The electric van market is rapidly evolving, and 2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for businesses looking to switch to zero-emission commercial vehicles. With a growing emphasis on sustainability and reducing operational costs, electric vans are becoming an increasingly attractive option. Here, we review some of the best electric vans available in 2024, focusing on their practicality, range, and overall value for businesses.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo stands out in the electric van sector thanks to its unique blend of retro styling and modern technology. While it may not be the outright leader in terms of size or efficiency, its desirability factor is a significant advantage. The strong demand for the ID. Buzz translates to robust resale values, which can make lease costs surprisingly competitive, potentially even lower than some of its more conventional rivals.
Underneath its eye-catching exterior, the ID. Buzz Cargo shares the same platform as other Volkswagen Group electric vehicles, ensuring a car-like driving experience and a level of build quality that surpasses many utilitarian competitors. Practicality is also well-considered. Twin sliding side doors and the option of a lifting tailgate or rear barn doors provide excellent access to the 3.9 cubic metre load area. This space is capable of accommodating two Euro pallets, and the van offers a payload capacity of up to 607 kg. Multiple lashing rings are integrated into the floor and walls to secure cargo effectively. Impressively, the ID. Buzz Cargo can even tow up to one tonne, adding to its versatility.
Ford E-Transit
The Ford E-Transit made a significant impact upon its release in 2023, quickly establishing itself as a frontrunner in the large electric van category. Its appeal stems from a combination of compelling value, a useful driving range, practical design, and a refined driving experience. The comprehensive ‘Ford Pro’ support package further enhances its attractiveness, making it a strategically important vehicle for Ford.
In terms of practicality, the E-Transit doesn’t compromise compared to its diesel counterparts. It is available in a wide range of configurations, including three different lengths and two height options. Businesses can also choose from a bare chassis for custom conversions, a double-cab version for transporting crews, and various other body styles to suit specific needs.
At launch, the E-Transit boasted a class-leading range of up to 196 miles, depending on the specific variant. While recent advancements from competitors have slightly shifted the range rankings, the E-Transit remains a strong contender, offering ample range for most daily commercial operations.
Vauxhall Vivaro Electric
The Vauxhall Vivaro Electric is part of a family of closely related vans produced by Stellantis. This group includes the Peugeot Expert, Citroen Dispatch, and Fiat Scudo, all sharing similar underpinnings and design. Even the Toyota Proace is a cousin in this vehicle family. For 2024, these vans have received updates encompassing improved powertrains and enhanced cabin technology. While subtle differences exist in styling and specifications, the core functionality and features are largely consistent across the range. Therefore, focusing on the Vivaro Electric provides a representative overview of these models.
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The Vivaro Electric is a direct competitor to the Ford Transit Custom. For the 2024 model year, it features a 75kWh battery pack located beneath the load floor, powering a 134bhp electric motor. This updated battery provides a claimed range of up to 217 miles, a 12-mile improvement over the previous version. For charging, it supports up to 100kW DC fast charging, enabling a 5-80% charge in approximately 45 minutes, according to Vauxhall. A standard 7.4kW onboard AC charger is included, with an optional upgrade to an 11kW charger available.
The Vivaro Electric is offered in two body lengths: 4.98m and 5.33m. It provides a maximum load capacity of 6.6m3 and can accommodate items up to 4m long when equipped with the load-through bulkhead option. However, it’s worth noting that the load capacity and towing capacity are reduced compared to combustion engine versions, at around one tonne for each.
Choosing the right electric van for your business in 2024 involves considering factors such as range requirements, load capacity needs, and budget. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo offers style and strong resale value, the Ford E-Transit provides excellent practicality and range, and the Vauxhall Vivaro Electric and its siblings offer a solid balance of features and updated technology. As the electric van market continues to develop, these models represent some of the leading options for businesses transitioning to electric mobility.
