Fiat’s Ducato has morphed from a humble light commercial vehicle to a people-carrier – and just in time for the proposed changes to the taxi regulations.extraordinaire – and just in time for the proposed changes to the taxi regulations.content here
Fiat’s Ducato has morphed from a humble light commercial vehicle to a people-carrier – and just in time for the proposed changes to the taxi regulations.
Based on the Ducato range of commercial vehicles, the new model has been dubbed the Ducato Minibus and is available in two body styles with two engine configurations.
The standard 2,3 JTD has a seating capacity of 14, while the 2,8 JTD (with an extended wheelbase and raised roof) has a capacity of 16. A Code B (former Code eight) licence is required to operate the 2,3 JTD, while the 2,8 JTD requires a driver in possession of a Code C1 (former Code ten) licence.
The Ducato Minibus conversions have been created to provide an able people carrier with the capacity to meet passengers growing requirements.
The buses are customisable in a variety of ways, though basic conversion equipment includes imitation leather or fabric upholstery seat covers, lap safety belts for rear passengers and three-point seat belts for front passengers, interior grab handles and interior roof lights.
Buses are powered by two of Fiat’s common rail direct injection turbodiesel powerplants. The 2,3-litre has a maximum power output of 81 kW and peak torque of 270 N.m, while the 2,8-litre version produces maximum power of 94 kW at 3 600 r/min, and peak torque of 300 N.m at 1 800 r/min.
The latest Ducato comes standard with a new tool that allows for servicing to be managed according to the vehicle’s use. The driver is able to devise a customised service plan by selecting from a range of predetermined settings, including “distance travelled” and “time elapsed”.
When the ignition is on, the service indicator shows the number of kilometres to the next service in the instrument panel for a short while. As the service date approaches, the reading remains displayed. It begins to flash once the service deadline has elapsed, and indicates how many kilometres have been covered since the service due date.
Recommended pricing for the Ducato range of minibuses will range based on the specified conversions. However, the price of the 2,8 JTD Maxi panel van with the basic 16-seater conversion is R 250 000, while the 2,3 JTD 15 panel van with the basic 14-seater conversion is R 229 000.
All vans are covered by Fiat Auto South Africa’s 24 month / unlimited mileage manufacturer warranty that can be extended by an additional 12 months or up to 100 000 km. There is a 12-month warranty on workmanship with converter Angelo Kater Motor Trimmers, and all models are covered by 24-hour AA Fleetcare roadside assistance for 12 months.
