Van injures 18 in Shanghai crash

A van has crashed into pedestrians on a busy street in Shanghai, injuring 18, with three people serious.

At least 18 people have been injured after a van crashed into pedestrians on a busy Shanghai street. (AAP) Source: AAP

Eighteen people have been injured, three seriously, after a vehicle caught fire and mounted the pavement in a busy part of central Shanghai.

It is believed the fire began after the driver lit a cigarette inside the van.

Police suspect the driver was illegally transporting dangerous substances.

Witnesses said there were also gas cylinders in the vehicle.