PEUGEOT is introducing hands-free communications to white van man with an integrated mobile phone and satellite navigation system on the Boxer van.

The company has developed a 'radio unit' comprising a radio, CD player, navigation system and GSM dual-band mobile telephone with a microphone built in to the roof console to allow the driver to speak to callers, while the caller's voice is heard through the radio speakers.

Its voice synthesis function also enables text messages received via the telephone to be read out electronically for the driver to hear, removing the temptation to manually read text messages.

From December 1 it will become an offence to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving, even when stationary in traffic.

Steve Harris, fleet director at Peugeot, said: 'With the mobile phone and satellite navigation system we have developed a safe and cost-effective solution to enable van drivers to make deliveries on time with less stress, and to communicate on the move keeping on the right side of the law.

'The system is easy to use and will continue to be developed to ensure van drivers have access to the same technology as the company car driver.'

The system costs £1,040 (ex-VAT) with a monochrome screen, or £1,200 with a colour screen.