Electric vans provide numerous advantages, including zero emissions for tasks like parcel deliveries, which significantly improve air quality in cities. They are cost-effective to run, operate quietly, and are user-friendly. However, the range of electric vans varies significantly, so we've compiled a list of vans with the longest electric range (official WLTP range) to help you choose the most suitable battery-powered van for your needs.
10. Mercedes-Benz eVito: 162 miles
Mercedes-Benz has revamped its approach to electric van ranges, addressing a shortcoming. The 2022 revamped eVito now boasts a significantly improved 162-mile range, attributed to the expansion of the battery pack from 41kWh to 66kWh. This revitalisation could bolster Mercedes-Benz's standing in the medium van sector, enhancing its competition with key rivals.
9. Vauxhall Combo-E, Citroen E-Berlingo, Peugeot E-Partner & Toyota Proace City Electric: 171 miles
The Citroen e-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Partner, Toyota Proace City Electric, and Vauxhall Combo Electric share common underpinnings and benefit from Stellantis' battery technology. They feature a 50kWh battery providing a range of up to 171 miles on a single charge. These compact electric vans come in L1 and longer L2 body styles, offering a maximum capacity of up to 3.3 cubic meters and a payload of 800kg. With three front seats, they offer versatility in a small footprint.
Fast-charging is supported through CCS technology at up to 100kW, allowing for an 80 percent charge in around half an hour, making them suitable for quick turnaround times. The vans offer three driving modes with varying power levels, with the highest setting delivering sharp responses when not heavily loaded. Toyota's version stands out with a 10-year service warranty, a longer coverage period compared to its Stellantis counterparts.
8. Maxus eDeliver 9: 185 miles
The eDeliver 9, the larger counterpart to the eDeliver 3, strikes a balance between size and range. Remarkably, it showcases a strong range for a large van, boasting three battery options. The 185-mile range is attributed to the largest battery pack, which is exclusively available in the long-wheelbase version. While its payload capacity of 860kg might raise eyebrows, it still manages to outperform some of its larger counterparts in the payload department.
7. Renault Kangoo E-Tech: 186 miles
Renault has introduced a new generation of their electric Kangoo, now badged as E-Tech. This update comes with a significant improvement in range, offering up to 186 miles on a single charge. Additionally, CCS DC rapid charging is now available for faster recharging. The van is equipped with a 90 kW motor and a 45 kWh battery, capable of carrying payloads of up to 600kg in a 3.9 cubic meter load area.
6. Ford E-Transit: 196 miles
Ford's journey into the realm of fully-electric vans has been deliberate, and the high-powered E-Transit signifies the brand's entry into the electric van market. This electric version of the UK's top-selling large van fills a much-anticipated gap. One noteworthy feature is Ford's exploitation of the government's allowance for fully-electric vans to operate at a maximum gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 4.25 tonnes on a standard driving license, expanding the potential payload to 1758kg.
5. Vauxhall Vivaro Electric, Citroen e-Dispatch, Peugeot E-Expert Toyota Proace Electric & Fiat e-Scudo: 205 miles
A family of nearly identical medium-sized electric vans is likely to be your top choice if you're in the market for one. These models, although branded differently with minor cabin variations, offer competitive prices and one of the longest electric van ranges in the UK, reaching up to 205 miles with the 75kWh battery option.
They boast a generous cargo volume of up to 6.6 cubic meters, especially with the optional thru-loading bulkhead, and can handle payloads of up to 1,275kg, closely matching their diesel counterparts. However, keep in mind that a full load can reduce the van's overall range.
Fast-charging up to 100kW is available, allowing the 50kWh battery to reach 80 percent charge in half an hour and the larger 75kWh battery in 45 minutes. Standard features include a 7.4kW charging system, with an optional 11kW charger for those with tight schedules.
4. Fiat E-Ducto: 230 miles
The Italian contender offers a wide range of customisation options for electric van buyers, including 28 body styles with 3 lengths and 3 heights, a chassis cab variant, and a passenger version accommodating up to 9 seats. It boasts generous cargo volumes and can reach gross vehicle weights of up to 4.25 tonnes (subject to licensing). Payload capacity goes as high as 1.9 tonnes. The van offers two battery options, 47kWh and 79kWh, providing ranges of 146 miles and 230 miles, respectively. Fiat has also enhanced the recharging capability, with a maximum 50kW charge that can replenish 80% of the smaller battery in 50 minutes and the larger one in 1 hour and 25 minutes.
3. Renault Zoe Van: 245 miles
While it might not accommodate hefty loads or vast quantities, the Renault Zoe serves as a brilliant solution for urban environments or couriers in need of extensive range. The 107hp electric motor is fueled by a 52kWh battery pack, with a standard 7kW home wallbox charger achieving a full charge in just under 9.5 hours. The massive range often means that daily charging is unnecessary.
For those concerned about cargo capacity, the van offers 1 cubic meter of space, allowing room for 387kg of cargo.
2. Mercedes eSprinter: 248 miles
The eSprinter provides up to 11 cubic meters of cargo space and recently received a significant update in 2023, increasing its battery capacity to 113kWh, resulting in a maximum range of 248 miles. It also boasts quick recharging capabilities, with up to 115kW charging, allowing for a 10 to 80 percent recharge in just 42 minutes.
1. Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo: 256 miles
The Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo is a standout electric van, blending retro charm reminiscent of the classic Type 2 with ample interior space and an impressive 256 miles of WLTP battery range, the highest on this list. It has been named the 2023 Electric Van of the Year. Equipped with a 201bhp rear-mounted motor, it offers brisk performance, accelerating from 0-62mph in 10.2 seconds, thanks to instant electric torque, making it ideal for city driving. Charging is quick, with the 77kWh battery capable of rapid-charging from 5 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes, ensuring more time on the road.