Super-van! Top 8 Iconic Vans In Film and Television
They say the car is the star, but we reckon vans also deserve to have their moment in the spotlight as these iconic vans in film and television testify to...
Written by Jasmine Dolder
1. Reliant Regal Supervan (Only Fools and Horses)
This unique, three-wheeled, yellow vehicle was the main form of transport for the Trotter family throughout the series and has become an iconic symbol of the show, providing comical and constant laughs for viewers.
Through the comic relief the car provided it became iconic and synonymous with the series, further contributing to the show's impact on pop culture. In short, nothing says Peckham like a bright yellow three-wheeled Reliant Robin.
2. Mystery Machine (Scooby-Doo)
The Mystery Machine, based on a 1960s Ford Econoline, was a much a ‘meddling’ part of Scooby-Doo storylines as the protagonists were.
The premier of the TV-show in 1969 created the van in relation with the era, the bright turquoise, green and orange van with psychedelic flowers, fed into the ‘flower power’ phenomenon that would only grow more popular in the 70s.
Through the appearance and constant recurrence of the car made it so memorable and contributed to it becoming the sixth member of the group.
3. Postman Pat’s Van
This bright, red postal van became a staple in the ‘Postman Pat’ series. Based on a 1980 Lambretta Voiturette the van appeared in every episode, being shown in the theme song, leading to its prevalence in many children’s minds from 1981 to present day.
We have to wonder though, if Postman Pat was reimagined for 2025, would it be a cartoon Peugeot Partner?
4. A-Team Van
We pity the fool who hasn’t come across the iconic A-Team van, playing a pivotal role in one of the most popular action series of the 20th century.
The black 1983 GMC Vandura with the iconic red logo and stripe appeared in all 98 episodes of the series and is one of the main reasons for it being so memorable.
It defined the show as a cool, different, exciting show that the van became a very recognisable symbol for, among its large viewership. It also meant Mr T. didn’t have to get on no plane.
5. Toy Story Pizza Planet Truck
The ‘truck’ operated mainly by many of Andy’s toys was heavily inspired by a Toyota pickup truck and was a staple in the second and third movies of the Toy Story franchise.
The white and yellow vehicle with a branded rocket strapped to the top of the car aided the toys with many quick getaways, making the van so memorable and iconic during the movie franchise.
6. Mutt Cutts Van (Dumb and Dumber)
The Mutt Cutts Van is a 1984 Ford Econoline van, though you wouldn’t know under all that felt that has been modelled to resemble a dog. It was used by the main character for his pet grooming business and led to hilarious shenanigans in this 1994 comedy. It had giant canine features that defined its significance and was definitely one of the film’s most memorable take-aways.
7. Mater (Cars)
The lovable, comedic and cheerful tow truck who is the best friend of Lightning Mcqueen. He’s based on a 1951 International Harvester L-170 and a mid-1950s Chevrolet, and with his rusty brown exterior it portrays the essence of how a simple life and happiness is both achieved.
A fan favourite vehicle in Pixar’s ‘Cars’ franchise who provides emotional support, heroism and friendship which all contribute to him being so memorable, a large part of children’s lives and an addition to the list of most famous vans.
8. The Indestructible Toyota Hilux (Top Gear)
We’ve had heroic vans, characterful vans and resourceful vans in this ranking so far, but while this one – a Toyota Hilux pick-up truck - didn’t play a particular role in a tv programme or film, it was most definitely heroic in its own right.
Starring in a segment on Top Gear, the presenters subject this hapless Hilux to a rigorous test to find out if it could live up to its reputation as reliable, sturdy workhorse that just kept going. And boy, did they put it to extremes!
It was driven off stairs, bricks were dropped on it, it was left to battle high-tide on the beach, it was released by a crane, it had a head-on collision, it was set on fire and was then placed atop a 23-storey building that was then demolished. Despite all this, with only a few mechanical repairs, it kept on starting... a true hero of automotive resilience.