Van of the Year Award goes to PSA for new Partner, Berlingo and Combo

Groupe PSA has been rewarded the International Van of the Year 2018 Award at IAA Commercial Vehicles in Hanover, Germany. The car group won the award for its new generation of three vans: Peugeot Partner, Citroën Berlingo and Opel Combo.

The three LCV brothers are the result of a joint collaboration between all brands. The newest generation of Partner, Combo and Berlingo shows high level of safety and connectivity features like Overload Alert and Surround Rear Vision and for example the latest generation Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible infotainment, combined with an increased driver comfort. The new models offer a range of services for B2B customers, meeting high standards in terms of spaciousness and modularity, with a load capacity of 1,000 kg. To cover all customer needs, the van models will come in two lengths and will be available in 2-, 3- and 5- seater versions.It's clear that Groupe PSA has carefully listened to the needs of its LCV customers.

For Jarlath Sweeney, chairman of the jury, the new line-up is “the most significant small panel van development in years”. Commenting on the jury’s decision, he added: “The common programme to the four Brands of Groupe PSA, the Peugeot Partner, Citroën Berlingo van, Opel Combo and Vauxhall Combo, is well future-proofed, packed with technological advancements to aid the driver and financially benefit the owner or fleet manager. The creation of the overload alert system is a great initiative as it will ensure compliance and enhance safety. The availability of two wheelbase versions is another step forward as is the introduction of an all-wheel-drive variant, considering that an increasing number of utility companies are looking for 4x4 traction in a small van. All in all, an excellent package, well put together.”

“Groupe PSA is very proud to receive this prestigious international award, which comes in recognition of our expertise and the positioning of our line-up as the best on the market. With this new generation of compact vans, we have reached a critical new milestone in the renewal of our B2B range, in line with our ambitions for commercial vehicles as part of the Push to Pass strategic plan,” said Carlos Tavares, Chairman of the Groupe PSA Managing Board.