Commercial vans have steadily grown in popularity over the last decade, as fleet managers and business owners look for cost-savings and improved efficiency in their vehicles. Van upfitting options have increased alongside this growth, including shelving, storage boxes, tools, and accessories.
But not all new options are appropriate for commercial vans, and this is especially true when it comes to air compressors. Although there are several new mobile compressed air options available, only one air compressor has been specifically engineered for commercial vans—the UNDERHOOD® 40 Van Series Air Compressor.
Here we’ll explore the top 5 reasons to choose an UNDERHOOD air compressor for your work van, instead of a traditional standalone air compressor inside of your van.
1. Lightweight
The UNDERHOOD40 Van Series Air Compressor is lightweight, weighing approximately 85 lb and cutting down GVW by as much as 290 lb. This means you can carry more tools and equipment, or take advantage of improved fuel economy.
The Environmental Protection Agency reports that for every 100 lb taken from your vehicle, fuel economy is increased by up to 2%. Depending on how many miles you’re putting on each vehicle, this could equate to hundreds of dollars saved every year off your bottom line.
2. Powerful
Patented rotary screw technology allows the UNDERHOOD40 to deliver up to 40 CFM at 100% duty cycle. This air compressor provides on-demand air when you need it—no need to wait for an air receiver tank to fill up. With 40 CFM 100% of the time, you can maximize productivity and get through jobs faster.
3. Compact
Save precious space in your van’s cargo area by choosing an UNDERHOOD air compressor. The UNDERHOOD40 is engineered specifically to mount in the engine compartment of the most popular commercial vans, including models by Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Freightliner.
Without a bulky standalone air compressor in the cargo area, you’ll save up to 10 cubic feet of space in the back of the van. The only space required in the cargo area is 1.7 cubic feet for a combined air/oil cooler and air/oil separator tank.
4. Safe
The UNDERHOOD40 solves common safety issues that many operators face with traditional air compressors installed in van cargo areas. An under-the-hood solution means operators won’t be exposed to toxic fumes in the cargo area or even the risk of gas fires. In addition, lifting injuries are minimized as operators are not required to lift and move a heavy piece of machinery.
UNDERHOOD40 systems with Advanced Digital Controls, available for most popular 2023+ model year commercial vans, are also equipped with enhanced safety controls including automatic system checks, thermal protection, safety interlocks on the transmission park signal and parking brake, and more.
5. Reliable
The UNDERHOOD40 is manufactured in North America and built to last. All VMAC air compressors are second-to-none in quality and come with a VMAC Lifetime Air-End Warranty.
The UNDERHOOD40 is the ideal solution for operating air tools including ¾” impact wrenches, light chipping hammers, die grinders, and tire inflation guns. When choosing an air compressor for your fleet, choose the air compressor that will allow you to get jobs done faster, safer, and more conveniently; choose the UNDERHOOD40.
Read more about the UNDERHOOD40 Van Series air compressor or find a local dealer today!
