The BMW brand has until now been far removed from the light commercial vehicle world, but at this year's show, its MINI subsidiary was there to show of the new Mini Clubvan.

Three vehicles were on display, one for the butcher, baker and candlestick maker, in a stylish setting featuring old-fashioned shopfronts.

The new van has a 500kg payload and a load volume of 0.86 cubic metres.

Mini is offering a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel: the 98bhp One, the 122bhp Cooper and the 112bhp Cooper D, the latter achieving 72.4mpg on the combined cycle.

Mini is expecting the Clubvan to appeal to “lifestyle focused” businesses, and for whom, perhaps, the distinctive Mini could be an extra marketing tool.

By Trevor Gehlcken