06 March 2024

Van Speech – Made Simple!

A plain-English guide to common van acronyms and jargon in listings (ABS, ESP, L3H3, GVW, DPF, ULEZ and more), plus a worked example.

FOR SALE: “Transit T350, L3H3, Euro 5, ABS, ESP, EBA, EBD, ROM, HLA, LAC, FWD, Deadlocks, FSH, VGC, Frozen White, Manual 6-Speed, 125PS, 2.2 litre Duratorq TDCi with cDPF, Long MoT.”

Translation: Ford Transit 3.5t long-wheelbase, high-roof Euro-5 van with ABS, stability control, braking aids, front-wheel drive, security deadlocks, Frozen White paint, six-speed manual gearbox, 125PS 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine with DPF, and a long MoT

No wonder the vehicle manufacturing industry has adopted so many acronyms (an abbreviation formed from the initial letters of words and pronounced as a word) - even the explanation needs an explanation!

Take a look at our vast stock list of quality used commercial vehicles and you're bound to come across the odd phrase, abbreviation or capitalisation you're not familiar with.

Here’s our glossary of ‘Van Speech’ terms and their plain-English meanings:

ABS - Anti-lock braking system.
Air Con / A/C - Air conditioning.
ASR - Anti-slip regulation (traction control).
Auto - Automatic transmission.
AWD - All-wheel drive / 4x4.
Barn Doors - Twin rear doors opening sideways.
BAS - Hydraulic brake assist system.
Beavertail - Truck with ramps and angled rear end for plant machinery.
Bluetooth- Hands-free phone connection.
Box Van - Square box-body van (often called a Luton).
Bulkhead- Partition between cab and load area.
CAZ- Clean Air Zone (charges in some UK cities).
CBC - Cornering Brake Control.
Climate - Climate control air conditioning.
COIF - Certificate of Initial Fitness for PSV vehicles.
Crew Cab - Two rows of seats in the cab.
Cruise - Cruise control (often with speed limiter).
Curtain-Sider - Box van with curtain sides for access.
Deadlocks - Extra key-operated door locks.
DPF - Diesel Particulate Filter. Learn more.
Dropside - Open bed with folding side panels.
Double Cab - Four-door cab with second row of seats.
EBA - Emergency Brake Assist.
EBD - Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
ECO - Eco mode / stop-start system.
EDC - Engine Drag Control.
EDL - Electronic Differential Lock.
EF - Extended frame (extra-long body).
ELWB - Extra-long wheelbase (e.g. Transit Jumbo).
EM / EHM / EHFM - Electric mirrors / heated mirrors / heated folding mirrors.
ESP - Electronic Stability Programme (ESC).
EW - Electric windows.
Euro 5 / Euro 6 - Exhaust emissions standards.
Frail - External racking for glass carrying.
FSH - Full Service History.
FWD / RWD - Front-wheel drive / rear-wheel drive.
GVW - Gross Vehicle Weight (vehicle + max load).
HLA - Hill Launch Assist.
L1H1 / L2H2 / L3H3 - Van length/height codes (SWB–MWB–LWB; low/medium/high roof).
LAC - Load Adaptive Control.
LEZ / ULEZ - London (Ultra) Low Emission Zone.
LGV - Light Goods Vehicle (≤3.5t) or Large Goods Vehicle (>3.5t).
Lined / Ply-Lined - Load area lined with protective panels.
LOLER - Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations certification.
Luton - 3.5t box van with body over cab.
LWB / MWB / SWB / XLWB - Long / Medium / Short / Extra-long wheelbase.
MEWP - Mobile Elevating Work Platform (cherry picker).
MoT - Annual roadworthiness test (vehicles >3 years old).
Panel Van - Standard enclosed “Transit-style” van.
Parking - Parking sensors or system.
PAS - Power Assisted Steering.<

28 August 2025

DPFs What Drivers Need to Know About Diesel Particulate Filters

The majority of drivers are in the dark about what Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF's) actually do, why they do it - and how to maintain and extend their serviceable life.

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25 August 2025

Driving in Central London

In 2003, the London Congestion Charge (LCC) was introduced to try and alleviate traffic-jams and snarl-ups in the centre of the City and to reduce air pollution for both city residents and visitors alike. Since then, anyone driving in the Congestion Charge Area has been required to pay a Congestion Charge fee.

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01 April 2025

Built-in Racking and Shelving

The article highlights the benefits of installing built-in racking and shelving systems in vans. It addresses common frustrations for tradespeople, such as lost tools, unsecured equipment, and wasted time searching the cargo area. Professional racking improves organisation, efficiency, and safety by securing tools, reducing wear and tear, protecting van interiors, and even saving fuel through weight reduction. Modern systems are lightweight, easy to install without drilling, and comply with safety standards. The piece also stresses the importance of safety, as unsecured tools can cause serious injury during sharp braking or accidents. Maun Motors emphasises that many of their quality used vans already come fitted with racking systems and provides links to search for such vehicles, alongside related reading on van safety and maintenance.

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01 April 2025

Plywood Lining Your Van

The post explains the importance and advantages of ply-lining a van. Ply-lining involves fitting protective wooden panels to the interior of a van’s load space, safeguarding the bodywork from dents, scratches, and other damage caused by shifting tools or cargo. This not only extends the life of the van and maintains its resale value but also creates a professional, tidy appearance for tradespeople. The article highlights how ply-lining can be customised to fit different vans and requirements, while also providing a solid base for adding shelving or racking systems. Maun Motors notes that many of their vans are already ply-lined and ready for use, offering added convenience and long-term savings for customers.

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01 April 2025

Air Conditioning in Vans & Commercial Vehicles

The article looks at the benefits of air conditioning in vans and commercial vehicles, moving beyond the common view that it’s just a “luxury”. It explains how air conditioning improves driver comfort and concentration, reduces fatigue, and contributes to overall safety on the road. The system also helps demist windscreens quickly in damp or cold conditions, improving visibility. For businesses, having air conditioning can enhance the professional image of their vehicles and even increase resale value. Maun Motors highlights that many of their quality used vans are fitted with air conditioning and provides links to search their stock for vehicles with this feature.

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01 April 2025

Buying a Van with High Mileage

This post provides guidance on whether buying a high-mileage van is a good idea, helping buyers make informed decisions. It explains that while high mileage can sometimes be seen as a negative, it doesn’t necessarily mean poor condition if the vehicle has been well maintained. The article covers key factors to consider, including full service history, type of mileage (motorway vs local), how the van has been used, and signs of wear and tear. It stresses the importance of professional checks, MOT records, and overall condition over mileage alone. The piece reassures readers that a high-mileage van can offer good value for money if carefully chosen, and reminds them that Maun Motors regularly stocks quality used vans with a range of mileages to suit different needs.

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01 April 2025

Branding Your Van

The article explores the benefits of branding a van with signwriting, vinyl wraps or decals, showing how it can turn a commercial vehicle into a moving advertisement. It highlights that van branding is a cost-effective marketing tool, reaching thousands of potential customers daily while reinforcing professionalism and brand recognition. The post explains the different options available, from simple vinyl lettering to full wraps, and stresses the importance of clear, consistent designs that reflect a business’s identity. It also notes practical benefits, such as paintwork protection from vinyl, and reminds readers that many Maun Motors vans are available ready for branding to suit a company’s needs.

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06 March 2024

Steve's Dream Machine

South Yorkshire motorcycling enthusiast Steve Vaughan transformed a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter into his dream motorhome, complete with a huge rear cargo space to carry his beloved bikes. Working with Motorcraft Conversions and design input from his wife, Tina, the van was fitted with a stylish interior featuring all the comforts of home, from a full kitchen and bathroom to solar panels and exterior BBQ connections. With plans to tour across Europe, Steve and Tina now have a bespoke “Dream Machine” that blends practicality, luxury, and passion for motorcycling.

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Van Speech – Made Simple!

DPFs What Drivers Need to Know About Diesel Particulate Filters

Driving in Central London

Built-in Racking and Shelving

Plywood Lining Your Van

Air Conditioning in Vans & Commercial Vehicles

Buying a Van with High Mileage

Branding Your Van

Steve's Dream Machine

Financial Conduct Authority

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