The commercial vehicle sector has long been one of the most fiercely contested areas in the motoring industry, with various manufacturers striving to convince consumers and businesses of all sizes that their offering is finally superior to the Ford Transit. However, electric vehicles (EVs) are once again reshaping the landscape, as battery technology has advanced to the point where it can now deliver impressive ranges in larger vehicles such as vans.
With the high cost of fuel and the convenience of charging EVs at home, electric vans have become significantly cheaper to run and benefit from lower benefit-in-kind taxes. As a result, the appeal of electric versions of new and updated commercial vehicles has never been stronger, although petrol and diesel models remain available for those not yet ready to make the switch. Regardless of powertrain preference, consumers will be spoilt for choice this year with the vast array of vans hitting the market.
First and foremost is perhaps the most anticipated van of the year: the Ford Transit E-Custom. The Ford Transit range, particularly the medium-sized Custom, has achieved iconic status in the UK and has long been a staple for van owners and businesses alike. The new Transit is being offered in diesel, hybrid, and electric powertrains, with the diesel variant available in 107, 134, 148, or 168 bhp options (the 134 and 168 bhp models feature four-wheel drive).
On the other hand, the eagerly awaited E-Custom will be powered by a 74 kWh battery, with the choice of 134 or 215 bhp. While its range is relatively modest compared to its competitors at approximately 209 miles under normal conditions, the E-Custom can charge at rates of up to 125 kW, allowing the battery to be replenished from 10% to 80% in just 40 minutes. Moreover, all versions of the Transit Custom come equipped with the latest technology to maximise practicality, comfort, and functionality, including a fully digital instrument cluster and driver assistance features such as Traffic Sign Recognition. The chassis modifications to accommodate the battery also provide a more spacious interior and a greater payload capacity of over 1,100 kg.
Other notable features include "Delivery Assist," which, when enabled, closes the windows, locks the doors, and activates the hazard lights while parking, and "Mobile Office," which allows the steering wheel to be rotated to convert it into a worktable.
Ford has also upgraded its smallest van offering, the Transit Courier, in an effort to solidify its dominance in the commercial vehicle market in 2024. These upgrades include a complete visual overhaul, along with dimensional and structural changes to increase the maximum payload to 700 kg, as well as modernising the interior. Engine choices currently include a 123 bhp 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine or a 99 bhp 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine. Excitingly, an electric version with fast charging capabilities of up to 100 kW is expected to go on sale towards the end of 2024.
Next is a host of vans from the Stellantis brand, most notably the Peugeot Boxer, Fiat Ducato, Vauxhall Movano, and Citroën Relay, which are all large vans that have undergone major facelifts and internal upgrades to keep pace with the increasingly intense competition. Each of these vans has an electric counterpart with a 110 kW battery and regenerative braking. Other Stellantis vans have also received minor updates, with many gaining their own electric variants, such as the Peugeot Partner, Citroën Dispatch, and Fiat Scudo.
Renault, like Ford, is another brand known for taking commercial vehicles seriously, and the new Master is no exception. The electric variant of the Master makes efficient use of its 87 kWh battery, achieving a class-leading range of 255 miles. Crucially, 130 kW fast charging will restore 143 miles of range in just 30 minutes, while an array of 20 driver assistance features makes the Master an ideal choice for those prioritising safety. The Renault Master will also be offered with diesel engines from launch and a hydrogen fuel cell from 2025, with all models reflecting Renault’s recent design transformation.
As a result, the Master’s design has changed considerably, with significant updates to the LED lighting, front end, and overall shape, which Renault has refined to improve aerodynamic efficiency. The interior of the Master has also been completely revamped to be both more functional and visually appealing, featuring the latest infotainment and driver technology.
Toyota has also introduced its first large van to the British market in the form of the Proace Max, available with both diesel engines and an electric battery. The Proace Max shares technology with its Stellantis counterparts, thanks to the brand's decision to collaborate on commercial vehicle development. The diesel and electric variants boast payloads of 2,270 and 1,800 kg, respectively, offering substantial capacity. The Japanese brand has also made numerous improvements to its existing smaller vans, the Proace and Proace City.
Finally, the new Volkswagen Transporter is available in turbodiesel, hybrid, and electric variants. It closely resembles the critically acclaimed Transit Custom, aside from its styling, due to a collaborative agreement to develop them in parallel using the same technology. As a result, the Transporter, like its competitors, has grown in size and capability, with increased towing capacity and payload. However, unlike the Transit E-Custom, the e-Transporter will only have a small 54 kWh battery, providing a modest range of 82 miles.
Clearly, 2024 is set to be a significant year for vans and commercial vehicles, with many receiving substantial upgrades or facelifts. An increasing number of manufacturers are moving to electrify their offerings in an effort to entice consumers away from internal combustion engines. If the commercial vehicle market was not already saturated with potential choices, Kia has also announced a line-up of electric vans for 2025. Just as electric cars have surged in popularity over the past few years, it would not be surprising to see electric vans follow suit.