You can convert a panel van to do almost any job, including some surprisingly heavy tasks. A good example is for use as a roadside assistance vehicle, with built-in tool storage and a fold-out recovery trailer.

The AA and RAC have been using these for a while now, but I’ve not seen a close-up of a conversion before. However, Allianz Global Assistance has recently ordered a fleet of 79 roadside assistance vehicles based on Volkswagen Transporters — and VW has kindly provided these photos.

One of the Allianz Global Assistance Volkswagen Transporter roadside assistance vans with the trailer folded out.

The same van with the recovery trailer folded away into the storage position.

A closer view of the fold-out recovery trailer

Every Transporter has been converted to enable its technicians to carry all the essential equipment they need while on the road, including a compact recovery trailer, diagnostic equipment and dedicated storage for jack, axle stands, tools, common vehicle parts and car batteries.

Racking and tool storage inside the Transporter roadside assistance conversion

The new Transporter fleet will be supplied from the Birmingham Volkswagen Van Centre, which has worked with Allianz Global Assistance to ensure the vehicles have been converted to the bespoke specification required, and delivered on time.