Vehicle
Device
or structure for transporting persons or things.
Vans are mechanically similar to pickup trucks, except that the
cargo area is enclosed and is part of the body. Vans typically have
side doors and a rear door in addition to the front doors. A cargo
van is equipped with only a front seat, and the unfinished rear
area is reserved for hauling items. Cargo vans are often used to
deliver small parcels and goods in urban areas. A passenger van
has multiple seats for carrying extra passengers, as well as side
windows. Some have lengthened bodies to carry up to 15 or more passengers
and are used like small buses. A conversion van is a cargo van that
has been specially modified to carry passengers in luxury. Conversion
vans typically have plush interiors, numerous accessories, and individual
seats. Minivans are smaller vans intended primarily for hauling
six to eight passengers. Minivans have mostly replaced station wagons
as a family vehicle. Some minivans have rear-wheel drive, but most
have front-wheel drive. They also have the same engines, transmissions,
and suspension components as front-wheel-drive passenger cars. In
addition to the two front doors, most minivans have one or two sliding
side doors and a rear liftgate that opens vertically
vehicle.
Many light trucks are adapted for special uses.
Tow trucks have a derrick and winch for towing vehicles, or a tilting
bed for carrying disabled vehicles. Many ambulances are also built
on light-truck frames. Large police trucks, nicknamed paddy wagons,
have an enclosed confinement area in the back for transporting groups
of people who have been arrested. Some police departments in large
cities also have specially armored trucks for use by riot teams
or bomb disposal units.
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