Ambulance, snack, horse and emergency service vehicles – the AL-KO VT chassis offers countless possibilities
Whether sales vehicle, flatbed, ambulance or livestock transporter – thanks to many years of experience, AL-KO VT has the right lightweight chassis for every customer. What are the options? Which sectors need which solution? Here you'll find everything you need to know about the AL-KO VT lightweight chassis.
Versatile solutions for different vehicle body functions
AL-KO VT chassis with flexible wheelbases have impressed for years with their functionality and versatility. They are the foundation for a wide range of body solutions with flexible dimensions and can always be customised to the customer’s requirements. The tandem torsion-beam rear axle with 13-inch wheels enables builds with a low, flat load area without wheel arches in the body. This gives AL-KO VT vehicle technology maximum flexibility, high ride comfort and contributes to driving safety.
Body manufacturers are free to design the layout of the loading area. From craft vehicles to animal transporters and emergency service vehicles, transporters can be built exactly to the desired specification.
The advantages of the AL-KO VT lightweight chassis
Thanks to the AL-KO VT lightweight chassis and its low frame weight, you can load even more goods onto your transporter and benefit from a higher payload. The hot-dip galvanised frame ensures the chassis is always protected against corrosion. Depending on the intended use of your transporter, the wheelbase and frame length can be individually configured to increase the cargo area. Low-frame and ultra-low chassis offer a low loading edge, making loading and unloading cargo more comfortable.
The chassis concept – High-frame, low-frame or ultra-low frame
AL-KO VT offers three different starting models for vehicles: high-frame, low-frame or ultra-low frame chassis. Depending on the chosen platform, the result is a 2-axle, 3-axle or 13-inch chassis.
2-axle and 3-axle models
AL-KO VT chassis with 13-inch technology
The AL-KO VT chassis with 13-inch rear axles also allows you to configure the wheelbase, overhang and frame length. Extended load lengths are possible. High payload and increased permissible gross weight make goods transport even more efficient. High-performance disc brakes deliver outstanding (braking) performance even in emergencies. These features make AL-KO VT models unique.
Lowered frame
Compared to the original ladder frame, the AL-KO VT chassis is up to 220 millimetres lower. The reduced step-in height makes loading and unloading much easier. Because the vehicle's centre of gravity is lower than other transporters, driving is considerably safer. The aerodynamics also improve thanks to the lower overall vehicle height. The patented shear cam connection ensures a solid connection with the transporter at all times.
Lightweight design and corrosion protection
The use of high-strength steels adds extra stability, while the "C-profile" design ensures maximum frame rigidity. All chassis components are stress-optimised and galvanised to offer the best protection against rust.
Suspension
Air Premium X2 and X4
The right suspension is essential for high weights. That's why the systems are precisely matched to the permissible axle load. Independent wheel suspension also improves handling, increasing safety.
With the different suspension systems from AL-KO VT, you always travel in complete safety and comfort. The components provide noticeably improved driving comfort! The front axle Comfort Suspension strut is a unique combination of high-performance shock absorber and coil spring, perfectly matched to the actual vehicle weight. It absorbs surface irregularities and reduces steering wheel vibrations and interior noise.
The counterpart for the rear axle is the Air Premium X2. The 2-circuit full air suspension is an electronically controlled, fully automatic system. With a new wired soft-touch remote control, it can even be raised or lowered manually. The Air Premium X4 is an automatic 4-circuit full air suspension. Air suspension struts at the front and air bellows at the rear provide automatic alignment to the optimal ride height and level the vehicle perfectly when stationary.
The different areas of application
AL-KO VT vehicle bodies are used in the following base vehicles. Click the links to find specific details about the model you’re interested in.
- Volkswagen Transporter
- Volkswagen Transporter commercial vehicle chassis 13-inch
- Fiat Ducato commercial vehicle chassis 13-inch
- Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper
Flatbed vehicles
Flatbed vehicles are an excellent solution for transporting vehicles or machines. Unlike other builds, flatbeds are open at the top.
Box bodies
Vehicles with a box body have long been used across various industries. The enclosed unit allows for large cargo volumes. The solid body makes it possible to secure the load safely and also to equip the interior as needed, for example, with shelves or hanging rails.
A special type of body is the so-called refrigerated box body. Here, too, the AL-KO VT chassis impresses with flexible dimensions—wheelbase, overhang and frame length are available in a range of options. Optimum axle load distribution, precisely tuned suspension and high frame strength ensure maximum stability and safety. The low centre of gravity also makes these vehicles highly resistant to crosswinds. The mentioned torsion bar and air suspension systems can also be optionally integrated into box and refrigerated box vehicles.
Sales vehicles
Ice cream vans, snack vans or bakery sales vehicles are characterised mainly by their large serving hatch. Usually, a door is fitted on the opposite side or at the rear. The low height of the chassis not only makes loading and unloading easier, but also puts you at eye level with your customers. Sales vehicles are available as 2-axle, 3-axle and 13-inch chassis.
Horse transporters
Happiness on Earth is found in a horse transporter. Thanks to AL-KO VT chassis and the right body, transporting animals is now effortless. The low loading ramp angle is designed to make it easy for horses and other animals to board the vehicle. The side entry is also much more relaxing for the horse.
Emergency and security service vehicles
Ambulance, fire service and police education vehicles – with lightweight chassis from AL-KO VT, emergency service vehicles also gain a safe and reliable foundation. The optimised suspension systems especially benefit passenger transport. Delicate cargo is also transported safely. The low loading ramp angle provides more convenience for organisational vehicles on the job.
