Panel truck

1906 Kansas City Panel Truck

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1923 Dodge Brothers Screenside Truck (6602710033)

Australian National Airways Freighter Service van, 1946 model

Advance Design Panel Truck (9496201211)

Flickr - DVS1mn - 55 Chevrolet 3800 Panel Truck (1)

Chrysler PT-Cruiser 2.2 CRD Touring Facelift rear-1

Panel truck refers to a type of truck or van characterized by a fully enclosed body. It is used primarily for the transportation of goods and materials rather than passengers. Unlike other types of trucks, the panel truck's cargo area is not separated from the cab unless by a simple metal or wooden partition. The term "panel truck" is often used interchangeably with "van" in some regions, though it traditionally denotes a vehicle built on a truck chassis rather than a van's unibody construction.

Design and Usage

Panel trucks are designed with a focus on utility and cargo space. They feature a large, boxy rear section that is ideal for hauling goods. This design makes them popular choices for delivery services, tradespeople, and businesses requiring the transportation of goods in a secure and weatherproof environment. The lack of side windows in the cargo area distinguishes them from passenger vans and contributes to the security of transported goods by preventing visibility from the outside.

History

The panel truck has its origins in the early 20th century, evolving from the commercial use of modified passenger vehicles to more specialized designs intended for cargo transport. In the past, they were commonly used by businesses for local deliveries of goods such as baked goods, laundry, and flowers. As the automotive industry advanced, the panel truck evolved into more modern forms, including the contemporary cargo van, which offers improved performance, efficiency, and safety features.

Variants

Several variants of the panel truck exist, including the step van, which is larger and often used for delivery services and as food trucks. Another variant is the high-roof panel van, which offers more interior height for standing room or taller cargo. These vehicles are built on a variety of chassis, including those of light-duty, medium-duty, and heavy-duty trucks, to accommodate different cargo capacities and uses.

Modern Usage

Today, panel trucks are less commonly referred to by that term, with "cargo van" or simply "van" being more prevalent. However, the concept remains integral to various industries, including courier services, construction, and mobile businesses. Modern equivalents are equipped with advanced technology for navigation, cargo management, and driver assistance, reflecting the evolution of the panel truck from a simple utility vehicle to an essential tool in modern logistics and business operations.

See Also

• Cargo van
• Delivery van
• Step van
• Truck
• Van