Volkswagen Crafter Expands with Specialized Tipper and Box Body Options

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Expands Crafter Lineup with New Specialized Body Variants

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is broadening its Crafter range with new variants featuring specialized bodies. As the manufacturer has just announced, customers can now order three-way tipper trucks and box bodies directly through the dealer network. Developed in collaboration with body manufacturers, these solutions are designed to meet transport needs across various industries. Sales are handled through an "invoicing model," which includes an extended warranty.

The new Crafter variants come with bodies from partners Schoon and Spier, available as complete, ready-to-use solutions through Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealers. The goal is to provide seamless processing for both the vehicle and its bodywork while reducing unplanned workshop costs through a manufacturer's warranty of up to five years, covering the bodies as well.

Box Body: Optimized for Payload and Volume

Spier's Athlet S series box bodies are available for Crafter chassis with single cabs. Customers can choose between two lengths: the L3, with a base vehicle length of 6,260 millimeters (6,450 mm including the body), and the L4, at 7,065 millimeters (7,255 mm with the body). Wheelbases measure 3,640 and 4,490 millimeters, respectively.

Permissible gross vehicle weights range from 3.5 to 5.5 tons. Depending on the configuration, the body itself weighs between 429 and 598 kilograms (or 562 to 769 kg when equipped with a tail lift), while cargo capacity spans from a minimum of 15.3 to a maximum of 20.5 cubic meters.

Technically, the body features a sandwich-panel construction and a weight-optimized design. A roof spoiler and rounded profiles help reduce air resistance. Standard equipment includes a translucent GRP roof, LED lighting strips in the cargo area, and integrated airline rails for securing loads. The body can be paired with rear doors or tail lifts from various suppliers.

Three-Way Tipper for Bulk Materials and Green Waste

As a second option, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a three-way tipper from Schoon, designed for transporting bulk materials, wood, or green waste. A low loading height and a welded frame structure enhance everyday usability.

The side panels are made from aluminum hollow-chamber profiles as standard and come with flush-mounted fasteners. Steel side panels are available as an option. The body is hot-dip galvanized and carries a ten-year anti-corrosion warranty.

The tipping function is controlled via a hydraulic system operated by a switch inside the cab. Designed for low maintenance, the system meets the DIN EN 12642 XL standard for load securing. Optional accessories include leaf guards and toolboxes.

Wide Range of Powertrains and Configurations

The base vehicle—a Crafter chassis with a single cab—is available in 36 engine and transmission variants. These include diesel engines with 103 kW (140 hp), 120 kW (163 hp), and 130 kW (177 hp) outputs, paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. Customers can choose between front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive.

An optional dual passenger seat is available, and the tipper can also be ordered with a double cab.

Pricing and Availability

In Germany, prices for the Crafter with a box body start at €54,852 (net) for the 3.5-ton gross vehicle weight variant in L4 length, equipped with a 103 kW diesel engine, front-wheel drive, and a manual transmission. The Crafter with the Schoon tipper begins at €54,216.40 (net) in a comparable specification.

The base vehicles are manufactured at Volkswagen's plant in Września, Poland.