The Top 5 Electric Vans by Payload

Electric Vans / Electric Van Reviews / The Top 5 Electric Vans by Payload

There’s a perception that electric vans are heavy and that the payloads they can take are lower than their diesel equivalents. This is partially true, the battery pack is weighty and can restrict how much load can be carried. Things aren’t quite that straightforward though – our Van Expert Tim Cattlin takes a look at the top 5 electric vans by payload.

OK, so just a quick note first about the larger vans. Normally, a large van has a maximum GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) of 3500kgs. This means that it comes under more relaxed rules around testing, driving licences and hours than heavier vehicles. But, as unladen electric vans are heavier than their diesel counterparts, potentially they have a lower payload. As a result, there is a derogation for electric vans meaning that they can have a GVM of 4250kg whilst (mostly) having the same regulations as the lighter, Diesel versions.

Citroen e-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Partner, Vauxhall Combo Electric, Fiat E-Doblo, Toyota Proace City Electric – 759kgs

Smaller vans are hit the hardest when it comes to the payload reduction you get in an electric version of an existing diesel van. Why? Because the battery pack is often of a similar size and weight as that in some of the larger vans so, with a much lower GVM than their larger siblings they are clearly going to take some pain. The Stellantis group has done a sterling job in retaining a decent payload in its award-winning small electric van. The Berlingo and its friends have always had a reputation for having class-leading carrying capabilities and this strength has been carried over to the electric derivatives.

The 759kgs is offered on the L1 van with its 3.3 cubic metres of loadspace, but if you need the 3.9cu/m volume provided by the L2, you’ll only drop down to 691kgs. In addition, with all these vans you’ll be able to tow a 750kg braked trailer and that’s not something possible on some other electric vehicles.

Fiat E-Scudo, Citroen e-Dispatch, Vivaro Electric, Peugeot e-Expert, Toyota Proace Electric, Iveco eJolly – 1210kgs.

All these medium vans share the same bodyshell and running gear as they’re all manufactured by the Stellantis group, even the Toyota and Iveco which are built by the Italian company thanks to a commercial agreement. I’ve taken the figure for the Vauxhall, although there are some minor variations across the different badges. What’s impressive though is that the longer and heavier L2 has a payload of 1138kgs, a figure that traditionally would have been considered acceptable for a diesel-engined medium panel van.

Farizon SV – 1350kg

This smart looking newcomer from China is available with a various combination of body sizes and battery packs, but even the heaviest at the kerbside can carry 1035kg, whereas the van with the biggest appetite for load can take a healthy 1350kg whilst keeping under 3500kg GVM. It’s got a decent drivetrain too, the electric motor producing 231PS and, depending on the battery pack you’ll see an official range from a full charge of 247 miles. Need to tow? The SV can pull a trailer weighing up to 2000kgs.

Fiat Ducato Electric, Citroen e-Relay, Peugeot E-Boxer, Vauxhall Movano Electric ,Toyota Proace Max Electric, Iveco eSuper Jolly – 1460kg

With a payload of up to 1460kg, the figure for the Fiat represents the other, mostly identical vans in the Stellantis range from Citroen, Peugeot and Vauxhall together with Toyota and Iveco offerings. Here’s another van taking advantage of the 4250kg GVM derogation which allows for this impressive figure providing you specify the medium wheelbase version with the lowest roof height available. This still has a load length of 3120mm and the range from a full charge is a very creditable 263 miles, model dependant.

Don’t be put off by looks that some might consider dated – I’ve driven the Ducato, it’s got a great cab, lots of advanced safety tech, a practical load area and it has deservedly won some major industry awards.

Ford E-Transit – 1758kgs

The E-Transit, the electric version of Britain’s best-selling large van is proving popular with fleets and small businesses alike, and it’s clear to see why. Utilising that 4250kg government dispensation, the van can offer a payload of up to a huge 1758kgs. And with the latest versions providing a range of up to 280 miles it’s practical, too. The E-Transit is offered in various lengths and heights and you’ve a choice of 184hp and 269hp motors. If you need a large electric van, the E-Transit is pretty hard to leave off your short list.