The van accessories sector is evolving to keep pace with the changing design philosophy of commercial vehicles.

The increased efficiency and new design language of modern vans can be supported by well-designed accessories

Rhino Products, a leading European manufacturer of commercial vehicle accessories, said the rapid switch to sharper aesthetics, improved aerodynamics and electrified powertrains among the van sector has brought challenges for the sector.

But it added that the new design language of modern vans can be supported by well-designed accessories.

For example, as the auto industry moves to electrified powertrains, maximising fuel economy and battery range to meet new efficiency standards is more important than ever before.

But choosing the right van accessory can help to preserve these efficiency advantages for van users and fleets while ensuring they also are equipped to handle any job.

This includes by improving aerodynamics. Even if a van is designed to be streamlined, bulky accessories can increase drag, lowering fuel economy and range. Manufacturers of aftermarket accessories can combat this by ensuring that designs offer improved aerodynamics. For example, Rhino’s KammBar roof bar adopts a highly aerodynamically efficient teardrop shape, the Kamm-tail, which is synonymous with Formula 1 racing cars.

Roof racks can also be streamlined to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The use of nose cones at the front of the rack can greatly reduce wind resistance, helping to preserve vehicle efficiency. This delivers a sleek and functional design, such as found in Rhino’s AluminiumRack.

An alternative way to improve vehicle efficiency is to reduce weight. In the aftermarket sector, this can be done by using lightweight materials that deliver similar strength in application. As an example, using aluminium instead of steel for ladders installed on the rear of vans can deliver sizable weight savings – such as with Rhino’s AluminiumLadder, which has halved its overall weight (excluding fitting kit) compared to the previous steel design.

Finally, to preserve the enhanced aesthetics of today’s vans, manufacturers of aftermarket accessories are focusing on developing products that combine durability and functionality with good looks.

By enclosing unsightly lengthy materials such as pipe and plastic conduit secured to the top of a van, van users and fleets can transport these items without compromising the professional appearance of modern commercial vehicles. Rhino’s PipeTube Pro is an example, featuring a full-length PVC lining, an upgraded integral locking system and an added rubber seal. Streamlined roof racks such as the AluminiumRack can also offer improved aesthetics.