10 Types of Vehicles Used for Food Trucks [2022 Updated]

Thinking of starting a food truck business? It is a bright idea! Depending on your location and concept, it can be a profitable venture. Aside from crafting the right menu, another thing that can contribute to your success is the vehicle to use.

If you are clueless about the types of vehicles used for food trucks, read on and we’ll list down some of the top options. Picking the right one can spell the difference between success and failure, so make sure to give it a careful thought.

10 Types of Vehicles Used for Food Trucks in 2022

1. Volkswagen Westfalia Bus

Volkswagen buses have always been associated with the hipster culture. You can see hippies using the truck to roam around different places. It will make an iconic option for a food truck if you want something that evokes a distinct character. Not to mention, it is also picturesque.

The Westfalia is not a specific car from Volkswagen. Rather, it is a company that specializes in the conversion of Volkswagen vans. It has been a popular option for small motorhomes for those who do not like how bulky RVs are.

With proper conversion, a Volkswagen bus will make a great food truck. It often takes a lot of work, such as cutting the windows so that it can flip to have an outside counterspace.

2. Ford E-450 Cutaway

It is hard to go wrong with Ford if you are looking for a viable option for your food truck business. It has exceptional power and cargo capacity, making it worth the price. Some of the incredible features include a six-speed automatic transmission and electronic stability control.

One of the best things about the E-450 Cutaway is its versatility. It is like a blank canvas that you can customize the way you want it. You can build the body depending on what you envision your food truck to be.

3. Nissan NV2500 Cargo

Another option from a reliable brand, the NV2500 is a passenger van that can seat up to 12 people. There is a version that comes with a high roof to maximize storage space while also making it easy to move around if you want to convert it into a food truck.

With the convenient sliding door, there are few modifications that will be necessary when converting the Nissan Cargo Van into a food truck. You can fit more supplies and equipment in the van because it is spacious, so you can move easily while serving your patrons.

4. Citroen H Van

A quirky and classic option for a food truck, it is great if you would like to add a retro vibe on your business. With the right colors and other design elements, this is one truck that is sure to catch the eyes of your customers.

The Citroen H Van is from France. It is categorized as a panel van or light truck. It was made from 1947 to 1981, and less than 500,000 were manufactured. With such a limited quantity, consider yourself lucky if you can find one.

5. Ford Stepvan

The Ford Stepvan or Ford F59 is another option that is worth considering for your food truck business. The brand name alone is already a compelling reason to believe that its quality and performance will be second to none. It has the power you need for moving your food truck.

If you are clueless about how it looks, imagine FedEx vans. They are rectangular and boxy. One of the best things about a Ford Stepvan is that it has a spacious interior. You can fit your cooking equipment and other food truck essentials.

Those planning to make a food truck out of this van will need to make a wide opening, which will be the window or counter. This is where you will serve the food to your customers.

6. Airstream

Airstream has made a global name for their iconic travel trailers and touring coaches. It has a wide space that makes it another great option if you are looking for a food truck. It has a nostalgic and hippie vibe, that can help you attract customers.

However, one of the biggest problems about Airstream is its price. It can also be hard to find. Nonetheless, if budget is not an issue, then it is one possibility that is worth exploring.

The door of an Airstream is quite small, so you will need to create a service window. More so, you also need to work on the flooring and insulation, which you should construct while paying attention to ensuring proper balance.

7. School Bus

You do not need to buy a brand-new school bus to convert into a food truck. If you want to save money, then you should buy second-hand. The best thing about a school bus is that it is spacious. Plus, it has a comfortable platform where you can move around as you work.

Like in the case of other vehicles that you might want to consider in your food truck, one of the things that you can do is to remove the windows and create an open space for the counter. Removing the seats is also a must, which will let you create a wider interior.

8. Piaggio Ape

If you are looking for something more space efficient than traditional vans and trucks, then it is hard to go wrong with a Piaggio Ape. It is a three-wheeled and light-duty commercial vehicle, which has a Vespa scooter as its base.

A Piaggio Ape food truck can convert vintage and modern elements. This is perfect if you want a small food truck business with a limited menu. This is also ideal for small spaces and is easy to move around even in tight locations.

9. Ford Transit Full-Sized Van

As you might have noticed by now, Ford is one of the top options for the types of vehicles to use for food rucks. Their full-sized van is another spacious alternative that makes it easy to prepare food like a pro.

Like other vans, you will find a sliding door, which minimizes the need for complicated work during the conversion. All that you need is to open the door and serve your patrons. The large interior leaves a lot of space for a griddle, fridge, microwave, sink, and other essentials.

10. Tuktuk

If you have been to Thailand, then you will know what a tuktuk is. Also called an auto rickshaw, it is a trendy mode of travel that you can also consider for a food truck. One of the best things about it is that it is small, so it is space-efficient and easy to move around.

Converting a tuktuk in a food truck is easy. Minimal customizations are needed. However, the space is limited. To make your tuktuk food truck an attention-grabber, we recommend using neon lights and blasting loud music to encourage your customers to buy whatever you are offering.

Should I Get A Food Truck or Food Trailer