Automotive Update: Service Van Options
In last month’s automotive news, we looked at some of the new-for-2026 car models. This month, we look at service vans options for locksmiths who are looking to buy new vehicles, starting with the top-of-the-line Mercedes Sprinter.
There aren’t that many options, with Nissan no longer producing commercial vans and some uncertainty surrounding Chevrolet models. Besides the pricey Sprinters, options include the Ford ProMaster, Dodge Ram and Chevrolet Express vans. Maybe this is why we’ve been seeing quite a few non-traditional work vans from SUVs, passenger vans and even busses and ambulances.
Mercedes is rolling out a new version of its Sprinter full-size van. While the preview seemed to indicate a high-roof model, Mercedes confirmed the next Sprinter will once again offer a variety of wheelbases, body lengths, and roof heights.
“We noted a few interesting details at the back, most notably that the body is boxier and more upright with less tumble-home (narrowing towards the top) than the current van. A wider body would, of course, increase the cargo volume of the Sprinter, perhaps to better compete against newer stepvan-type designs like the now-defunct Chevrolet BrightDrop, and it also harkens back to the original Sprinter of 1995,“ Motortrend reported in its recent article, https://www.motortrend.com/news/mercedes-teases-next-generation-mercedes-benz-sprinter
Mercedes notes that all Mercedes-Benz vans will be available in all-electric and traditional gasoline engines. New models will run entirely on the company’s own Mercedes‑Benz Operating System.
Dodge Ram Promaster
Ram ProMaster features up to 6,910 pounds of towing capability and 4,680 pounds of payload. The 2025 Ram ProMaster is available in 16 different wheelbase and roof height configurations.
Safety features ever offered on ProMaster include Active Drive Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Warning with Emergency Brake Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, Crosswind Assist and Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist. The low cargo-load floor height and step-in height are great ergonomic features for the person getting in and out of the van all day.
The 2026 Ram 1500 with 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 eTorque engine is available for order.
Chevy Confusion
There’s been a lot of confusion about the future of Chevrolet commercial vans. At one point, Chevrolet announced plans to discontinue its Chevrolet Express line after 2025, to be replaced with its all-electric Brightdrop vans. Now it appears that Chevrolet is cutting back on the Bridghtdrop models due to poor sales and resuming production of the Express.
Two models of Chevrolet Express cargo vans were produced for the 2025 model year
Express 2500 Cargo and Passenger Vans:
- 135-inch/155-inch wheelbase
- Up to 16,000 lbs. Gross Combination Weight Rating
- Up to 8,600 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
- Cargo Van offers up to 3,280 lbs. of payload capacity
Express 3500 Cargo and Passenger Vans
- 135-inch/155-inch wheelbase
- Up to 16,000 lbs. Gross Combination Weight Rating
- Up to 9,900 lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
- Cargo Van offers up to 4,280 lbs. of payload capacity
Chevy did introduce two electric van options for the 2025-2026 models, the Brightdrop 400 and Brightdrop 600, though they may now be discontinued. The main difference is the capacity.
Chevrolet described the Brightdrop 600 as “the premier all-purpose, all-electric walk-in van, purpose-built with the driver in mind.” It has a maximum payload of 3,180 lbs and a maximum cargo volume of 614.7 cubic feet. The larger Brightdrop 400 has a maximum payload of 3,710 lbs and maximum cargo volume of 412 cubic feet.
Ford Transit
Ford’s offerings include the Transit, Transit Connect and E-Transit, available in three roof heights and three body lengths.
Four available factory-installed trade packages with components by Ranger Design are tailor-made for four leading industries.
- Electrician trade package, which includes drawers and bins to store parts and reels to hang bundles of wiring
- HVAC trade package, featuring large shelves and storage bins, but also specialized refrigerant storage racks and restraints
- General Contractor package, mix of multipurpose shelves, bins, drawers, and
- Foldable Shelving Package, with deep, large-capacity folding shelves intended for delivery services
Additional new options available:
- Wall Liner Kit (ceiling, wall, door), regular or long length only, also includes lighting and wheel well covers to help aid in installation of upfit equipment
- Large Grab Handles Kit (2 D-pillars), regular and long length only, to support easier accessibility
Auto Shows
Auto shows are a great place to get your hands on new models and new technologies, and locksmiths usually can be found looking at the locking systems.
- The Detroit Auto Show is scheduled Jan. 14-15, 2026 at Huntington Place.
- The 2026 Chicago Auto Show is scheduled Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place.
- The 2026 New York International Auto Show is scheduled April 3-12 at the Javits Center.
Save the Date: 2026 Locksmith Pro Expo
Join Key Innovations and UHS Hardware March 4-6, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, for the 2026 Locksmith Pro Expo. Get hands-on training, connect with industry leaders, explore the latest tools and tech, and win thousands in giveaways. Don’t miss this chance to grow your skills, network, and take your locksmith career to the next level!
Registration is now open at https://locksmithproacademy.org/.
Classes include:
Intro to OEM Software, NASTF, & Ethics with Brian Suggs.
Class description: Start your journey with this essential overview! Gain a solid understanding of OEM programming basics, including hardware options, subscription access, and ethical considerations. Learn how and where to access OEM websites and get familiar with NASTF resources. This session is perfect for newcomers or anyone looking to strengthen their foundational knowledge of OEM software and programming.
- J2534 Technology and OEM software – What it is, why it matters, and how it fits into modern locksmithing.
- Proper driver installation and configuration for seamless operation.
- Using J2534 tools for diagnostics and programming.
- Understanding NASTF and Ethics
Mastering Volvo Key Programming: 1999–2025 with Jonathan Issa
Class description: This comprehensive course is designed for locksmiths who want to master Volvo and Polestar key programming. Covering vehicles from 1999 to 2025—including Volvo’s electric Polestar line—this class combines theory with hands-on practice. You’ll learn EPROMming, OBD aftermarket programmers, VIDA subscriptions, and how to troubleshoot common programming challenges.
- Understand Volvo key types from 1999 to 2025 and Polestar electric vehicles
- Be proficient in using VVDI PROG, VVDI2, ACDP, and TM Pro tools
- Know how to use Smart Pro with or without the dongle for OBD programming
- Be able to confidently purchase, install, and troubleshoot VIDA subscriptions
- Gain practical knowledge of how to use VIDA for Polestar key programming
- Complete the full key programming process on a live Volvo vehicle
Building & Scaling a Successful Automotive Locksmith Business with Eric Lambert
Class description: Stop letting your business run you—start running your business. In this high-impact workshop, industry expert Eric “The Beast” Lambert shares over 15 years of real-world locksmithing experience to help you take control of the business side of automotive locksmithing. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this class is packed with practical strategies, insider tips, and proven systems to help you work smarter and more profitably.
Designing an efficient and profitable van setup
- Inventory management methods to boost margins and reduce waste
- Choosing the right POS and payment systems
- Navigating insurance and liability protection
- Marketing strategies to attract and retain customers
- Eliminating time-wasting admin tasks
- Setting up for long-term growth and scalability
Subaru Key Generation & Programming: 2006+ with Justin Suedel
This hands-on course equips locksmiths to generate and duplicate keys for all transponder-equipped and proximity-start Subaru models (2006–2026). Subaru’s G and H immobilizer systems are challenging, especially in all-keys-lost situations, where dealership solutions are costly and slow. Learn proven methods and tools to provide faster, more affordable key programming solutions.
Southern Lock 2026 Trade Show & Learning Expo
Save the Date! Join Southern Lock in St. Petersburg, Florida, next May for hands-on training, networking, and special dinner banquet to celebrate their 80th year of business!
More details & course schedules coming soon at www.SouthernLock.com