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Over the past few years, electric vehicle technology has really exploded in both popularity and capability. After many of the world’s largest countries made a conscious effort to begin the transition to carbon-free fuel options, the electric car industry really took off. Nowadays we stand at the edge of a turning tide. The days of diesel vehicles seems to be slipping away and their replacement is the electric motor. Though despite this obvious increase in technology and popularity, diesel engines are still more popular than electric vehicles and electric vans aren’t yet suitable for everyone.
This popularity of electric motors and cars has meant that many of the world’s leading car manufacturers have started to build electric alternatives to the standard diesel and petrol models. Naturally, some of these alternatives have gone down better than others but the question still remains which is better for you, the electric model or the traditional diesel option?
One of these brands that has made the move to electric alternatives is of course Volkswagen. Their transporter is quite frankly one of the most iconic vans of all time. In fact, here at Vanaways, we’re sure some of you are reading this with the view that it is without question the most iconic van of both the 20th and 21st centuries. The Transporter changed the concept of what was possible from a van. These vehicles were now fashionable and symbolise what it meant to be free and youthfully minded.
Now the Transporter has entered a new age. The classic Volkswagen van can now be purchased with its standard diesel engine or a brand-new state-of-the-art electric motor. The question is, which is better?
Engines and Spec
The engine in the diesel Transporter is unquestionably one of the most iconic and well-respected engines of the 21st century. Volkswagen’s 2.0-litre TDI turbodiesel is one of the most reliable engines on the market at the moment and features in many modern Volkswagen vehicles. What’s more, this engine is no slouch when it comes to power either. The least powerful single turbo option produces a small but commendable 90hp. However, if you opt for the top-of-the-range twin turbo option, you’ll find yourself sitting at the wheel with 240 hp at your fingertips and a staggering 450 Nm of torque. Certainly, this is enough to get you from A to B with a full load of cargo in the back.
Perhaps expectedly the electric variant doesn’t quite produce these numbers. However, depending on what you plan to use the van for this electric motor may well be the perfect thing for you. The 83Kw motor produces 110hp, so it’s certainly nippy. It must be said here that many transporters are used as delivery vehicles or quick run-arounds for small businesses. If that sounds like you then the electric model is unquestionably the right choice as you’ll save vast amounts of money on petrol.
Interior
The interior of both of these vans really is stunning. The Transporter for some time has been known for its quality and stylish feel and Volkswagen really hasn’t lost that with its new generation of vans. Both of the vans cabs are brilliant places to sit and will certainly keep you comfortable on those long journeys.
In fact, the two vans are almost identical with their interior specifications. They both feature the new dashboard facelift which sees the Transporter move into the 21st century. There is a multipurpose screen in the centre console and much more technology besides. The cab is also spoilt for choice when it comes to storage so you’ll certainly have a place to store your valuables when you leave the van for a while. So in short the interior won’t really sway you either way. They are essentially completely identical on the inside so you’ll have to find some other ways to split the two.
The Verdict/Snap shot
Of course, there is at least one area in which the e-Transporter reigns supreme. This area is naturally running costs. Charging the batteries using a public fast charger is completely free throughout the country and you can often charge your vehicle from below 10% to over 50% in a matter of minutes. What’s more, even charging the van at home will use very little of your mains electrical supply. When it comes to road tax, congestion charges, and ultra-low emission zones you also won’t have to pay a penny for these either!
In regards to the payload, the diesel option just beats the e-Transporter. The highest payload variant of the standard Transporter can handle up to 1,300 kg of weight in the back. Whereas the e-Transporter manages 996 kg. It must be said though that just under 1000 kg in payload capacity is extremely commendable for an electric vehicle considering the weight of batteries in the chassis.
If either the standard Volkswagen Transporter or the e-Transporter sounds like the van for you here at Vanaways we can help. Make sure to contact our friendly staff today to find out more!
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