Top 5 Small Electric Vans

In the fast-paced landscape of modern transportation, small electric vans are making a big impact, offering a perfect blend of efficiency, sustainability, and versatility. As cities evolve and businesses adapt to eco-conscious practices, more drivers are switching to electric.

Picture bustling city streets, where manoeuvrability and efficiency are paramount – here, small electric vans reign supreme. But with a multitude of options available, which ones truly stand out from the crowd? Fear not, as we unveil our list of the Top 5 Small Electric Vans. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle fleet or an urban dweller looking to navigate congested streets with ease, compact electric vans are worth considering. From innovative designs to cutting-edge technology, each van on our list has earned its spot by delivering on the promise of efficiency without compromising on performance.

The Rise of Small Electric Vans

As the UK continues to expand its charging infrastructure and enhance the range of electric vehicles on offer, an increasing number of commercial vehicle drivers are opting for small electric vans. This reflects a significant shift in the preferences and priorities of drivers and businesses alike. Not only do compact electric vans contribute to the ongoing efforts towards environmental sustainability, but they also offer practical solutions tailored to the demands of urban mobility.

Van drivers, as well as fleet managers, are increasingly drawn to the economic and environmental benefits offered by these electric vans. From reduced operating costs to access to low-emission zones, the advantages of transitioning to a small electric van are becoming increasingly evident. Small electric vans are well-suited for many jobs, ranging from local deliveries to urban logistics. With that said, let’s dive into our selection of top small electric vans.

Citroen e-Berlingo

Our first compact electric van of choice is the Citroen e-Berlingo, combining quiet and easy electric driving with a robust set of features. This dynamic electric van is equipped with a 100kW electric motor seamlessly paired with a 50kWh capacity battery pack. The result? A vehicle that not only performs admirably but also champions sustainability with its emission-free driving.

One of the e-Berlingo's standout features is its impressive range, boasting an ability to cover up to 171 miles on a single charge. Also, charging this electric van is a breeze, thanks to its compatibility with a 100kW rapid charger, allowing the battery to jump from 0-80% in just 30 minutes. Alternatively, using a 7.4kW Wallbox takes around 7 hours and 30 minutes for a full charge. Moreover, the instant torque of the electric motor not only ensures a smooth ride but also adds a touch of nimbleness to the driving experience.

In terms of cargo space, the Citroen e-Berlingo does not disappoint. This small electric van offers flexibility in its configurations, available in two trim levels, two body lengths, and the choice between a panel van or a five-seater crew van. The loading volume ranges from 3.30 m³ to 3.80 m³ in Size M and from 3.90 m³ to 4.40 m³ in Size XL. While the payload capacity of up to 800 kg may not match its diesel counterpart, it stands as an equivalent to other popular models. Additionally, comfort reigns supreme within the Citroen e-Berlingo with plush interiors and intuitive features enhancing the overall driving experience.

While the initial purchase cost may be on the higher side, the e-Berlingo compensates with low running costs, promising a gradual cover of the upfront investment. In essence, the Citroen e-Berlingo excels in the small electric van segment, offering a compelling package of performance, versatility, and sustainability.

Nissan Townstar Electric

As the successor to Nissan's renowned e-NV200 panel van, the Nissan Townstar Electric emerges as a formidable small electric van. Powered by a robust 45kWh battery seamlessly integrated with a 90kW electric motor, it delivers an impressive range of up to 183 miles on a single charge. Whisper-quiet yet remarkably responsive, the Townstar's electric motor provides a driving experience that is both serene and exhilarating.

Inside the cabin, the Nissan Townstar Electric prioritizes driver and passenger comfort with well-designed and cozy seats, complemented by an advanced infotainment system. The cabin is expertly insulated, creating a serene environment that enhances the overall driving pleasure.

With a comprehensive lineup featuring four trim levels, the Nissan Townstar Electric caters to diverse preferences and needs. It offers flexibility in body lengths, presenting the standard L1 van with a loadspace length of 1,810mm or the L2 model with an extended loadspace length of 4,910mm. The L2 van boasts a substantial 4.3 m³ load volume, a max. payload (excluding the driver) of 788kg, and an impressive max. braked trailer weight of up to 1,500kg. Competitive pricing against other small electric vans positions the Townstar as an attractive option for businesses and individuals alike.

In summary, the Nissan Townstar Electric emerges as a versatile and efficient solution in the realm of electric vans. Nissan stands firmly behind the Townstar's reliability, offering a five-year/100,000-mile vehicle warranty. Furthermore, the battery, a critical component of electric vehicles, is covered for eight years. With its notable range, comfortable interior, and a variety of configurations to suit different needs, the Townstar Electric is an exciting commercial vehicle.

Renault Kangoo E-Tech

Up next, the Renault Kangoo E-Tech showcases cutting-edge technology and practical design, making it a standout choice in the small electric van market. Equipped with a 45kWh battery and a 90kW electric motor, it boasts an impressive driving range of up to 186 miles, depending on the version. Also, with various methods available, charging this electric van is both quick and easy. In particular, the Kangoo E-Tech can recharge from 20-80% in around 40 minutes with an 80kW rapid charger.

In urban settings, the eco mode takes centre stage, optimising battery capacity for enhanced efficiency. With 120hp and 245Nm of torque, the Kangoo E-Tech accelerates from 0-62mph in a swift 11.6 seconds and has a top speed of 81mph. Beyond its performance, the Renault Kangoo E-Tech ensures a comfortable and user-friendly driving experience, making it an ideal small electric van for urban driving.

The Renault Kangoo E-Tech is now available in two versions, L1 and L2, catering to diverse needs with a loading volume of up to 4.9 m³. This commercial vehicle exhibits great towing capabilities, with a max. braked weight of 1500kg and a reasonable payload of 764kg in the long-wheelbase version. As well, the innovative design places the battery beneath the floor, contributing to a lower centre of gravity and improved stability.

Additionally, safety takes precedence with the Renault Kangoo E-Tech, featuring up to 20 advanced safety and driver-assistance systems. These include rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, and active emergency braking, enhancing both the safety of occupants and pedestrians. Despite its cutting-edge features, this compact electric van remains competitive on price, making it an attractive option. With its impressive range, practical design, and robust performance, the Kangoo E-Tech sets a new standard for small electric vans.

Vauxhall Combo Electric

The Vauxhall Combo Electric stands out as a beacon of innovation, seamlessly combining practicality and sustainability. Boasting two trims, two lengths, and a crew van variant, it offers versatile solutions for various needs. The L1 model, available in both Prime and Pro versions, impresses with a remarkable max payload of 803kg, while the L2 version maintains an admirable max payload of 751kg. With a cargo space ranging from 3.8 to 4.4m3 and a load length of up to 2167mm for the L2 version, the Combo Electric ensures ample room for diverse cargo requirements. The Crew Van variant further enhances flexibility, accommodating 2 seats up-front and 3 in the second row.

With a max range of up to 175 miles, the Combo Electric empowers drivers to tackle their daily tasks with confidence. Fast charging capability is standard across all versions, allowing for quick top-ups of up to 80% in just 30 minutes using a 100kW fast charger, or convenient home charging via a Home Wallbox, delivering a full charge in just 7.5 hours. Also, driving modes are customisable with Eco, Normal, and Power options, allowing drivers to tailor their driving experience to suit their preferences. The Vauxhall Combo Electric comes with the standard Combo warranty of three years/60,000 miles, as well as an 8-year or 100,000-mile battery guarantee.

Externally, the Vauxhall Combo Electric exudes ruggedness and practicality, making a bold statement on the road. Inside this small electric van, the smart cabin layout mirrors that of its diesel counterpart, ensuring familiarity and ease of use for drivers. While safety features are abundant, they are mostly optional, allowing drivers to customise their commercial vehicle to meet their specific needs. The modern cockpit further enhances the driving experience, integrating advanced technology seamlessly into the driver's environment.

Toyota Proace City Electric

Lastly, the Toyota Proace City Electric epitomises excellence in electric van technology, blending efficiency, performance, and practicality. Equipped with a 50kWh battery pack and a powerful 100kW electric motor, it boasts an impressive electric range of up to 161 miles, ensuring confidence on every journey. Also, charging is a breeze with the Toyota Proace City Electric, providing the flexibility to achieve an 80% charge in approximately 32 minutes using a 100kW DC public charger. Alternatively, the convenience of a 7kW Wallbox AC charger delivers a full charge in around 7 hours, catering to different charging needs.

Additionally, the driving experience of this compact electric van is a delight, characterised by a quiet and comfortable ride. The Proace City Electric offers simplicity with just one trim level (Icon) and a choice of two body lengths, accommodating various preferences and cargo requirements. Depending on the version, it boasts a payload of up to 803kg, with a maximum trailer weight of 750kg (braked), and a spacious loadspace of up to 4.4m³, ensuring versatility for various cargo requirements.

The Proace City Electric doesn't compromise on practicality, featuring two sliding side doors and a spacious cab. As well, this commercial vehicle offers excellent visibility from a well-designed driving position. With a standard warranty of three years/100,000 miles, whichever comes sooner, and an additional coverage of up to eight years/100,000 miles for the battery pack, drivers can enjoy peace of mind and reliability. With pricing starting from £29,832.50 exc.VAT and Toyota's renowned reliability, we feel the Proace City Electric is a compelling contender in the small electric van market.

Small Electric Van FAQs

Leasing A Small Electric Van

Van leasing offers a cost-effective and easy way to experience the advantages of driving a new small electric van. With affordable fixed monthly payments and no hidden costs, van leasing emerges as an exciting option. With a van lease, you have the flexibility to put down a small initial rental, thereby avoiding the need for a substantial lump sum upfront.

Moreover, tailoring the electric van lease to suit your preferences becomes a seamless process. You choose the contract length, annual mileage, and the specific model that aligns with your requirements. To further enhance the convenience, servicing and maintenance can be seamlessly integrated into your lease agreement as an optional extra. This comprehensive approach ensures that your small electric van is not only a source of worry-free driving but also receives the necessary care and attention to maintain optimal performance.

For those new to van leasing and eager to grasp its intricacies, our friendly commercial leasing experts are here to answer all your questions. Whether it's understanding the nuances of contract lengths, exploring small electric van options or navigating the world of optional extras, we’re here to help. To discuss any of our van lease deals, contact GB Vehicle Leasing on 0161 667 5338 for more information. Whether you’re considering a business lease or personal lease, there’s a wide range of compact electric vans to choose from.