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Hi
Having read a number of threads/posts recently, being new to all this I’m finding myself having to pop off to Google to learn a new word / term / acronym so I know what the hell’s going on .. ACC, DSG, PQ, 7E, MFSW, LIN, CAN, T32, Loom, MFD, AdBlue SCR, etc..
Now, for those of you in the know, you will have translated the above instantly as you passed over them, but for others (like me) I’m back in GCSE French, trying to find our way to the bibilo-tech.. To try and address this, I found this online, which covers the basics - VW Technical Glossary & Vocabulary | VW Vans - but was wondering if there were other you are aware of, that would help educate us noobs.. If not, I found these online as the basics, but obviously for VW and the Transporter, we open ourselves up to some very specific terms, which with your help, I’m happy to add to the following ..
4MOTION
The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system reduces wheel spin in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, mud or gravel. It reacts to wheel spin in just milliseconds, sending power to the wheels with most grip, so ensuring better road holding and improved safety.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
A safety feature present in all modern cars. ABS ensures that, during sudden braking, the wheels do not lock up. This helps tyres to maintain their grip on the road, which improves vehicle stability and assists the car in braking more safely. If you have noticed an ABS warning light on your dashboard, it could indicate that the ABS is faulty or deactivated.
AC (Air Conditioning)
A vehicle air conditioning system maintains comfortable interior temperatures by cooling the air which is pumped in through vents. This feature is incorporated into most modern cars as standard.
Accessories
Our range of Volkswagen-approved accessories are available to buy and be fitted at your Van Centre. Whether you want to add style or technology, we've got lots of extras for you.
There are big advantages to keeping your accessories 100% Volkswagen. They're a perfect match for fit and style, and developed to be as rugged and reliable as your vehicle.
Most include a two year warranty and if you order and fit them at the time of purchasing a new vehicle, we may be able to extend that to three years to match your vehicle's warranty. Take a look at the full range of accessories
Active Rollover Protection (ARP)
As part of the ESP system, Active Rollover Protection (ARP) recognises an impending rollover and rapidly applies braking to selective wheels to reduce the likelihood of it happening. Especially useful on a vehicle with a high centre of gravity such as a van. ARP detects excessive lateral force if, for example, a van is driven too fast into a corner, which could cause a rollover.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Adaptive Cruise Control helps avoid accidents by keeping your vehicle a safe distance from the traffic ahead. It uses the radar-controlled Front Assist area monitoring system with City Emergency Braking system to detect traffic ahead, adjusting your speed to maintain a constant safe gap between you and the vehicle in front. If you get too close, audio and visual signals will be displayed, and if necessary, emergency braking triggered.
Anti-Lock Braking
It can be very challenging to stop a van on a slippery road. Anti-Lock Braking (ABS) takes the effort and stress out of this situation. The theory is simple - a wheel that is locked and skidding has far less grip than a wheel that is not. ABS stops the wheels skidding while you slowdown, which means you slow faster and can still steer as you come to a stop.
App-Connect
App-Connect is part of Car-Net and seamlessly connects your smartphone to your infotainment system touchscreen, via the MirrorLink™, Apple CarPlay™ and Google Android Auto™ apps.
AUX (Auxiliary Port)
An auxiliary port refers to a car audio system’s in-built jack or port which allows any device to connect, as long as it possesses the standard headphone connection. This enables a motorist to easily channel their device’s audio output through the vehicle speakers.
BHP (Brake Horsepower)
BHP is a way of referring to the amount of power that a car engine can produce. Brake horsepower tells you how much work an engine can do, while still considering any power loss brought on by braking or friction. Generally speaking, the higher the BHP, the greater the engine’s power.
BlueMotion models
A van with the BlueMotion badge meant that its design and specification were optimised to reduce weight and improve aerodynamics for fuel efficiency. Volkswagen no longer produces BlueMotion models as most BlueMotion technology features are now fitted as standard.
Brake Assist System (BAS)
Our Brake Assist System (BAS) is designed to help in emergency braking situations. This safety function can substantially shorten your car's stopping distance. The system detects that full braking power is needed and automatically boosts the brake pressure up to the ABS threshold, and continues to do so whilst you keep the brake pedal pressed down. If you then ease off the pedal, the system will reduce the brake pressure again to match the brake pedal's position.
Bulkhead
As well as safeguarding your goods, the addition of a bulkhead will protect you and any passengers from the danger of loads shifting too far forward when you brake.
Car-Net
Car-Net is Volkswagen's solution to internet connectivity in your vehicle. It covers Guide & Inform to enhance your vehicle's optional Discover Media navigation system with online-based, up-to-date information services for greater convenience when travelling. You can utilise real-time traffic information to avoid a sudden traffic jam, refuel at the cheapest petrol station and find a free parking space without the need for an infuriating search. It helps you to reach your destination quickly and with the least amount of stress. Car-Net Guide & Inform is an option available free for three years.
Another element of Car-Net is App-Connect, which seamlessly connects your smartphone to your infotainment system touchscreen, via MirrorLink™, Apple CarPlay™ and Google Android Auto™ apps.
City Emergency Braking
Driving around town there’s an increased number of hazards to avoid. The City Emergency Braking System is an innovative technology that helps avoid collisions under these conditions. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) also includes the Front Assist area monitoring system with City Emergency Braking System. Automatically activated at speeds under 18 mph, this system detects critical distances, warns of hazardous situations and triggers emergency braking if the driver fails to brake and a collision is imminent. This can reduce the severity of an accident and even avoid a crash.
DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting)
A digital radio is common in most modern vehicles, and works to broadcast the radio via digital means rather than by an analogue signal. This grants a motorist access to a wider range of radio stations on a national level, and generally experiences less interference than its analogue cousin.
DAB+
DAB+ is the new way to receive radio without noise interference and loss of sound quality. On top of FM stations, there's a wider selection of additional digital stations available, giving you more choice to suit your own particular interests. There’s also no need to remember frequencies - you can just use the radio station names. All DAB+ radios have an LCD display showing the station you're listening to.
Daytime Running Lights
Daytime running lights offer extra safety. Fifty per cent of all daytime accidents at junctions are caused by drivers not seeing other road users in time. Road safety experts recommend switching on dipped-beam headlights during the day, or the use of additional daytime running lights. For extra driver convenience, our dipped-beam headlights are automatically switched on when you start your vehicle.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system removes particulates from diesel exhausts, making a major contribution to the reduction of particulate contaminants in the environment.
Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG)
Our dual clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG) can be used as a fully automatic gearbox, or as a responsive quick-shift manual. The innovative dual clutch system facilitates an instant gear change, whilst helping to maintain swift and smooth progress.
Double cab
Sometimes you need room for all your equipment and your crew, which is where our double cab vehicles come in. Our Crafter double cabs have seven seats and a longer wheelbase. Alternatively, our Amarok is a double-cab pickup capable of transporting both crew and equipment even on the most rugged terrain.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
A feature fitted exclusively to diesel cars. Diesel particulate filters were introduced in 2009 with the purpose of reducing engine particles, such as soot, from entering the wider atmosphere. These particles are harmful to humans, animals and the environment, so the introduction of DPFs was a vital step in combatting their expulsion from diesel vehicles.
Driver Alert
Overtired drivers cause up to 25 per cent of motorway accidents. Our new Driver Alert System gives an early warning for when you need a break and makes motorway driving safer. It works by carefully monitoring driver behaviour, tracking wheel movements and lane deviations - so it can judge when you start to feel sleepy. If the system senses you starting to lose concentration, it will alert you with a warning sound via the dashboard visual display.
Dropside
If you prefer open spaces and open vans, a Crafter Dropside is for you. Power and comfort join forces with build quality and flexibility to make this a winning combination. Simply choose the wheelbase that works for you.
DVSA (Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency)
Part of the UK Department for Transport, the DVSA is an agency which sets the standards for safe driving in the country. Their responsibilities, among many others, include conducting driving tests, approving people to become driving instructors and also MOT testers, and carrying out checks to ensure that any buses or lorries are roadworthy and safe to drive. They are also responsible for the evaluation of vehicle recalls and will also carry out roadside checks on vehicles.
ECU (Engine Control Unit)
An ECU is essentially a device which controls a specific function, and a car may possess multiple ECUs to control different aspects of the car – ranging from steering control all the way to airbags and door locks. Most ECUs feature specific software which reads inputs from the vehicle in order to perform its designated function, and in this way, a car’s network of Engine Control Units can be seen as the vehicle’s brain.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) uses ABS sensors on the driven wheels to determine if one wheel if spinning faster than the others. It uses the ABS system to momentarily apply braking to balance out the traction needs of the driven wheels. Front-wheel drive vehicles usually have the most recognisable feel, as they produce the typical ABS-type pulsating sound and feel when they're activated during a wheel spin.
Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP)
ESP improves a vehicle's stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction (skidding). When ESP detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go. Braking is automatically applied to wheels individually, such as the outer front wheel to counter over steer or the inner rear wheel to counter understeer.
Emissions standards
European Union (EU) legislation sets out exhaust emissions standards for new vehicles sold in the EU. They govern the limits on pollutants emitted in vehicle exhaust gas (sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and diesel exhaust particulates). Since September 2015, all passenger carrying vehicles must be registered as Euro 6, and Commercial vehicles since September 2016.
A single vehicle representative of a particular range is tested, either by independent test organisations or the manufacturers or importers and the results verified by the DfT. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has now developed vehicles meeting Euro 6 standards most of our range
Engine Braking Control (EBC)
Engine Braking Control (EBC) prevents the driven wheels from locking owing to the braking effect of the engine when the accelerator pedal is suddenly released, or the vehicle is braked with a gear engaged.
EV (Electric Vehicles)
Electric vehicles are powered by electricity. EVs are quickly growing in popularity as they do not produce the harmful emissions of gas and diesel engines, making them a more eco-friendly choice for motorists. They are usually fitted with a type of fuel cell or battery which must be charged up for the engine to power up.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
A well-known global navigation system. GPS technology is incorporated into many modern vehicles to inform motorists of the location of the vehicle – this is not only useful when driving, but is also a superb security feature for tracking the location of a stolen vehicle.
ICE (Internal Combustion Engine)
An ICE is a standard vehicle engine that powers diesel and petrol cars. It was invented over 100 years ago and works by burning fossil fuels to generate its energy. Many world leaders are gradually moving away from the manufacture and sale of ICE vehicles, and phasing in greener alternatives, such as electric cars, for the benefit of the planet.
Kombi
Our Transporter Kombi and Caddy Kombi have both been designed with practicality, flexibility and comfort in mind. There's plenty of room for you, your crew and equipment. And in the TransporterKombi, you've got the added flexibility of five or six seat options, four TDI engines, two wheelbase lengths and three roof height options. Not just a great people carrier, the Kombi holds its own on the road.
Lane Change Assist - Side Scan
Available as an option, Side Scan displays a warning signal on the exterior mirror as soon as one of its sensors detects a vehicle in a blind spot during a lane change.
LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle)
An LCV is any commercial vehicle which weighs in at 3500kg or less. Most commonly this refers to vans and pickups.
MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
MHEVs are cars which are fitted with a standard internal combustion engine that partners up with a small battery pack. This electric battery will assist with smaller manoeuvres, such as pulling away, which helps to lessen the burden on the combustion engine, thus saving fuel. However, as the name suggests, the influence of the electric battery component is only mild, and therefore these vehicles cannot run on electricity alone – the combustion engine still does most of the work.
MPG (Miles Per Gallon)
MPG is a measure of a car’s fuel economy that tells you how far a vehicle is able to travel on one gallon of fuel. This can help buyers to work out how expensive a certain car will be to run based on how much fuel it’s likely to consume over certain mileages.
MPH (Miles Per Hour)
A common measurement of a vehicle’s speed. UK speed limits are always expressed in miles per hour.
OBD (On-Board Diagnostics)
On-board diagnostics refers to a computer system built into a vehicle which monitors the overall health of the machine via a network of sensors. Once a fault has been identified, the system alerts the driver to minimise delays in the correction of any problems.
ODO (Odometer)
An odometer tracks the distance travelled by a vehicle and is usually displayed on the vehicle dashboard. They measure distance in miles.
Passive Safety
Passive safety refers to measures that help protect the occupants against injury or help reduce injury severity in the event of an accident. Passive safety measures include the safety belt system, the airbags*, the rigid occupant cell and the crumple zones at the front of the vehicle. Safety features built into the body, front and rear, help to dissipate most of the impact energy. All of these elements help to provide excellent all-round protection.
* Airbags are supplemental restraint systems only and will not deploy under all accident circumstances. Always use seat belts and child seating appropriate for their size and age. All child seating must satisfy the current legislation standards.
Payload
Payload is related to gross vehicle weight. Payload capacity is the weight the vehicle is able to carry but does not include the weight of the vehicle itself.
PCP (Personal Contract Purchase)
PCP is a type of vehicle financing that is designed to make it easier to purchase a car when full funds are lacking. PCPs are loans that require you to pay a 10% deposit on the value of the car at the very beginning. This type of loan has many facets to it, and can be viewed as more of a long-term rental than a full purchase, as many who take out a PCP don’t always end up with full ownership of a car – this depends on what course of action you take once the contract is up.
PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
A plug-in hybrid vehicle combines a standard combustion engine with a large electric battery, creating a ‘hybrid’ vehicle. Because the battery in a PHEV is quite large, longer distances can be travelled on the electric battery before the fuel engine has to kick in to help. This car type is seen as a good stepping stone between a full combustion engine and a full electric vehicle.
Pick-up
When you need a hard-working pick-up with power and intelligence, you'll find the perfect combination in our Amarok.
Rear-view Camera
The rear-view camera gives you an optimised view of the area behind your vehicle. The system utilises the screen integrated into the media system which helps you navigate a safe route when reversing.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
RPM is a term that refers to how quickly a car is operating by measuring how many ‘rotations’ the engine makes within one minute. This information can be useful in diagnostic situations, as the RPM can relay important information about a vehicle’s efficiency and overall performance.
SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)
If you own a vehicle that you no longer wish to drive or park on public roads, you can apply for a SORN. Once approved, you won’t have to pay tax on this vehicle. As long as a SORN is in place, you will be disallowed from driving or parking it on public roads.
Stop/Start
Automatically turns the engine off when you stop and engage neutral. As soon as it's time to move, the engine starts up again. A simple, but highly-effective system.
SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
An SUV is a typically larger, taller and bulkier car with bigger wheels that can withstand being driven on a variety of tough terrains, and gives greater performance in all weathers. They are also usually more spacious and possess a larger boot.
TDI
The latest generation Euro 6 TDI and BiTDI common-rail diesel engines provide excellent economy and an abundance of usable torque. Both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced without sacrificing the driving dynamics.
Tipper
With a tough steel platform, one tonne load lashing points and an Ingimex Titan tipper body, our robust Crafter Tipper is hard to beat, whatever you need to offload.
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
A TPMS is an important in-built safety feature which alerts a driver if a tyre is under-inflated. By doing so, the driver can avoid travelling on a potentially dangerous under-inflated tyre and instead quickly resolve the issue.
Traction Control System (TCS)
Traction control helps to limit tyre slip under acceleration on slippery surfaces, thus helping the driver to retain proper control. Using sensors at each wheel, the system recognises when traction has been lost and momentarily applies braking to that wheel to help it regain grip. Traction control does not increase traction though; it simply attempts to stop a vehicle's wheels spinning.
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
A VIN is a unique number given to every vehicle in order to identify it. The VIN is given to a car on the production line and cannot be changed – the number can be found in multiple locations throughout a car, including in the engine bay. The VIN is important because it allows vehicles to be tracked easily by the police in criminal and other types of situations, or to establish ownership of a vehicle.
Volkswagen Crafter conversions
Our Volkswagen Crafter conversions offer a more bespoke vehicle solution. We work in partnership with our recognised converter, Ingimex, to create high quality and durable Crafter Dropside, Tipper and Luton variations.
Having read a number of threads/posts recently, being new to all this I’m finding myself having to pop off to Google to learn a new word / term / acronym so I know what the hell’s going on .. ACC, DSG, PQ, 7E, MFSW, LIN, CAN, T32, Loom, MFD, AdBlue SCR, etc..
Now, for those of you in the know, you will have translated the above instantly as you passed over them, but for others (like me) I’m back in GCSE French, trying to find our way to the bibilo-tech.. To try and address this, I found this online, which covers the basics - VW Technical Glossary & Vocabulary | VW Vans - but was wondering if there were other you are aware of, that would help educate us noobs.. If not, I found these online as the basics, but obviously for VW and the Transporter, we open ourselves up to some very specific terms, which with your help, I’m happy to add to the following ..
4MOTION
The 4MOTION all-wheel drive system reduces wheel spin in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, mud or gravel. It reacts to wheel spin in just milliseconds, sending power to the wheels with most grip, so ensuring better road holding and improved safety.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
A safety feature present in all modern cars. ABS ensures that, during sudden braking, the wheels do not lock up. This helps tyres to maintain their grip on the road, which improves vehicle stability and assists the car in braking more safely. If you have noticed an ABS warning light on your dashboard, it could indicate that the ABS is faulty or deactivated.
AC (Air Conditioning)
A vehicle air conditioning system maintains comfortable interior temperatures by cooling the air which is pumped in through vents. This feature is incorporated into most modern cars as standard.
Accessories
Our range of Volkswagen-approved accessories are available to buy and be fitted at your Van Centre. Whether you want to add style or technology, we've got lots of extras for you.
There are big advantages to keeping your accessories 100% Volkswagen. They're a perfect match for fit and style, and developed to be as rugged and reliable as your vehicle.
Most include a two year warranty and if you order and fit them at the time of purchasing a new vehicle, we may be able to extend that to three years to match your vehicle's warranty. Take a look at the full range of accessories
Active Rollover Protection (ARP)
As part of the ESP system, Active Rollover Protection (ARP) recognises an impending rollover and rapidly applies braking to selective wheels to reduce the likelihood of it happening. Especially useful on a vehicle with a high centre of gravity such as a van. ARP detects excessive lateral force if, for example, a van is driven too fast into a corner, which could cause a rollover.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Adaptive Cruise Control helps avoid accidents by keeping your vehicle a safe distance from the traffic ahead. It uses the radar-controlled Front Assist area monitoring system with City Emergency Braking system to detect traffic ahead, adjusting your speed to maintain a constant safe gap between you and the vehicle in front. If you get too close, audio and visual signals will be displayed, and if necessary, emergency braking triggered.
Anti-Lock Braking
It can be very challenging to stop a van on a slippery road. Anti-Lock Braking (ABS) takes the effort and stress out of this situation. The theory is simple - a wheel that is locked and skidding has far less grip than a wheel that is not. ABS stops the wheels skidding while you slowdown, which means you slow faster and can still steer as you come to a stop.
App-Connect
App-Connect is part of Car-Net and seamlessly connects your smartphone to your infotainment system touchscreen, via the MirrorLink™, Apple CarPlay™ and Google Android Auto™ apps.
AUX (Auxiliary Port)
An auxiliary port refers to a car audio system’s in-built jack or port which allows any device to connect, as long as it possesses the standard headphone connection. This enables a motorist to easily channel their device’s audio output through the vehicle speakers.
BHP (Brake Horsepower)
BHP is a way of referring to the amount of power that a car engine can produce. Brake horsepower tells you how much work an engine can do, while still considering any power loss brought on by braking or friction. Generally speaking, the higher the BHP, the greater the engine’s power.
BlueMotion models
A van with the BlueMotion badge meant that its design and specification were optimised to reduce weight and improve aerodynamics for fuel efficiency. Volkswagen no longer produces BlueMotion models as most BlueMotion technology features are now fitted as standard.
Brake Assist System (BAS)
Our Brake Assist System (BAS) is designed to help in emergency braking situations. This safety function can substantially shorten your car's stopping distance. The system detects that full braking power is needed and automatically boosts the brake pressure up to the ABS threshold, and continues to do so whilst you keep the brake pedal pressed down. If you then ease off the pedal, the system will reduce the brake pressure again to match the brake pedal's position.
Bulkhead
As well as safeguarding your goods, the addition of a bulkhead will protect you and any passengers from the danger of loads shifting too far forward when you brake.
Car-Net
Car-Net is Volkswagen's solution to internet connectivity in your vehicle. It covers Guide & Inform to enhance your vehicle's optional Discover Media navigation system with online-based, up-to-date information services for greater convenience when travelling. You can utilise real-time traffic information to avoid a sudden traffic jam, refuel at the cheapest petrol station and find a free parking space without the need for an infuriating search. It helps you to reach your destination quickly and with the least amount of stress. Car-Net Guide & Inform is an option available free for three years.
Another element of Car-Net is App-Connect, which seamlessly connects your smartphone to your infotainment system touchscreen, via MirrorLink™, Apple CarPlay™ and Google Android Auto™ apps.
City Emergency Braking
Driving around town there’s an increased number of hazards to avoid. The City Emergency Braking System is an innovative technology that helps avoid collisions under these conditions. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) also includes the Front Assist area monitoring system with City Emergency Braking System. Automatically activated at speeds under 18 mph, this system detects critical distances, warns of hazardous situations and triggers emergency braking if the driver fails to brake and a collision is imminent. This can reduce the severity of an accident and even avoid a crash.
DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting)
A digital radio is common in most modern vehicles, and works to broadcast the radio via digital means rather than by an analogue signal. This grants a motorist access to a wider range of radio stations on a national level, and generally experiences less interference than its analogue cousin.
DAB+
DAB+ is the new way to receive radio without noise interference and loss of sound quality. On top of FM stations, there's a wider selection of additional digital stations available, giving you more choice to suit your own particular interests. There’s also no need to remember frequencies - you can just use the radio station names. All DAB+ radios have an LCD display showing the station you're listening to.
Daytime Running Lights
Daytime running lights offer extra safety. Fifty per cent of all daytime accidents at junctions are caused by drivers not seeing other road users in time. Road safety experts recommend switching on dipped-beam headlights during the day, or the use of additional daytime running lights. For extra driver convenience, our dipped-beam headlights are automatically switched on when you start your vehicle.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system removes particulates from diesel exhausts, making a major contribution to the reduction of particulate contaminants in the environment.
Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG)
Our dual clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG) can be used as a fully automatic gearbox, or as a responsive quick-shift manual. The innovative dual clutch system facilitates an instant gear change, whilst helping to maintain swift and smooth progress.
Double cab
Sometimes you need room for all your equipment and your crew, which is where our double cab vehicles come in. Our Crafter double cabs have seven seats and a longer wheelbase. Alternatively, our Amarok is a double-cab pickup capable of transporting both crew and equipment even on the most rugged terrain.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
A feature fitted exclusively to diesel cars. Diesel particulate filters were introduced in 2009 with the purpose of reducing engine particles, such as soot, from entering the wider atmosphere. These particles are harmful to humans, animals and the environment, so the introduction of DPFs was a vital step in combatting their expulsion from diesel vehicles.
Driver Alert
Overtired drivers cause up to 25 per cent of motorway accidents. Our new Driver Alert System gives an early warning for when you need a break and makes motorway driving safer. It works by carefully monitoring driver behaviour, tracking wheel movements and lane deviations - so it can judge when you start to feel sleepy. If the system senses you starting to lose concentration, it will alert you with a warning sound via the dashboard visual display.
Dropside
If you prefer open spaces and open vans, a Crafter Dropside is for you. Power and comfort join forces with build quality and flexibility to make this a winning combination. Simply choose the wheelbase that works for you.
DVSA (Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency)
Part of the UK Department for Transport, the DVSA is an agency which sets the standards for safe driving in the country. Their responsibilities, among many others, include conducting driving tests, approving people to become driving instructors and also MOT testers, and carrying out checks to ensure that any buses or lorries are roadworthy and safe to drive. They are also responsible for the evaluation of vehicle recalls and will also carry out roadside checks on vehicles.
ECU (Engine Control Unit)
An ECU is essentially a device which controls a specific function, and a car may possess multiple ECUs to control different aspects of the car – ranging from steering control all the way to airbags and door locks. Most ECUs feature specific software which reads inputs from the vehicle in order to perform its designated function, and in this way, a car’s network of Engine Control Units can be seen as the vehicle’s brain.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) uses ABS sensors on the driven wheels to determine if one wheel if spinning faster than the others. It uses the ABS system to momentarily apply braking to balance out the traction needs of the driven wheels. Front-wheel drive vehicles usually have the most recognisable feel, as they produce the typical ABS-type pulsating sound and feel when they're activated during a wheel spin.
Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP)
ESP improves a vehicle's stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction (skidding). When ESP detects loss of steering control, it automatically applies the brakes to help "steer" the vehicle where the driver intends to go. Braking is automatically applied to wheels individually, such as the outer front wheel to counter over steer or the inner rear wheel to counter understeer.
Emissions standards
European Union (EU) legislation sets out exhaust emissions standards for new vehicles sold in the EU. They govern the limits on pollutants emitted in vehicle exhaust gas (sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and diesel exhaust particulates). Since September 2015, all passenger carrying vehicles must be registered as Euro 6, and Commercial vehicles since September 2016.
A single vehicle representative of a particular range is tested, either by independent test organisations or the manufacturers or importers and the results verified by the DfT. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has now developed vehicles meeting Euro 6 standards most of our range
Engine Braking Control (EBC)
Engine Braking Control (EBC) prevents the driven wheels from locking owing to the braking effect of the engine when the accelerator pedal is suddenly released, or the vehicle is braked with a gear engaged.
EV (Electric Vehicles)
Electric vehicles are powered by electricity. EVs are quickly growing in popularity as they do not produce the harmful emissions of gas and diesel engines, making them a more eco-friendly choice for motorists. They are usually fitted with a type of fuel cell or battery which must be charged up for the engine to power up.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
A well-known global navigation system. GPS technology is incorporated into many modern vehicles to inform motorists of the location of the vehicle – this is not only useful when driving, but is also a superb security feature for tracking the location of a stolen vehicle.
ICE (Internal Combustion Engine)
An ICE is a standard vehicle engine that powers diesel and petrol cars. It was invented over 100 years ago and works by burning fossil fuels to generate its energy. Many world leaders are gradually moving away from the manufacture and sale of ICE vehicles, and phasing in greener alternatives, such as electric cars, for the benefit of the planet.
Kombi
Our Transporter Kombi and Caddy Kombi have both been designed with practicality, flexibility and comfort in mind. There's plenty of room for you, your crew and equipment. And in the TransporterKombi, you've got the added flexibility of five or six seat options, four TDI engines, two wheelbase lengths and three roof height options. Not just a great people carrier, the Kombi holds its own on the road.
Lane Change Assist - Side Scan
Available as an option, Side Scan displays a warning signal on the exterior mirror as soon as one of its sensors detects a vehicle in a blind spot during a lane change.
LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle)
An LCV is any commercial vehicle which weighs in at 3500kg or less. Most commonly this refers to vans and pickups.
MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
MHEVs are cars which are fitted with a standard internal combustion engine that partners up with a small battery pack. This electric battery will assist with smaller manoeuvres, such as pulling away, which helps to lessen the burden on the combustion engine, thus saving fuel. However, as the name suggests, the influence of the electric battery component is only mild, and therefore these vehicles cannot run on electricity alone – the combustion engine still does most of the work.
MPG (Miles Per Gallon)
MPG is a measure of a car’s fuel economy that tells you how far a vehicle is able to travel on one gallon of fuel. This can help buyers to work out how expensive a certain car will be to run based on how much fuel it’s likely to consume over certain mileages.
MPH (Miles Per Hour)
A common measurement of a vehicle’s speed. UK speed limits are always expressed in miles per hour.
OBD (On-Board Diagnostics)
On-board diagnostics refers to a computer system built into a vehicle which monitors the overall health of the machine via a network of sensors. Once a fault has been identified, the system alerts the driver to minimise delays in the correction of any problems.
ODO (Odometer)
An odometer tracks the distance travelled by a vehicle and is usually displayed on the vehicle dashboard. They measure distance in miles.
Passive Safety
Passive safety refers to measures that help protect the occupants against injury or help reduce injury severity in the event of an accident. Passive safety measures include the safety belt system, the airbags*, the rigid occupant cell and the crumple zones at the front of the vehicle. Safety features built into the body, front and rear, help to dissipate most of the impact energy. All of these elements help to provide excellent all-round protection.
* Airbags are supplemental restraint systems only and will not deploy under all accident circumstances. Always use seat belts and child seating appropriate for their size and age. All child seating must satisfy the current legislation standards.
Payload
Payload is related to gross vehicle weight. Payload capacity is the weight the vehicle is able to carry but does not include the weight of the vehicle itself.
PCP (Personal Contract Purchase)
PCP is a type of vehicle financing that is designed to make it easier to purchase a car when full funds are lacking. PCPs are loans that require you to pay a 10% deposit on the value of the car at the very beginning. This type of loan has many facets to it, and can be viewed as more of a long-term rental than a full purchase, as many who take out a PCP don’t always end up with full ownership of a car – this depends on what course of action you take once the contract is up.
PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
A plug-in hybrid vehicle combines a standard combustion engine with a large electric battery, creating a ‘hybrid’ vehicle. Because the battery in a PHEV is quite large, longer distances can be travelled on the electric battery before the fuel engine has to kick in to help. This car type is seen as a good stepping stone between a full combustion engine and a full electric vehicle.
Pick-up
When you need a hard-working pick-up with power and intelligence, you'll find the perfect combination in our Amarok.
Rear-view Camera
The rear-view camera gives you an optimised view of the area behind your vehicle. The system utilises the screen integrated into the media system which helps you navigate a safe route when reversing.
RPM (Revolutions Per Minute)
RPM is a term that refers to how quickly a car is operating by measuring how many ‘rotations’ the engine makes within one minute. This information can be useful in diagnostic situations, as the RPM can relay important information about a vehicle’s efficiency and overall performance.
SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)
If you own a vehicle that you no longer wish to drive or park on public roads, you can apply for a SORN. Once approved, you won’t have to pay tax on this vehicle. As long as a SORN is in place, you will be disallowed from driving or parking it on public roads.
Stop/Start
Automatically turns the engine off when you stop and engage neutral. As soon as it's time to move, the engine starts up again. A simple, but highly-effective system.
SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
An SUV is a typically larger, taller and bulkier car with bigger wheels that can withstand being driven on a variety of tough terrains, and gives greater performance in all weathers. They are also usually more spacious and possess a larger boot.
TDI
The latest generation Euro 6 TDI and BiTDI common-rail diesel engines provide excellent economy and an abundance of usable torque. Both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced without sacrificing the driving dynamics.
Tipper
With a tough steel platform, one tonne load lashing points and an Ingimex Titan tipper body, our robust Crafter Tipper is hard to beat, whatever you need to offload.
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
A TPMS is an important in-built safety feature which alerts a driver if a tyre is under-inflated. By doing so, the driver can avoid travelling on a potentially dangerous under-inflated tyre and instead quickly resolve the issue.
Traction Control System (TCS)
Traction control helps to limit tyre slip under acceleration on slippery surfaces, thus helping the driver to retain proper control. Using sensors at each wheel, the system recognises when traction has been lost and momentarily applies braking to that wheel to help it regain grip. Traction control does not increase traction though; it simply attempts to stop a vehicle's wheels spinning.
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
A VIN is a unique number given to every vehicle in order to identify it. The VIN is given to a car on the production line and cannot be changed – the number can be found in multiple locations throughout a car, including in the engine bay. The VIN is important because it allows vehicles to be tracked easily by the police in criminal and other types of situations, or to establish ownership of a vehicle.
Volkswagen Crafter conversions
Our Volkswagen Crafter conversions offer a more bespoke vehicle solution. We work in partnership with our recognised converter, Ingimex, to create high quality and durable Crafter Dropside, Tipper and Luton variations.
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