Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge (VW NF) has long been a benchmark name in the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) sector in Europe. Its latest extension to the widely used Transporter line — the new flat-bed truck with double-cab (“Pritschenwagen mit Doppelkabine”, commonly “DoKa”) — marks a significant addition to the Swiss market. This article explores the technical details, market implications, user scenarios, and strategic relevance of this model, anchored in the published information and augmented by independent research.

Model Overview

At the heart of the offer lies the new Transporter flat-bed with double cab. According to the press release, the model features:

• A double-cab (six-seater) configuration.
• A gross flat-bed area of 4.2 m², a length of 2,169 mm and width of 1,945 mm behind the double cab.
• Load edge height between 956 and 980 mm, and aluminium fold-down side walls.
• Payload up to 1,073 kg and trailer capacity of up to 2,500 kg.
• Standard configuration: long wheel-base, six seats, and foldable aluminium sideboards.
• Powertrain options: Diesel TDI engines at 81 kW (110 PS) or 110 kW (150 PS) (with optional 4MOTION all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic); fully electric versions at 100 kW (136 PS), 160 kW (218 PS) and 210 kW (286 PS). Battery in the electric version: 64 kWh net, rear-wheel drive, single-gear automatic.
• Swiss launch pricing: starting at CHF 43,685 (excl. VAT) for the flat-bed version; chassis from CHF 43,010.
• Swiss premiere at the trade fair transportCH in Bern from November 5 to 8, Stand in Hall 3.0 B002.

In addition, VW NF stresses that the Transporter line has served the construction, forestry and horticulture sectors reliably for decades, thanks to its robust build and limited competition in the double-cab flat-bed niche.

In the Swiss market context, this model enters a segment where versatility, team transport plus load capacity matter strongly — for example, in construction firms needing to carry crew and materials in one trip.

 

Technical & Practical Implications

Load space and payload

With a flat-bed of 4.2 m² and dimensions of 2,169 × 1,945 mm, this vehicle allows for two standard Euro-pallets (approx. 1,200 × 800 mm) side by side — a practical size for many commercial users. According to VW’s data, the Transporter DoKa can carry up to 1,073 kg payload and tow up to 2,500 kg.

For comparison, the wider Transporter (non-flatbed) of the 2025 generation offers load volumes between 5.8 m³ and 9.0 m³ and payloads up to about 1.33 t.
Hence, the flat-bed DoKa trades internal cargo volume for a flat deck and crew-cab flexibility, making it ideal for mixed crews + equipment usage rather than exclusively long pallets.

Powertrain selection

The availability of both traditional diesel (TDI) and full-electric variants reflects the transition underway in commercial vehicles. Diesel remains dominant for long-haul, heavy-duty demands, while electric versions offer zero-tailpipe emissions, lower noise and fewer restrictions in urban zones. The e-version’s 64 kWh net battery places it among competitive offerings for localised usage.

The optional all-wheel drive (4MOTION) and 8-gang automatic in the 150 PS diesel version provide traction benefits for forestry or construction sites with challenging terrain — a key use-case mentioned by VW NF.

Crew + cargo flexibility

A major plus of the double-cab flat-bed: six seats for the crew plus a relatively large deck behind. Many flat-beds force a trade-off between crew capacity and load space. Here VW NF suggests team-use (e.g., foresters, work crews) plus material transport in one unit. The fold-down aluminium sidewalls assist in easy loading/unloading of materials.

Market positioning & price

With the flat-bed double-cab starting at CHF 43,685 (excl. VAT) in Switzerland, VW NF positions this as relatively accessible in the LCV segment for substantial capabilities.  This price point sets a benchmark for firms considering upgrading or replacing older models.

Robustness & competitor context

VW NF emphasises that the vehicle is “decades proven” in construction and forestry sectors and that competition in the niche double-cab flat-bed is “hardly present”. This suggests VW NF believes the model holds a competitive advantage in a relatively underserved segment — although independent verification of competitive presence would be helpful.

 

Market & Sector Relevance

Construction & forestry relevance

Construction and forestry often demand vehicles capable of transporting both crew and materials — sometimes on rough terrain, sometimes with the need to tow equipment. The new Transporter DoKa aligns with this need: the six-seat cabin allows the team to be transported together, the flat-bed transports materials, and the available 4MOTION all-wheel drive supports off-road or slippery surfaces. The payload of over 1 ton and trailer capacity of 2.5 t further add to utility.

In Switzerland — with mountainous terrain, forests and construction sites often remote or seasonal — such a vehicle may be highly relevant.

Electrification trends in commercial vehicles

The offering of a fully electric variant reflects broader trends: tightening emission regulations, access restrictions in urban zones, and a push for sustainability in corporate fleets. According to independent reports, the new generation Transporter benefits from improved antriebs- (drive) and body variety.
This means firms seeking to future-proof their fleet — especially those operating in urban or semi-urban environments with emission zones — may find the e-variant interesting.

Fleet management & service proposition

VW NF emphasises tailored solutions for commercial customers: fleet connectivity, leasing/financing models, automatic service reminders. This is crucial because beyond the vehicle itself, total cost of ownership (TCO), uptime and service network matter heavily in fleet decisions. When competitors may offer lower purchase price, superior after-sales or connected service may tip the balance.

Competitive landscape and challenges

While VW NF claims limited competition in this niche, other manufacturers also offer double-cab truck bodies or flat-beds. However, few offer the combination of six-seats, flat-bed of this size, and multiple powertrain options (including e-drive) in one package.

A challenge remains: electric variants still face limitations in range, charging infrastructure and total cost. For heavy-duty, long-haul usage, diesel may remain dominant for now. Firms must evaluate usage profile: local urban work vs remote off-road job-sites vs long trailer hauls.

 

Strategic Implications for Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge

From VW NF’s perspective, this model enables several strategic aims:

• Expanding segment coverage: With the flat-bed double-cab, VW NF broadens the Transporter family, offering more body styles and usage scenarios.
• Electrification momentum: Offering e-variants in this body style further underscores VW NF’s commitment to electrified commercial vehicles.
• Strengthening fleet offerings: A vehicle suited to team + cargo transport appeals to business fleets, which are a core customer for VW NF.
• Swiss market focus: The Swiss premiere at transportCH and local pricing launch underline VW NF’s commitment to the Swiss LCV market.

Detailed Specifications Table

The following table gathers key published data for the new Transporter flat-bed double-cab (DoKa) by VW NF in Switzerland:

Specification	Value
Flat-bed area	4.2 m²
Flat-bed dimensions	2,169 mm length × 1,945 mm width
Load edge height	956 – 980 mm
Seats	6 (double-cab)
Payload	Up to 1,073 kg
Trailer capacity	Up to 2,500 kg
Diesel engine options	81 kW / 110 PS; 110 kW / 150 PS (with optional 4MOTION + 8-speed auto)
Electric motor options	100 kW / 136 PS; 160 kW / 218 PS; 210 kW / 286 PS
Battery (electric variant)	64 kWh net
Price (Switzerland)	From CHF 43,685 (excl. VAT) for flat-bed version; chassis from CHF 43,010 (excl. VAT)
Launch event	transportCH in Bern, 5–8 Nov, Hall 3.0, Stand B002

 

Alternative Perspectives & Media Coverage

Beyond the official VW NF materials, independent media provide additional context:

• An article on tir-transNews comments that the new Transporter generation features “13 body-types, including a flat-bed with double cab of 4.2 m² load area.”
• According to an article in Automobil Revue, the 2025 Transporter generation uses mainly long wheelbase for the flat-bed double-cab variant and offers increased exterior width (2,032 mm) and load capabilities.
• On the Swiss VW Nutzfahrzeuge site, the flat-bed version is described as carrying “machines, material or up to six team-members” and able to accommodate two euro-pallets.

These external references reinforce the suitability of the model for professional teams and mixed loads, whilst highlighting the increased body-type breadth in the Transporter generation.

Use-Case Scenarios & Buying Considerations

Ideal application environments

• Construction companies: A team of workers (up to six) and materials/tools can be transported together to a site. The flat-bed permits loading of building materials, scaffolding, bags of cement etc.
• Forestry / logging work: Crew transports into remote forestry sites, and equipment or logs on the flat-bed. The optional 4MOTION all-wheel drive addresses rough terrain.
• Landscaping & horticulture firms: The double-cab allows transport of workers; materials like trees, soil bags, tools on flat-bed.
• Municipal utility fleets: Tasks such as park maintenance, road works, night crews benefit from six-seater plus cargo deck.
• Mixed usage & rental fleets: The versatility appeals to fleet managers who must cover multiple tasks with one vehicle.

Key decision-factors for buyers

• Usage profile: If the vehicle is mostly transporting materials and rarely carrying crew, a single-cab flat-bed may suffice. The double-cab premium must be justified by frequent crew transport.
• Payload & towing needs: With payload up to ~1.07 t and trailer tow 2.5 t, verify that materials + crew + trailer weight stay within limits. For heavier loads, maybe a larger vehicle is required.
• Electric vs diesel: For urban or low-mileage usage with good charging infrastructure, the electric variant is appealing. For long distances, heavy loads, remote sites, diesel may remain more practical today.
• Terrain & drive train: If operation involves unpaved roads, steep slopes or forestry access, the optional 4MOTION and higher-spec diesel will matter.
• Total cost of ownership (TCO): Beyond purchase price, factors include service intervals, downtime, residual value, fuel/electricity costs, fleet connectivity. VW NF’s service network and fleet leasing offerings may tip the balance.
• Body build & adaptability: The vehicle may be used as chassis for specific superstructures; the flat-bed can be built-up further depending on application.
• Resale and brand support: VW NF has long been an established brand with dense service network. That may reduce risk compared to lesser-known competitors.

SWOT Summary

Strengths

• Six-seat double cab + large flat-bed offers unique combination.
• High flexibility for mixed crew + cargo transport.
• Variety of powertrains including full-electric variant.
• Robust build, proven brand reputation in commercial sector.
• Swiss market launch with clear pricing and service support.

Weaknesses

• Payload ~1.07 t is modest compared to heavier trucks; may limit very heavy-duty usage.
• Electric range and charging infrastructure may still constrain some users.
• Premium price compared to simpler single-cab flat-beds or competitor vehicles.

Opportunities

• Growing demand for multi-purpose commercial vehicles; ecological pressure increasing electric adoption.
• Niche segments (forestry, construction, municipal) may value crew-plus-cargo versatility.
• Fleets shifting to electrification may embrace the e-variant.

Threats

• Alternative manufacturers offering cheaper vehicles or more specialised builds.
• Economic factors: inflation in materials, energy costs, fleet budgets.
• Regulation changes (e.g., weight classes) may impact optimal vehicle selection.
• If electric charging network insufficient, fleets may hesitate to adopt.

Conclusion

The new Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge Transporter flat-bed with double-cab (Pritschenwagen mit Doppelkabine) represents a thoughtful addition to the commercial-vehicle marketplace in Switzerland and beyond. By combining a six-seat cabin with a sizeable flat-bed, proven diesel and electric powertrains, and solid towing/payload capabilities, it addresses many of the demands faced by construction, forestry, landscaping and fleet-operations.

For buyers who frequently transport crews and materials together — particularly in settings where terrain is challenging or where emission restrictions exist — the model offers an attractive value proposition. The availability of an electric version furthers its relevance for future-facing fleets.

As always, the decision must align with the specific usage profile: if the team transport element is seldom used, or the cargo loads are extreme, other vehicle classes may be more appropriate. But for many mixed-use tasks, this vehicle stands out as a flexible and future-oriented solution.

In sum, VW NF is leveraging its long-standing expertise in the light commercial segment to offer a vehicle that is robust, adaptable and aligned with modern fleet and environmental demands.

 

Picture Gallery

 

References

1. Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge Schweiz — „Der neue Transporter“ model page.
2. Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge Switzerland press release — “Neuer Pritschenwagen mit Doppelkabine erweitert Transporter Programm”.
3. tir-transNews article “Neue VW Transporter Generation jetzt auch mit Doppelkabine”.
4. Automobil Revue article on the new Transporter.
5. Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge model overview page “Der Transporter 6.1 Pritschenwagen”.