East Coast Fittings, a Leicestershire-based manufacturer and supplier of kitchen and bathroom furniture, have become the first customer to order the new lightweight Maxi-Low 3.5T van on contract hire from Leicester-based Alltruck.

East Coast Fittings have been operating for over 30 years and have 16 vehicles on contract hire from Alltruck plc, ranging from 3.5T – 18T and this is its first Maxi-Low vehicle.

Launched in 2012, Maxi-Low vehicles are made from lightweight polypropylene panels which deliver superior payload, durability and fuel efficiency.

The vehicle was built in Maxi-Low’s production facility at Allfleet Bodyshop Services in Loughborough.

The Maxi-Low standard 3.5T Luton offers a payload of up to 1400kg, which is a 350-400kg payload advantage compared to equivalent vehicles built using traditional GRP panels, claims the manufacturer.

Paul Robinson, managing director of Alltruck, said: “We pride ourselves on working closely with our customers to create the commercial vehicle solution which is right for their business.

“East Coast Fittings approached us looking for a solution which could help them stay within the 3.5T weight limit, whilst being able to obtain a higher payload than their existing home delivery vans could provide. The solution we presented was the Maxi-Low”.

Martin Gould, transport manager for East Coast Fittings, added: “The new Maxi-Low vehicle is another example of a long and successful business partnership with Alltruck.

“We are delighted with the new vehicle. Not only does it look great but the improved payload is a huge advantage given the types of heavy products which our home delivery fleet are carrying.”