I'm part-time self employed outside of my normal 40hour week. I have a computer background in addition to electrical. So far I'm not encountering the kind of work that requires me to have a loaded 1-ton van handy at all times.
I'm looking at various station wagons.... possibly a Focus or Jetta, even a Mercedes 300TD caught my eye. Sprinter looks promising, but too new still for my budget. (Heck, a Liberty CRD is cheaper!)
I can always use the family vehicle (F350 crewcab) if I have a serious load of material or equipment to deliver.
