I wasn't really following the start of this thread so excuse me if I'm
butting in and a bit off topic, but I just learned another interesting bit
of info relative to modern van models...   They, Daimler/Chrysler, are
working on a Hybrid powered Sprinter...  granted the news is really 6 months
old, but it's new to me.

http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/dccom/0,,0-5-7165-1-456546-1-0-0-0-0-0-243-71
65-0-0-0-0-0-0-0,00.html
http://www.greencarcongress.com/2004/09/diesel_hybrid_s.html
http://www.austinchronicle.com/issues/dispatch/2004-10-22/pols_feature17.htm
l

Now, I have a reason to start saving money....  someday I'll be able to buy
my new dream car, a 4WD Hybrid Sprinter Camper Van to replace my Syncro.