This is a van. It is a US-only Chevrolet Express; a long-running workhorse that’s been doing service over in the States for some 25 years. We now discover that this van has been fitted with a new engine, and… it’s a V8.

Not just any V8, but a 405hp whopper. And not just any capacity, but a 6.6-litre leviathan that also packs a handy 630Nm of torque. Let’s just repeat that once more for effect: a van, with a 6.6-litre V8, and 405hp. What a time to be alive.

Chevy tells us this new V8 ‘gas engine’ boasts 17 per cent more horsepower and 24 per cent more torque than the weedy, skeletal 6.0-litre it replaces. Indeed, we’re assured that “whether hauling equipment, supplies or people, the additional output and wider torque band will give drivers more on-demand power and confidence”. Maybe best to strap down said equipment/supplies/people securely. Nobody wants to know what the inside of a tumble dryer feels like.

Want one? It’s being introduced for the 2021 model year, but if massive V8s aren’t your preferred choice of commercial van propulsion, Ford’s taking a rather different tack with its 2022 Transit.

Because Ford’s 2022 Transit is going fully electric. There is scant information beyond the targeted sale date, and the fact it’ll arrive with three roof height options and three body lengths. Oh, and the electric one will only be available in the US and Canada.

Ford tells us it’ll have smart tech onboard – logging data for better fleet performance – along with driver assists like pre-collision, emergency braking, pedestrian detection and so on. We’ll find out more in due course.

Indeed, which course would you prefer – big, powerful V8, or electric?

STORY Vijay Pattni