or both drive wheels skidding; MSR (Motor Schleppmoment Regelung), which returns torque to the engine and avoids excessive drag of the drive wheels in the event of sudden downshifting. In terms of passive safety devices, as well as the two-phase activation driver's airbag, the new Ducato has a full-size, 120-litre airbag for the front passengers and, on request, side airbags and window bags.

"Traction+" system

"Traction+" is an addition to the new Ducato. It is an innovative traction control system that improves handling on difficult terrain with poor grip. The system uses the advanced hardware present on vehicles with ESP. The control unit uses specific brake system control and management algorithms to simulate the behaviour of a self-locking differential electronically.  When a drive wheel is in poor grip conditions, the control unit of the system detects where the slipping has occurred and instructs the hydraulic system to perform a braking action on that wheel. It simultaneously transfers the engine torque to the wheel on the surface with better grip. This makes it easy to drive, maintains directional stability and control, and ensures the best possible traction even over the roughest and most slippery surfaces. The system is operated by a button on the dashboard, and can operate at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

Suspension

The new Ducato retains its front-wheel drive configuration with front MacPherson-type suspension and rear rigid-axle suspension with leaf springs. This combination ensures optimum stability, excellent use of the loading area and cab space, reduced weight and great versatility. The body structure of the new Ducato allows for versions with a GVW of 4,000 kg, cab versions with increased track (up to 1,980 mm for conversion bases for leisure time) and self-levelling pneumatic suspension on all trim levels, tonnages and wheelbases. Compared with normal suspension, the load height limit is lower and can be reduced even further by pushing buttons on the dashboard. This makes it easier to load and unload or improves the ramp angle and makes it easier to clear any obstacles that may be underneath the vehicle.

VERSATILE RANGE

The new Ducato has a well-structured and diverse range of around 2,000 chassis-engine-mechanics combinations, including: Versions for transporting goods, vehicles for transporting people and bases for conversions and various trim levels
- Two mechanical architectures: 15" wheels (GVW of 3, 3.3 and 3.5 tonnes) and 16" wheels (GVW of 3.5 and 4 tonnes);
- GVWs of between 3 and 4 tonnes;
- Payloads of between 1,000 and 2,000 kg (including driver);
- Three wheelbases, four lengths and three heights (for vans);
- Eight load area volumes from 8 to 17 m3;
- Three different sizes of sliding side door and rear door;
- Four wheelbases and five lengths for the conversion bases range (cabs, flatbeds, double cabs, etc.);
- Maximum permitted loads up to 2,100 kg on the front axle and 2,400 kg on the real axle
- Four engines;
- 12 exterior colours and 120 special shades;
- More than 150 optional extras.

Loading area

The Ducato has always been one of the most practical vehicles in its class. Today it remains one of the leaders in its class in terms of maximum volume (17 m3), width between the wheel arches (1,422 mm), maximum height of the loading area (2.17 m), rear door height (2.03 m) and load height limit (46 cm with self-levelling suspension). The new Ducato is a commercial vehicle at heart, as demonstrated by its large, square and highly practical loading area. Access is through robust, practical and reliable sliding side doors and rear doors that can be opened to 90°, 180° and 270° (on request). The vehicle has two types of partition separating the cab from the loading area: either fully panelled and upholstered in soundproofing material or sliding glass for communication between the two areas. The new Ducato has hooks on the floor to keep the goods in place, with fastening rings that can be folded away so as not to block movement of the goods when required, and waist-level side hooks. The interior sides are covered in thermoformed panels up to waist height to protect the walls of the vehicle from damage arising from goods moving about. The loading area has a 15-Watt ceiling light (a removable light is available on request).

DUCATO: A 30 YEAR STORY

The five generations of the Ducato have accompanied so many professionals over the last 30 years. It has always been popular with independent workers in various sectors (crafts, commerce, construction, agriculture, maintenance and services), large fleets (public and private), convertible recreational vehicles (camper vans, caravans and motorhomes) and specialist transportation (ambulances, minibuses, school buses, flatbed trucks, insulated vehicles, etc.). The reasons for the vehicle's success lie in the great versatility that it has shown over these 30 years.

The first version was launched in 1981, when the market and economic climates were totally different to what they are today. Even back then, the Ducato was a practical and solid product that took a modern approach to light commercial vehicles' requirements of practicality, reliability and economy. The vehicle was restyled in 1990. The third generation was launched in 1994 with a real family of vehicles: some 500 versions differing by chassis, size and tonnage in order to respond effectively to different working requirements. With the market welcoming this development, commercial success was not long in coming. The specialist press acknowledged the innovation and customer-focused approach by awarding the Ducato the title ‘International Van of the Year 1994'. Another generation arrived in 2002: a flexible, dynamic and pleasant model for everyday use. It didn't veer too far from the looks and the philosophy of the previous model; its strength was simply having so many strengths. 2006 saw the launch of the fifth and most recent generation. It was totally innovative in all areas: from style to comfort, safety to driveability, practicality to performance, reliability to economy and versatility to productivity. There have also been cutting-edge engine solutions developed over the years which have pleasantly surprised customers in terms of technology, performance, reliability and competitiveness.

Here are some of the most significant launches:
- 1998: debut of the SOFIM 2.8 i.d. TD engine (122 HP and 285 Nm).
- 2000: 2.8 JTD Common Rail (127 HP and 300 Nm).
- 2002: 2.3 MultiJet (110 HP and 270 Nm) and dual-fuel methane/petrol Bi-power engine.
- 2004: 2.8 JTD Power "Common Rail" with variable geometry turbocharger (146 HP and 310 Nm).
- 2006: 2.2 MultiJet (100 HP and 250 Nm)
2.3 MultiJet (120/130 HP and 320 Nm)
3.0 MultiJet (157 HP and 400 Nm)

Sevel: the Ducato plant

Sevel (Società Europea Veicoli Leggeri) in Val di Sangro is the largest commercial vehicle factory in Europe for vehicles with GVWs from 2.8 to 3.5 tonnes. Built in 1981 to begin production of the Ducato, it is located in the province of Chieti, between Atessa and Paglieta, over an area of more than 1.2 million square metres (120 hectares), of which 344,000 (34 hectares) are covered, and it is equipped for the entire production cycle: bodywork, paintwork and assembly. Bodywork creates around 300 different chassis types, Paintwork uses around 120 colours and Assembly produces more than 6,000 versions (Fiat + PSA totals) and over 150 optional extras. These are big numbers, but they are justified by the varied needs of professionals and fleets. The Ducato can meet these requirements thanks to the flexibility of its factory. The Ducato remains one of the most popular and bestselling commercial vehicles in Europe partly because its factory has been able to grow, adapt and reinvent itself in parallel with changes to the product.