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To go electric or not? That is the big question facing anyone looking to purchase a new vehicle today. As the green agenda becomes ever more present, sustainability and fuel efficiency are at the forefront of discussions in the commercial vehicle industry. More and more frequently manufacturers, fleet managers, and tradespeople are choosing to go for electric or low-emission vans. However, choosing between electric and diesel vans can be tricky. Both have a lot of excellent features and, of course, their own specific limitations.
Innovative and adaptable, the Volkswagen Crafter boosts sharp design and excellent technological features that improve safety and reliability. It comes in a range of body types – available as a panel, luton, dropside and tipper – that make it an ultimately flexible van for a wide range of commercial contexts. Now its electric sister, the e-Crafter, has entered the market, adding a hot new contender to the electric car choices available.
Both diesel and electric versions of the Crafter have a plethora of fantastic features as well as practical additions, so choosing between the two is no easy decision.
Continue reading to find our detailed comparison of the two vehicles as we discuss engine, technical specifications, and more. For an in-depth look at each of these vans read our reviews for the Volkswagen Crafter here and Volkswagon e-Crafter here.
Engines and Spec
Let’s start with the original diesel model. The Volkswagen Crafter has a 2.0 litre TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) diesel engine which can produce from 102hp to 177hp, depending on the choice of turbo and drivetrain. This produces more than adequate power while also being in line with Euro 6 emissions regulations. This Volkswagen runs at 30-38 mpg so while not the best performer for fuel efficiency, its fuel usage is respectable nonetheless.
In terms of ride quality, the Crafter is comfortable and sturdy, whether loaded or unloaded. This makes it a great vehicle for long-distance driving, as its electro-mechanical steering makes driving agile around tight corners and responsive in traffic. Including a number of safety features, such as Crosswind Assist, park assist, post-collision braking, and more, the Crafter is a great all rounder.
So how does the electric counterpart compare? Well, with an improved 35kW lithium-ion battery that can be charged to 80% full in approximately 45 minutes, Volkswagen claims that the e-Crafter can last for an estimated 107 miles. This makes it a great option for urban companies, couriers, and delivery drivers as the van will likely last a full day of short drop offs before needing to be recharged.
In the absence of a diesel engine, driving the e-Crafter is quiet, comfortable, and emission-free. For drivers operating in the low emission zones or dense city centres, this is absolutely essential. Beyond this, the lack of a gearbox makes the torque from the motor instantaneous, ensuring a smooth transition around corners, at roundabouts and at junctions. Additional safety features include Post-Collision Braking and Crosswind Assist, boosting peace of mind for the driver.
Interior
Volkswagen is well known for its straightforward and user-friendly interior design and both the Crafter and the e-Crafter benefit from this.
The Crafter boasts many storage areas including triple-decker door bins, dash-tops cubby-holes, and a shelf on top of the dashboard. Useful features such as multiple power points, heated seats, on-board Wi-Fi and a large touchscreen infotainment screen make sure that your journey is certainly not lacking in comfort.
Other innovative technological and safety features add to the overall driving experience. These include Driver Alert, which monitors for signs of driver tiredness, Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you, and Park Assist, which controls the steering for you when parking in tight parallel spaces.
Like the diesel version, the e-Crafter has several handy storage compartments such as three open-top compartments, two cup holders and a central storage compartment in the dashboard. Additionally this model has large door pockets and a fold-down tray in the back of the central seat that can double up as additional storage if needed.
The interior is luxurious and high quality with an automatic air-conditioning system, seat heating, a heated windscreen and comfortable, well designed seats. The dashboard is functional and clear with two analogue dials and an infotainment screen mounted in the centre of the cabin.
The Verdict/Snap shot
So which one should you go for? Well the answer will depend on your personal vehicle requirements. Both the Crafter and the e-Crafter are practical and comfortable choices with a range of innovative safety features to put your mind at ease.
The Volkswagen Crafter is a flexible, adaptive choice that can easily change to suit your commercial vehicle needs. However it does lack power and fuel efficiency; a con in terms of fuel costs but essential against the backdrop of the Euro 6 emissions regulations. What this model lacks in power and efficiency, it makes up for in safety, comfort and interior innovation keeping it in the mix as a great choice for your commercial vehicle needs.
If you’re sticking to urban environments, the Volkswagen e-Crafter could be the right choice for you as the silent running, instant torque and helpful technological features make this a stress-free van to drive. However, as the driving range is relatively short, this van might not be the best choice for commercial vehicles that regularly do longer journeys. It’s worth also considering the cost of purchasing an electric vehicle which tends to be pricier than their diesel counterparts.
Here at Vanaways we’re here to help and have a range of options for you, including both electric and on-electric vehicles. Call us at 0117 428 7721 or email at enquiries@vanaways.co.uk.
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