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In recent years, the popularity of electric vehicles has skyrocketed as people increasingly seek to minimise their carbon footprint. When it comes to vans, it’s undisputed that diesel options boost powerful engines capable of coping with heavy payloads and make up the majority of vans on UK roads. However, electric vans are a cost-effective and environmentally-conscious choice that are equally capable of getting the job done.
Today, we’ll be taking a look at some electric dropside models to help you determine which e-van is best for you. We’ll examine the Fiat E-Ducato Dropside and compare it with its popular rival, the Ford E-Transit Dropside.
The Fiat E-Ducato is the 100% electric version of the Fiat Ducato large van. Like its diesel-powered counterpart, the electric Ducato is available in a wide range of body sizes and variants. There are many appealing perks to this vehicle – with an impressive driving range (up to 175 miles per charge) and equally commendable maximum payload (1,885kg), this is not a van to be underestimated.
Meanwhile, the hotly anticipated Ford E-Transit Dropside is set to be a hit everywhere. Offering significant advantages over the diesel Transit, this vehicle will give any large van buyer reason to pause for thought. With a powerful electric motor and ranking considerably cheaper than its rivals, the Ford E-Transit is the perfect choice for both pricing and performance.
If you’re curious about which van best suits your needs and requirements, read on to learn more about these two outstanding vehicles.
Engines and Spec
The Fiat E-Ducato offers two battery sizes – 47kWh and 79kWh. They mount under the van, so whichever version you go for it won’t have any impact on the load space, which is exactly the same as the diesel models. The smaller 47kWh battery capacity promises a WLTP driving range of 88-108 miles per charge, while the larger 79kWH battery capacity is reckoned to do 147-175 miles per charge. You’ll find three selectable driving modes – normal, power and eco – and a special automatic ‘turtle’ mode should battery life become critical. The Fiat E-Ducato features regenerative braking (which recovers energy as you slow down).
In comparison, the Ford E-Transit Dropside boasts an increased driving range: 196 miles per charge, putting it ahead of its competitors. The battery takes 8 hours to charge, but also has 115kW fast charging capabilities which can get up to 80% in 34 minutes. Like the Fiat, the battery can be constantly recharged whilst you drive with Ford’s regenerative braking system which recovers energy when you lift your foot off the accelerator. Plus with a 198kW power output, you’ll comfortably be able to carry larger loads.
Interior
The interior of the Fiat E-Ducato is based on the regular Ducato but with some subtle twists. You can find reliable storage options: a tray for keys or coins, twin cupholders and a good-sized upper glovebox with the option of a tablet computer holder that pulls out of the top of the dash, as well as a table with extra cupholders that folds out of the middle seats. Safety features have also been improved – the E-Ducato offers three new systems not previously available in its diesel counterpart. Rear cross-path detection will stop you from reversing into a vehicle or cyclist crossing behind you, full brake control will warn and assist you in avoiding rear-ending someone, and blindspot assist keeps an eye out for vehicles you can’t see.
The Ford E-Transit Dropside similarly provides you with a comfortable and practical interior. Featuring a futuristic driving experience like the diesel version, you’ll notice a 12-inch central touchscreen, fitted with a Sync 4 infotainment system that is easy to navigate and has excellent integration with smartphones and tablets. The displays around the cab clearly demonstrate how the battery’s energy is being employed, most clearly in the replacement of a traditional rev counter with a power-use indicator. For those confused by the brake-regeneration system, this process is made very understandable and it can help curate your own economical driving style. You’re in for a quiet ride with both these vehicles, as their cabins are good at providing insulation against wind noise.
The Verdict
Both these vans offer all the features and perks we’ve come to expect from electric models. The Fiat E-Ducato Dropside is a van that is often overlooked but offers a commendable amount of features that make it a vehicle worth considering. With tough, practical interiors and a quiet, comfortable ride, this van boasts plenty of storage space and an abundance of safety systems. Similarly, the Ford E-Transit Dropside is composed and quiet when driving but powerful when you need it the most with an excellent driving range. You should note that both these vans are on the more expensive side when it comes to outright prices, but equally these e-vehicles are indeed cost-effective investments in the long run due to their low running costs. Best of all, opting for either choice will cut your carbon emissions so you can cruise smoothly in the knowledge that you’re doing your bit to help the environment.
If you’re interested in one of these popular vans, get in touch with Vanaways today. Whether you’re after the Fiat E-Ducato Dropside or the Ford E-Transit Dropside, we’re proud to offer low-cost options that we’ll direct to your door thanks to our simple order process.
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