Any driver van insurance companies this month received news that commercial vehicle manufacturers Ford and Volkswagen are set to co-operate on the development of vans with a view to reducing capital overheads.

In addition to working on the development of conventional vans, the two giants will also be working on self-driving and electric commercial vehicles, with sales from the joint venture predicted to commence in 2022.

The two have been keen to stress that the venture does not amount to or even suggest the possibility of a merger. Instead they say it is merely a response to market conditions; both manufacturers expect significant growth in the commercial vehicle sector over the next decade, with many any driver van insurance fleet managers predicted to grow their operations.

"Over time, this alliance will help both companies create value and meet the needs of our customers and society," commented Ford chief Jim Hackett.

It is reported that Ford will work on large and medium-sized pickups and larger commercial vans, with Volkswagen responsible for the design of smaller vans.

The move towards electric vehicles is seemingly inevitable with so many countries now providing incentives for the managers of any driver van insurance fleets to move towards cleaner technologies - Volkswagen has said that it will spend $800 million on readying its vehicle plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee to produce electric vehicles.

The two hope that the partnership will increase profits while also leading to improved emissions standards and better customer experience.