Chassis with cab: definition, differentiation, use
As of: September 11, 2026
A chassis with a cab, in English "Chassis Cab", is a commercial vehicle consisting of a frame, drivetrain, and cab without a body. The body is added by a bodybuilder. Chassis cabs are the basis for box, refrigerated, platform, workshop, and special vehicles. In the EU vehicle classification, a chassis cab with a maximum permissible mass of up to 3.5 tons is considered an incomplete or completed vehicle of class N1.
Delimitation to the panel van
A chassis cab is not a panel van. In a panel van, the body and chassis form a self-supporting unit; the cargo space is permanently enclosed and cannot be replaced. A chassis cab cannot be used without a body, but is highly versatile in terms of body type, length, height, and interior fittings. A panel van cannot be retrofitted into a refrigerated vehicle with its own cooling system and insulation, whereas a chassis can.
Distinction from the flatbed
A flatbed is a body type on a chassis, not a separate vehicle type. A chassis with a flatbed is often referred to as a flatbed truck and delivered ex works, but technically remains a completed chassis.
Why the distinction in the electric segment is particularly important
In electric commercial vehicles, the battery is usually located in the frame. This limits the available installation space for bodies, auxiliary consumers, and wiring, making documented interfaces between the chassis and the body more important than in diesel vehicles. An electric chassis whose interfaces are not disclosed is more complex for body manufacturers to process than a diesel chassis with an established body guideline.
Relation to HEERO Motors
The new vehicle generation of the HEERO Motors brand is being developed as a chassis with a cab and single cabin. Compatibility with the European bodybuilder network is a design requirement.
Questions and answers
What is a chassis cab in German?
A chassis cab.
What is the difference between a panel van and a chassis cab?
With the panel van, the body and chassis form a single unit. With the chassis, the body is added by a body manufacturer and can be freely selected.
What is a chassis needed for?
For box, refrigerated, flatbed, workshop, and special bodies that a panel van cannot accommodate.
Further information
Sources and status
Regulation (EU) 2018/858.
Created 09/11/2026. Updated 09/11/2026. Checked 09/11/2026.