As the concerns regarding the environment and sustainability have taken center stage, the need for eco-friendly transportation is at an all-time high. Apart from helping the environment, adding these vans to your fleet will also offer a host of valuable business benefits.

Let’s explore the advantages of an eco-friendly van fleet, the top recommendations, and how to choose them.

Why a Sustainable Fleet with Eco-Friendly Vans?

Help the Environment

One of the most significant reasons to add eco-friendly vehicles like all-electric or hybrid vans to your fleet is the responsibility to protect our planet. The vehicles with traditional combustion engines are powered by fossil fuels and emit harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to air pollution and climate change.

Eco-friendly vans, on the other hand, generally use cleaner energy sources, like electricity or hybrid technology, to considerably reduce emissions.

Cost Savings

While electric vans can have a higher initial investment compared to traditional vans, the long-term cost savings are substantial. Thanks to their efficient design and advanced technologies, the eco-friendly vans have lower fuel and maintenance costs.

Moreover, governments generally offer incentives and tax breaks to businesses adopting greener transportation solutions.  For instance, the plug-in vehicle grant in the UK currently stands at £2,500 for smaller vans and £5,000 for larger vans. This helps in further reducing the ownership costs.

Compliance with Regulations

As most governments have started taking cognizance of environmental degradation, the laws regarding vehicle emissions are only expected to get more severe in the future. Thus, it makes sense to add greener vans to your fleet to future-proof your business and ensure compliance with the regulations.

In the longer run, this will save you time and resources, enabling you to avoid fines and penalties for non-compliance.

Boost Brand Image

Even consumers are becoming increasingly environment-conscious and prefer dealing with businesses that share their values. By adding eco-friendly vans to your fleet, you’ll not only reduce your carbon footprint but also boost your brand image.

Your commitment to sustainability can attract more environmentally-conscious customers and partners, ultimately leading to a surge in your reputation and revenue.

Improved Business Efficiency

The latest eco-friendly vans come equipped with advanced technologies to enhance business efficiency. For instance, electric vans have regenerative braking systems and can be easily integrated into smart fleet management solutions, allowing you to optimize routes and reduce energy consumption.

This improved efficiency translates into lower operational costs and improved productivity for your business.

Top 5 Eco-Friendly Vans for 2023

Now that you know some of the top reasons to add eco-friendly vans to your fleet, here are some recommendations you can consider-

1.  Nissan Townstar- Starting from £37,014

If your fleet is mostly made up of smaller vans and you’re planning for expansion, Nissan Townstar is one of the best options. Nissan Townstar has replaced the very popular e-NV200 by the brand and is super impressive with all of its tech features and payload capacity.

The compact van is available in two variants- all-electric and petrol. Moreover, Nissan has unveiled two versions of the van- L1 and L2 to fulfill diverse transportation needs. The L1 comes with a cargo space of 3.9m3, while L2 offers a load space of 4.3m3. One of the highlights of the all-electric Townstar is its driving range of up to 183 miles.

Moreover, the van is available across four trims, starting from the entry-level Visia and followed by Acenta, Tekna, and Tekna+. The top-end Tekna+ is equipped with a host of additional features, including an all-view 360° monitor, park assist, cruise control, blind spot intervention, traffic sign recognition, heated leather steering wheel, and more.

2.  Renault Kangoo E-Tech Z.E. – Staring from £33,055

Since its launch in 2011, the Renault Kangoo has occupied a considerable market share in the compact van segment in Europe. The French automobile company has launched an all-electric version of the van, Kangoo E-Tech Z.E., to compete with other brands in the segment.

Equipped with a 44kW ZOE R90-inspired engine, Kangoo E-Tech is available in dual cargo versions. The shorter-length van has a loading space of 3.9m3 and the longer variant has a more generous 4.9m3 loading area. At 186 miles, its driving range is slightly better than what is offered by Nissan Townstar.

Kangoo E-Tech Z.E. is available in two interior trims- Advance and Extra (Advance+). While the Advance model is equipped with 16” steel wheels, a radio with Bluetooth, a USB socket, and manual air-conditioning, the Extra variant offers automatic monozone air-conditioning, 8” touchscreen with EASY LINK navigation, and passenger seats, and a mobile office.

3.  Citroen e-Berlingo- Staring from £32,225

The Berlingo van was first introduced back in 1996 and the 3^rd generation of this popular model was launched in 2018. But Citroen ditched the traditional combustion engine and released the 4^th generation, e-Berlingo, in 2022 to keep up with the growing electric trend.

The electric van is available in two lengths- M (4.4m) and XL (4.75m). The M variant has a boot capacity of up to 3,000ltrs when all the seats are folded. With the XL variant, you have a boot space of up to 3,500ltrs with folded seats.

Citroen e-Berlingo is powered by a 50kWh battery and offers a driving range of 150-180 miles. The compact van is available in two trims- Feel and Flair XTR with a range of optional factory-fitted equipment, including advanced grip control, auto-dimming electrochrome rear view mirror, front and lateral parking sensors, voice recognition, and more.

4.  2023 Ford E-Transit- Staring from £42,695

If you’re looking for the best eco-friendly van for your fleet, the 2023 Ford E-Transit is another great option. Ford introduced the electric version of this famous commercial van in 2020 and it has been a big hit since then. The E-Transit is hooked up with a powerful 68kWh battery pack which offers a range of up to 186 miles.

Moreover, to ensure the electric van suits varying business needs, it is available in three roof heights, three lengths, and three different models- chassis cab, cutaway, and cargo van. The 2023 Ford E-Transit is also available with Pro Power Onboard which offers 2.4kW of power and can be used for powering a wide range of tools, including circular saws, jackhammers, and more.

But while there’s no doubt that the Ford E-Transit is an excellent commercial van, the entry price of above £40,000 can be a bit too steep for many small and medium businesses. However, if you do have the budget, this is indeed the top choice.

5.  Peugeot e-Partner- Staring from £31,262

After e-Expert, Peugeot has added another feather to its all-electric crown with e-Partner. Like the standard Partner, the e-Partner uses the same EMP2 platform but an electric-optimized architecture to ensure a smooth driving experience with a spacious cargo area.

Equipped with a 50kWh battery pack, e-Partner offers a driving range of up to 150 miles on a full charge. It is available in two lengths- L1 (Standard) and L2 (Long) with the optional Worksite Pack. There’s also a Multiflex rear seat option which can increase the useful length of L1 from 1.81m to 3.09m and L2 from 2.16m to 3.44m.

The electric van comes equipped with advanced features like surround rear vision, overload indicator, and an 8” or 10” touchscreen display. Moreover, to keep up with the specific business needs, e-Partner can be purchased in various specifications, including Grip Premium, S Premium, Professional Premium, and Asphalt Premium.

Features to Look Out for in Eco-Friendly Vans

Now that we’re done with some of the top eco-friendly van recommendations for your fleet, let’s take a quick look at some of the top features you should look out for when making the selection-

Range

As the vehicle is powered by an electric battery, it is essential to check its range on a single charge. Ensure it can cover the typical daily mileage of your business operations without the need for frequent charging. Don’t forget to consider the impact of factors like weather conditions and payload weight on the driving range.

Charging Infrastructure

Evaluate the availability of charging infrastructure in your area. Consider whether you’ll need to install charging stations at your business premise or you can rely on the existing public charging network.

Charging Duration

Know the vehicle’s charging time, especially if you generally have very tight delivery schedules. Faster charging capabilities can help minimize downtime. Many of the vans also come with a fast-charging feature where the battery can be recharged up to a certain extent within a shorter duration.

Payload Capacity

Determine the electric van’s payload capacity. Make sure it can comfortably accommodate the goods or equipment you’ll be transporting regularly without exceeding the weight limits. Apart from steep penalties, excess weight can also damage the van and can also result in safety issues.

Size and Configuration

Determine the van’s size and configuration to ensure it can fulfill your business needs. You might need a larger van if the work involves bulk cargo delivery or a compact van like Nissan Townstar or Renault Kangoo E-Tech Z.E. should be sufficient for urban deliveries.

Safety Features

Prioritize safety features like advanced driver assistance systems, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

A Sustainable Fleet for a Greener Tomorrow and Improved Business Performance

Integrating sustainable eco-friendly vans into your business fleet is one of the most effective ways to help the environment and accelerate your business. It can help you save money, boost your business reputation, and help you align with the evolving regulations.

If the high upfront investment is not a practical choice for your business, van leasing can be an excellent option. With this, you can get into a long-term contract with the leasing company and typically pay a monthly fee for the usage. It is a cost-effective, convenient, and flexible way to make the transition to eco-friendly vans for your business.

The New 2023 Electric Hybrid Ford Ranger – Where Ford is Headed

At Swiss Vans, we want to continue to provide you with the information you need to know about all kinds of hybrid and electric vehicles, charging stations, and UK government policies and available grants. We are excited about the forward movement to all-electric vehicles to help protect our environment. With so many topics to discuss in this area, today our focus is on a new version of a popular pickup truck.

Ford has some exciting things to show us in their 2023 Ford Ranger hybrid model. This article highlights what we know about this new model coming to the UK in 2023.

About Ford

Headquartered in Michigan, USA, Ford was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. It is still one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world. Still family owned, William Clay Ford, Jr. runs the company in his role of executive chairman. Known for long-term innovation, Henry Ford and Thomas Edison worked together in the early days to innovate on parts and new technologies for the early Ford vehicles.

From the earliest of automobile designs to today’s most innovative technologies, Ford continues to manufacture some of the top cars and trucks in the world. Based on what we are seeing, the new Ford Ranger coming out in 2023 will not disappoint.

What is Ford Promising us in this new Hybrid Truck?

This mid-size pickup truck has been a popular choice for a long time. With the hybrid model coming soon, it will certainly keep its status in the market. What is said to be called the Ford Ranger Raptor, this new plugin model will produce around 362 horsepower. While not yet fully electric like other Ford vehicles, Ford is on the journey to producing this Ranger model as an all-electric version over time. Still early in the process, Ford seems to be looking to their customer base to understand their priorities and needs in their journey to all-electric.

What is Ford’s Journey to All-Electric with the New Ford Ranger?

This hybrid Ford Ranger truck coming in 2023 is the beginning of the journey to more electric trucks and vehicles for this Ford model. This plugin-hybrid model is a starting point that Ford can easily springboard from. They thought ahead in building an innovative platform that allows for incremental upgrades to get to a full electric version of the Ford Ranger over time without rebuilding the platform.

The New Design

Making a substantial change, this 2023 Ford Ranger was designed and engineered in Australia. With a more block-like look, it brings the more rounded look of earlier models to look more like other mid-size pickup trucks. This modern design will come in 2 body styles that are said to be a few inches longer and wider than previous models. Ford is not yet releasing the full specifications, but they are looking to release a better-balanced model that will work to provide a great journey for those using the truck for work and those using it for personal use.

From the side view, it sounds like the new Ranger will look like the earlier version but with a more modern look on the doors and the full body. The headlights and taillights are available in either halogen or LED. With other remote monitoring options like remote start, lock and unlock, and other connected features available on the app, there is a lot to look forward to in this new model.

Expected Interior Upgrades

Ford seems to be focused on some big improvements on the interior of the new Ford Ranger model. This new modern looking pickup truck uses advanced technologies like a touch screen mounted on the dashboard to manage entertainment and cabin and drive features. It sounds like there will be a lot packed into this new touch screen including the off-road options and modes. The touch screen will be available in 2 sizes.

Other upgrades include a larger center console, more space in the door storage area, a larger upper glove box, and more storage in the bins located under the back seats. There are also some technology upgrades expected, like a 360-degree camera and a wireless phone charging station.

Expected Driving and Vehicle Upgrades

This new model will have improved performance, road handling, durability, and overall efficiency. The upgraded chassis, longer wheelbase, and wider track allows for more space for the driver, passengers, and the cargo. The longer wheelbase not only gives you more space, but it also sets you up for a better off-road driving experience. Dual recovery hooks located in the front bumper, makes recovering from off-road challenges a lot easier. You can go off-road without worry in this new model.

Where Ford is Headed

While Ford is not going completely all-electric out of the gate on this model, they are clearly moving in that direction. They plan to listen to customer needs and prioritize what they invest in based on those needs. With over 100 years of experience, Ford can move fast here to address these customer needs quickly.

The upgraded platform was designed to allow for the future of electrification. This was a smart move as it allows Ford to add more electric options over time and as the demand increases. They will continue to see the gas and diesel vehicles for the time being to support those customers who are not ready to move to electric vehicles.

Stay Tuned

There is so much happening in the electric vehicle space here in the UK and all around the world. Whether it be groundbreaking innovation in electric vehicle design, updates in UK government support and grants, new innovative ways to make electric vehicle charging more accessible, or just some very cool new features, we can help keep you informed.

There are plenty of things to discuss and we at Swiss Vans will continue to bring you the highlights and breaking news. If you have any questions about the new hybrid Ford Ranger pickup or any other popular models, don’t hesitate to contact us.
New VW Amarok
Holiday Offer
Amarok Launch
Defender Vans

As 2018 rolls by the lines between Diesel vs Petrol vs Electric is becoming blurred, and  with the Geneva motor show in full swing it’s clear to see that every car manufacturer is finally serious about battery power.

From Jaguar with their i-pace

The Jaguar I-PACE, our first all-electric vehicle, will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show this week. You can find everything you need to know about the I-PACE here. #Jaguar #IPACE #GimsSwiss #MondayMotivation pic.twitter.com/ZB6NULhlxV

— Jaguar_UKPR (@JaguarUKPR) March 5, 2018

through to Tata touting their E-vision (via Jaguar Land Rover partnership)

You have seen the teasers.
You have taken your guesses.
Now it’s time for the reveal!
Presenting the E-VISION Sedan Concept, a special concept car to mark our 20th year at the @gimsswiss.#20YearsOfTataAtGIMS #GIMS2018 pic.twitter.com/vzg6CJaO0Q

— Tata Motors (@TataMotors) March 6, 2018

However these are all consumer cars, the question is how competitive and more importantly good are commercial electric vans? Especially when compared to their Diesel and Petrol counterparts?

There are, at the moment a few questions to ask, when it comes to considering whether to purchase / lease a diesel, petrol or electric van

1. What is your budget
2. What is your payload
3. What is your distance / route
4. How long do you keep your vehicles.

There are a few more questions which may also be applicable, but for now, let’s use the above to justify whether an electric van is a suitable option.

Budget,

Why is this important?

Aside from the obvious i.e. how much you have to spend, the cost of batteries must also be taken into consideration.

Lithium isn’t cheap! Currently all vehicles run on lithium ion batteries, the distance is proportional to the size of the battery which in turn dictates the cost.

Just a few years ago the cost a Tesla car was estimated to be 50% battery, but over the past 6 years Lithium ion costs have dropped by about 80%

So what do you get for your money?

Let’s take a look at the

Renault e-Kangoo

Price / Cost
The starting price is: around £17,000 on top of this you will require a monthly battery hire, (this is calculated based on the amount of miles per month) for 6k miles a year this is £780 a year or £65 a month.

Miles per gallon

Naturally electric cars don’t go via miles per gallon, rather a range, bear in mind to keep the price down the battery is smaller than those used in a lot of the latest electric cars

This E-Kangoo has a a full NEDC range of 170 miles*

*Please note that like ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) counterparts, this figure is optimal, and can vary due to:

• Driving styles
• Driving conditions, i.e. terrain
• Payload
• Passengers

Batteries are also adversely affected by temparature, optimal running temperature is 20 Degrees, which, if like us you live in Wales accounts for approxiamtely 2 days of the year, followed by 363 days of rain, not really, but, with the recent winter temperatures below 0 Degrees and a payload of 500Kg can take this van from 170 miles -> 95 miles (average speed 50mph)

Cost of Refueling

This is where electric vehicles come into their own, a fully charged battery can cost as little as £2.50.

Using this cost and fairly terrible conditions as above that’s

£2.50 per 95 miles.
or £10 for approximately 400miles**

**Little leeway in there for temp / speed / and assuming payload would decrease on return.

That’s pretty cheap, given these are not using optimal figures.

So what of Petrol vans

Let’s take a similar sized van, the Ford Connect Double Cab petrol 1.0 Eco Boost.

Price / Cost
Starting price for this is around £16,270

Miles per gallon

Stated miles per gallon are 50.4 Miles per gallon
and c02 – 129g/km however these like battery vans are optimal figures.

Cost of Refueling

Therefore if we compare this to the electric van £10 will equate to roughly 94miles*. of course this is at optimal speed, weight and conditions.

(* 50.4mpg = 11 miles per litre, average cost per litre of petrol £1.17, so 8.54 litres = £10 x 8.54 = 94 miles)

The final choice is of course is

Euro 6 Diesel

For simplicity we’ll take the same Ford Connect, this time with a diesel.engine. –

Side note did you know the diesel engine was invented in 1890’s by Rudolf Diesel, some of the reasons why commercial vehicles use Diesel is:

• Better Mileage
• Power (Torque) maximised at much lower Revs (compression 17:1 vs 9:1 for petrol)
• Longevity of engine

However, back on point.

Price / cost

Arriving smack bang in the middle of the two at £16.070

Miles per gallon

With start stop and a 1.5 TDci engine this connect has an average mpg of 65.7 and c02 111g/km

That said and in keeping with the calculations of an average petrol version we see £10 equates to –

(* 65.7mpg = 14.45 miles per litre, average cost litre diesel £1.19, so 8.40 litres – £10 x 14.45 = 144.5 miles)

So what is the best choice Diesel vs Petrol vs Electric?

Simply put.

• Short inner city journeys with light loads may well suit electric vans.
• Medium journeys either inner city or rural and with heavier loads will favour either petrol or diesel.
• Long journeys with heavy loads and Diesel is still the preferred choice.

It’s clear to see that the future is electric, at one point it looked very likely the fastest electric van may yet bring the electric evolution sooner than we thought, check out Edna

Unfortunately Edna is no more and has morphed into another consumer electric car, the lucid air from the guys at Lucid

What do you think?

Are you moving from Diesel to Petrol or taking the early plunge for electric?

Did you spot we left out hybrids? Check out the post on the upcoming Ford Hybrid, this could well be the solution to bridge the gap from petrol / diesel to fully electric.

Let us know in the comments below.