Chevrolet started with a clean sheet of paper and launched the ChevyVan and Express as totally new models last year. After 25 years of riding on a unit body chassis, the new vans use body-on-frame construction. The rugged full ladder-type frame construction provides a rock-solid foundation that helps isolate passengers and cargo from road vibrations while reducing body roll in corners. If a box can be called aerodynamic, then the new Chevys are aerodynamic. The new design is particularly eye-catching in the rear three-quarter view. The rear doors are cleverly designed so that when they are open the tail lights, mounted high on the rear corners, are visible to motorists approaching from behind, which enhances safety at night. Hidden hinges allow the rear doors to swing completely out of the way for loading large objects. Side doors can be ordered in either sliding or hinged form.
Inside is a comfortable cabin with dual air bags and a new, highly legible instrument panel with an extra 12-volt accessory plug. Anti-lock brakes are standard and a full-size spare rides underneath, behind the rear axle. Mechanically the same, the Van is designed to haul cargo, while the Express is set up to carry people. Our Express G3500 Extended model accommodated up to 15 passengers. The Extended Van is capable of handling up to 316.8 cu. ft. of cargo, which is more space than the Ford or Dodge vans offer. Part of their big capacity comes from long wheelbases. The regular wheelbase of the G1500, G2500 and G3500 models measures 135 inches. The Extended G2500 and G3500 models ride on a wheelbase that is longer than those offered by Ford and Dodge, stretching to 155 inches. |
