BRITISH van maker LDV is looking forward to a successful year in 2001 after recording a 6.5% sales increase last year. While market share remained at 10.1%, total van sales were 15,015 vehicles - 1,866 Cubs, 2,253 Pilots and 10,015 Convoys.

For the Cub, the figures represent a 42.4% increase. LPG will be playing a big part in LDV's marketing strategy. A spokesman said: '2000 was certainly the year of alternative fuels and we have enjoyed immense success following the introduction of our range in 2000. To date we have received orders for 330 LPG Convoys, including one of Europe's largest ever deals for 68 vehicles from Swindon Borough Council worth £2 million.'

This year, the LPG range will be extended to include short wheelbase models and chassis cabs and LDV is making ABS brakes standard on its minibuses in a new move towards greater passenger safety.