CV brand manager Phil Harwood told Fleet Van that 2005 had been dubbed the Year of the Conversion, as Vauxhall would be launching a host of special models.

The aim is to sell 50,000 LCVs next year and one way of achieving this was to alter the production of Vauxhall Vivaro at the IBC plant in Luton.

At present, the plant builds both Vauxhall Vivaro and Renault Trafic, which are basically the same vehicle, but from next year, most of the Trafic production will be moved to Barcelona, thus freeing up time to build more Vivaros.

First niche model will be a new Vivaro minibus converted by Advanced Minibus Ltd.

It will have nine seats tested to M1 standard and the rear row will be removable. This will be followed by a 12-seat version, wheelchair- accessible version and a taxi.

Movano will be available in 15, 16 and 17-seat minibus versions, along with a wheelchair version. Combo will also be launched with wheelchair access. Vivaro will have a brand new member of the family in the shape of a dropside body, in both high and low-deck formats.

Combo and Movano will also be available with refrigerated bodies, courtesy of Somers, and there will be a Vivaro cherry picker converted by Versalift.

Last but not least is a Movano car transporter, home delivery vehicle, milk float and glass transporter.