Pick-up trucks have become more popular and appealing within the UK in recent years. However, deciding if it is the right decision for you can often be difficult. As the demand has grown for such vehicles the choice has also increased. With the design of pick-up trucks now offering practicality alongside comfort. But should you invest in one and hire a pick-up truck? Here at Mac’s Truck Rental, we will take you through the pros and cons to help you decide.
Tax Savings
One big reason for the rise in pick-up popularity is the potential tax savings. HMRC class any vehicle as a van if the payload exceeds 1,000kg. If your pick-up can carry that weight, it will mean you will pay a flat rate of road tax no matter which model you choose. Additionally, if you take out a business lease, and your company is VAT registered, you can claim up to 100% of the VAT back on your monthly payments and maintenance package.
Versatile
Often when people picture a pick-up truck they think of the towing and hauling capabilities. This is not the wrong imagery. Pick-ups usually have a load space of approximately 1.5m x 1.5m and can typically carry a payload of around 1,000-1,100kg. Previously pick-ups were typically used in the construction sector, for instance, to carry large amounts of heavy materials. Often exposed to all weather types as the back was open. However, they are capable of a lot more in recent years with many people using them as personal and family vehicles. Also, they have the ability to tow trailers, caravans, and boats. Their maximum towing capacity is usually between 2.5 tonnes and 3.5 tonnes.
Comfort
They are also extremely versatile in terms of space, with the inside being the same as a standard car. The ride height of an SUV and an unchallenged load bay at the rear. The flat load area at the back is ideal for carrying objects that are too big or impractical for a car boot. Different models have varying space in the cab, which can also change the size of the load bay. Single-cab models often have a single row of seats for two or three people. Meanwhile, with a king or crew cab, there are seats in the back, but it would depend on the model how much legroom and how many rear doors there are.
Types Of Road Travel
Previously, pick-up trucks were used for off-road hard journeys to transport items and people. Their initial function to move items came first which often meant they had to be tough. However, due to this it often meant they weren’t the most comfortable to travel in either on or off-road. Although now manufacturers have considered comfort more. Featuring things to improve driver experiences such as noise canceling, coil-spring suspension, and high-speed stability. With the interior mirroring the comfort of a car.
Safety
Safety should always be the number one priority and different pick-up trucks have varying safety features depending on the model. For instance, dynamic control, brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution, and seven airbags. Although, on the whole simply by virtue of their size and sturdiness, pickup trucks are very safe vehicles.
Running costs
As pickup trucks are designed for towing and hauling, they will never be the most economical or eco-friendly vehicle. However, over recent years they have been manufactured to be more fuel-efficient as technology has advanced. Although the costs to run will also depend on several factors such as journey length, weather, and driving style. Engines often operate less efficiently in low temperatures. In reality, a pick-up truck will never beat most standard cars when it comes to fuel efficiency. Although it depends on your requirements, the model you move forward with, and if you buy or rent.
Rent a pick-up truck from Mac’s Truck Rental today. Offering a variety of towing capabilities, off-road abilities, and practicality. Contact us today!