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In light of the mounting climate crisis and the increase of clean air zones in urban environments, the question of whether to opt for a diesel or electric-powered van has never been more pressing. Most mainstream manufacturers offer a varied range of both diesel and electric vehicles these days, so when it comes to making your next commercial van purchase, it is essential that you consider both options to determine which would be best for your needs.
The Citroen Dispatch has seen widespread popularity since first emerging on the market in 1994. When the third-generation model launched in 2016, the Dispatch boasted a complete redesign from the ground up, making use of the Efficient Modular Platform 2 (EMP2) that also underpins the Peugeot Expert, Fiat Scudo, Toyota Proace and Vauxhall Vivaro. This modern medium van offers a pleasant driving experience and high payload ratings.
Thanks to the popularity of the diesel model, an electric variant was launched in the UK in late 2020. Considered to be one of the most credible electric vans you can buy, the Citroen e-Dispatch not only offers the quality that drivers have come to expect from the Dispatch, but also provides a range sufficient enough to even challenge the capability of traditional diesel models.
Read on to find out more about each model and which would be the best fit for you and your business.
Engines and Spec
As mentioned above, the Citroen Dispatch underwent a huge facelift for its third-generation model, a fact that is evident in its engine choice. The Dispatch offers a choice of two 1.5-litre diesel engines, with either 102hp or 120hp, and two 2.0-litre engines with 145hp or 180hp. The smaller engine is better suited for getting around town, whereas the 2.0-litre 145hp model is the one to go for if you want to make the most of the van’s payload capacity. With 340 Nm of torque it is ideal for heavy duty work, and its additional strength means that it’s more comfortable at higher speeds. As of 2023, the Dispatch will be available in just two trims – the Enterprise Edition and Driver Edition – both of which come with sizable amounts of safety kit.
Turning to the e-Dispatch, there are two battery packs on offer: 50kWh and 75kWh. Citroen boasts a whopping 211 miles of range for the 75kWh model, with the 50kWh dropping to 148 miles. These numbers could naturally be impacted by weather conditions and how much weight is in the back, but they are nonetheless impressive. Utilising Citroen’s modular electric car platform, the electric motor is the same 136hp, 260Nm package you’ll find in its electric cars. The single-speed gearbox combined with an almost silent engine makes for a smooth, comfortable ride. The e-Dispatch’s controls are simple to use, the biggest difference being the appearance of an electric handbrake switch on the driver’s seat side. If you’re transitioning to an electric van from a traditional Citroen Dispatch, you’re bound to find it all very familiar.
Interior
When comparing the interior of both vans, there are actually very few differences between the Dispatch and the e-Dispatch. When it comes to the Dispatch, there are a number of small storage compartments dotted around the cab, and a larger space underneath the passenger bench. You can opt for a Moduwork load-through bulkhead which comes with a twin passenger bench that has a fold-flat outer seat and middle seat back that folds down to form a desk. This enhances the cab’s practicality tenfold as it allows you to load much longer items without having to secure them to the outside of the van. There are also a number of high-tech add-ons available, including a head-up display and a touchscreen infotainment system.
Moving onto the e-Dispatch, the two-seater bench flips up to reveal a large split storage area, allowing space for the Moduwork load-through flap and providing a big enough space to store personal items. There are a couple of handy storage boxes on the dashboard, and the door bins are generous. Apart from the switches that replace gears and a handbrake, the only other indication of the switch to electric is the differences on the instrument cluster, which clearly displays how much power is being used, how much range is left and how much power is being regenerated when the van slows down.
When it comes to payload, there is naturally a slight reduction for the e-Dispatch due to the engine placement slightly encroaching upon the load space. In the Dispatch, the highest payload rating is currently available in the mid-length model, with the 145hp option able to carry up to 1,446kg. By comparison, the e-Dispatch’s ratings for all versions range between 1,000kg-1,002kg.
The Verdict/Snap shot
Both the Dispatch and e-Dispatch make great commercial vans for a number of industries. While the Dispatch is better suited to heavy-duty tasks, the e-Ducato can go the distance and is naturally great for improving the carbon footprint of your business.
Vanaways stocks both the Citroen Dispatch and Citroen e-Dispatch in a variety of body types, including panel van and crew van varieties. For more information, give us a call on 0117 428 7721.
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