Company Car & Van February 2022

COMPANY

CAR AND VAN The motoring magazine for SME fleets

BMW i4

Is this our new favourite electric car?

COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

FIAT PROFESSIONAL e-DUCATO

Our winning line-up revealed

Class leading in more ways than one

VOLKSWAGEN ID.4

MAXUS eDELIVER eDELIVER 9

The more grown-up ID is a winner

Chinese electric van shows the way

February 2022 • Issue 71

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Contents

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31 26

Despite the challenges, our award winners triumphed Our February print and digital issue begins with the 2022 Company Car & Van Awards.

In what has been another difficult year for everyone, it’s true to say that the world’s car and van manufacturers have really risen to the challenge and launched some outstanding new cars and vans. You can read all about our winners from page 6.

Elsewhere, we were lucky enough to be invited to an ‘Electric Showcase’ driving day with BMW, where we got behind the wheel of the BMW i4. If this is where electric cars are going, then company car drivers will not be disappointed.

Another electric car that offers SMEs 1% BIK is the Volkswagen ID.4, which we also review this month. Elsewhere, we have features on the Mazda CX-5, which has just been upgraded, and the plug-in hybrid Lexus NX450h + .

engine and battery for a 300-mile range.

There’s also a look at the Toyota Proace City and Volkswagen’s exciting new Multivan, which has just opened for orders.

News

4-5

COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022 6-18 Meet all our award winners, including our Car of the Year, the Hyundai IONIQ 5

Finally, we have features on Lexus Bristol, which has recently opened a redesigned showroom and appointed a new Corporate Sales Manager, and we find out why Western Commercials in Scotland has just taken on the Maxus franchise.

Rolec

Andrew Walker, Editor and Publisher

19

CAR REVIEWS KIA EV6

20

Mazda CX-5

23

Lexus NX 450h+

26

BMW i4

28

Volkswagen ID.4

31

COMMERCIALS

2021 saw a record year for van sales in the UK and in this issue we take a look at three electric options. First up is the Fiat Professional e-Ducato, the large electric van which offers the most variants. This is followed by the Maxus eDeliver 9, another large panel van, and finally we take a look at the LEVC VN5, which combines a combustion

Maxus eDeliver 9 including Western Maxus

34

LEVC VN5

37

Volkswagen Commercial News

40

Fiat Professional e-Ducato

42

Toyota Proace City Electric

44

34

42 44

Company Car & Van is wholly owned and published by: Walker Advertising & Marketing Ltd 12 Oakwood Lane, Bowdon, Cheshire WA14 3DL t: 07734 264735 e: andrewmaxwalker@icloud.com w: www.companycarandvan.co.uk Follow us at twitter.com/andrewmaxwalker and www.linkedin.com/in/companycarandvan Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this magazine, the publisher can accept no responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising content. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The carriage of adverts in this publication should not necessarily be viewed as an endorsement of the products or services advertised. All articles within this publication are copyright of Walker Advertising & Marketing Ltd. Editorial consent must be obtained before any are reproduced, either in printed form or electronically. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 03

NEWS

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Volvo on the (re)charge Volvo Cars has opened the order books on the C40 Recharge, its latest fully electric model. It’ is the latest manifestation of Volvo Cars’ commitment to a zero-emission future, with several additional electric models in the coming years and a goal of half of all global sales to be fully electric cars by 2025. By 2030, it plans for every car it sells to be pure electric.

The C40 Recharge has all the benefits of an SUV but with a lower and sleeker design. A striking rear-end design complements the lower roof line, while the new front design introduces a new face for electric Volvos and includes headlights with state-of-the-art pixel technology.

It’s powered by twin electric motors, one on the front and one on the rear axle, connected to a 78kWh battery that can be fast charged to 80 per cent capacity in about 40 minutes. It offers an anticipated range of around 261 miles (420 km).

Electric switch easier with eVito The fully electric Mercedes-Benz eVito is now available for order, with first deliveries starting in March.

The new panel van offers significant advances in efficiency, reliability and connectivity. It also offers an impressive 162-mile range, making electric mobility a feasible proposition for many businesses that

have yet to switch from diesel.

What’s more, its 66 kWh lithium-ion battery can be restored to 80% of full usable capacity in just 35 minutes, using a publicly available rapid charging point. As a result, a short stop to recharge can extend the vehicle’s range by approximately 105 miles (WLTP combined).

AC fast charging to 100% capacity takes six-and-a-half hours using an 11kW Wallbox Type 2 charger, and approximately 20 hours using a regular domestic power outlet.

The 3.2-tonne vehicle offers a payload allowance of up to 807 kg and a maximum load volume of 6.6m3 – the battery is safely housed beneath the floor, so does not impinge on the available space.

e-Berlingo looks to build on top sales in compact van sector Citroën has launched an all-electric version of the ë-Berlingo Van. Already the UK’s best-selling compact van, the electric option should see its appeal grow still further.

It is available in panel van form, with two body lengths, and as a crew van, and in two body lengths – ‘M’, at 4.4m long, and XL at 4.75m long. Load volumes range from 3.3m3 to 4.4m3. ‘M’ variants can carry loads of up to 3.09m in length while the longer ‘XL’ model offers a 3.44m maximum load length.

Power comes from a 50kWh battery

04 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

connected to a 100kW (136hp) electric motor with up to 260Nm of torque. From a single charge, ë-Berlingo Van has a range of up to 171 miles under WLTP testing. Ideal for both fleet and business users, ë-Berlingo Van also supports up to 100kW rapid charging – with a 0-80% charge taking just 30 minutes.

New ë-Berlingo Crew Van also has a range of up to 171 miles (WLTP), and can comfortably carry cargo and up to five people when needed.

Streamlined Niro makes the case for Kia

Kia has taken the wraps off its all-new Niro.

Based on the third generation platform, the new Niro benefits from a larger body that realises class-leading interior space and storage capacity. Premium and eco-friendly materials combine to create a minimalist avant-garde feel; a moving mobility space in which occupants can relax and enjoy each stage of every journey. Modernistic digital displays and interior controls have been optimally placed to further enhance the user-friendly operating experience.

There’s a trio of state-of-the-art electrified powertrains, comprising hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) options.

A highly efficient Smartstream 1.6-litre GDI engine featuring improved cooling, friction and combustion technologies helps power the HEV model.

The powerplant ensures highly competitive fuel efficiency, with the all-new Niro HEV capable of achieving 20.8km/L (based on Korean standard).

It packs in a bold and dynamic design, with the exterior embodying a sophisticated and adventurous sense of purpose. Stylish and bold crossover looks combine with a hightech two-tone body, while front is dominated

by Kia’s signature Tiger Face, which extends from the hood to the rugged fender below.

Ultra streamling have dropped the drag coefficient to 0.29 – boosting economy.

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

It’s been another great year of stunning new cars and vans Perhaps we thought that 2021 could only be better than 2020? In the end Covid subsided, but the global supply of semi-conductors faltered, meaning that dealerships struggled to get new vehicles to sell and in the short term, this looks set to continue through 2022. It means that, from an SME fleet perspective, leasing that new car, van or pick-up meant waiting longer for your vehicle to arrive.

But despite the challenges, the new vehicles coming on stream were superb, with a host of innovative, exciting

models in both car and van form to choose from. Electrics were at the very centre of this new wave as manufacturers embraced the new powertrains with enthusiasm, bringing forward the next generation of cars and vans.

You’ll see over the following pages that our annual Company Car & Van Awards reflect this, with the Hyundai IONIQ 5 our Car of the Year.

Read on to find out who’s won.

Car of the Year: Hyundai IONIQ 5

Hyundai UK’s Robin Hayles with the IONIQ 5’s CC&V Car of the Year Award

CC&V verdict...

IONIQ 5 ... In a year where more electric cars appeared then ever before, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 stood out above the rest and that’s why it’s our Car of the Year 2022. The highest praise we can give it, is that it’s the first electric car we’ve driven that has tempted us to make it our own company vehicle. Not only does it look fantastic, both inside and out, but it’s spacious, very well equipped and the on-board tech is some of the best out there.

Factor in a real world range of 250 miles, 1% BIK and company car drivers should be taking a long hard look.

SUV Plug-In Car of the Year: Hyundai TUCSON CC&V verdict...

Hyundai TUCSON... There was a raft of plug-in mid-range SUVs to choose from this year but we felt that the TUCSON PHEV pips all the others to the post and is a deserved winner of our SUV Plug-In Car of the Year for 2022.

Visually it stands out from the crowd, it’s comfortable, spacious, quiet and refined. Furthermore, all Hyundais come with a five-year warranty and you’ll not want for any safety features, either. For company car drivers, the low BIK is a bonus and makes this the one to choose.

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SUV Car of the Year: Cupra Formentor CC&V verdict...

The Cupra Formentor... is an excellent addition to the burgeoning SUV sector and wins our SUV Car of the Year Award 2022. It’s different, too.

Both inside and out, Cupra has created a car that stands out in a crowd, which has to be a good thing. Works well as a family car while offering the driver a chance to indulge in bit of Cupra fun.

There’s a plug-in version, too.

What’s not to like?

Craig Cavanagh, Cupra and SEAT National Fleet Sales Manager, with the CC&V award

Small Car of the Year: Vauxhall Corsa CC&V verdict...

Vauxhall Corsa... is currently Britain’s best selling car and who are we to argue, as it’s now also our Small Car of the Year 2022.

The Corsa offers a great range of petrol and diesel engines and 70mpg is possible.

Importantly, Apple Car Play and Android Auto are offered as standard across the range and it’s available in a choice of funky colours, so it’s right on-trend.

Undoubtedly the Corsa is one of the best small cars you can buy.

Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall UK with the CC&V award

Small Electric Car of the Year: Peugeot e-208 CC&V verdict...

For the third year in a row, the Peugeot e-208 is our Small EV Car of the Year. Why? It’s still the best-looking small electric car out there, offers a 200-mile driving range, features Peugeot’s gorgeous i-Cockpit and is competitively priced.

And we haven’t even mentioned the 1% BIK you’ll pay if you pick one. Marvellous!

Peugeot UK Marketing Director Steve Wass with the CC&V award for Small Electric Car of the Year www.companycarandvan.co.uk

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

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Premium Electric Car of the Year: BMW iX3 CC&V verdict...

BMW iX3... An electric SUV that drives as well as a conventional BMW SUV – that would be the BMW iX3, our Premium Electric Car of the Year 2022. It’s brilliantly built, comes with a 250+ mile range and offers just 1% BIK. Where other premium EVs’ ride quality suffers from the extra battery weight, the iX3 makes an excellent fist of making you forget the battery is even there.

The power on offer and the torque only add to the fun factor. Our favourite electric SUV.

Rob East, General Manager, Corporate Sales, BMW (UK), with the CC&V award for the iX3... and below, for the 530e

Large Plug-In Car of the Year: BMW 530e CC&V verdict...

Plug-Ins don’t get much better then the BMW 530e, our Large Plug-In Car of the Year 2022.

BMW has managed to produce a great driving, tax-breaking executive saloon that offers business users significant BIK savings, coupled to an electric range of 41 miles.

Factor in BMW’s excellent cabin, on-trend tech, plenty of creature comforts and space for five and it has to be the large executive PHEV of choice for fleet users.

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

Medium Plug-In Car of the Year: Skoda Octavia iV CC&V verdict...

Skoda Octavia iV... is our 2022 Medium Plug-In Car of the Year. Despite a raft of new PHEVs being launched during the year, the Octavia iV still offers a package of quality and value for money that’s hard to beat.

With an electric range of 43 miles it’s at the top end of plug-in electric range, too. And, with a choice of saloon or estate, no other plug-in comes close to being this versatile.

Left and below, Skoda UK’s Head of Press and PR, Pietro Panarisi, with the company’s three CC&V awards

Large Car of the Year: Skoda Superb CC&V verdict...

Skoda Superb... Comfortably ahead of the pack and retaining the award from last year, the Skoda Superb wins our Large Car of the Year 2022. Choose from saloon or estate, with a plug-in iV offered for serious personal tax savings. Excellent motorway cruiser with acres of space inside and all topped off by a quality cabin furnished with the latest tech and safety. The Superb has it all.

SUV Electric Car of the Year: Skoda Enyaq

Skoda Enyaq... wins our inaugural title of SUV Electric Car of the Year 2022. Why? First and foremost, it’s a proper family five-seater, offering loads of practical space. It also comes with on-trend tech and the latest safety features. Furthermore, for company car drivers the BIK benefits it offers are almost impossible to ignore. And as a bonus, there’s now 120kW and up to 125kW DC fast charging on the ENYAQ iV 60, 80 and 80 SportLine models, so you can plug-in and go in less than 40 minutes.

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Jo Watkins, Digital Press Officer, Mercedes-Benz

Small Plug-In Car of the Year: Mercedes-Benz A250e CC&V verdict...

Mercedes-Benz A250e... You’d be hard pressed to find a better premium plug-in hybrid tax avoider than the A250e, deservedly our Small Plug-In Car of the Year 2022. It’s finished in the quality you’d expect from a Benz and features Mercedes’ fabulous digital cockpit.

Add in that it takes only two hours to charge the battery to full at home, has a pure electric range of 45 miles and its excellent road manners, and it really is a no brainer!

Large Electric Car of the Year: Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback CC&V verdict...

Q4 e-tron... Audi’s electric cars are getting better and better, with the Q4 e-tron Sportback the best yet and a deserved winner of our Large Electric Car of the Year for 2022. What you get is an interior hewn from stone, a great infotainment system, plenty of safety features and with Sportback looks, something just that little bit different. Furthermore, with a real world range of 275 miles and fast charging on board, it’s an electric car that will work for those driving longer distances.

Left, Andrew Doyle, Director, Audi UK Pictured, Lisa Hartley, Product Manager, VW Golf

Medium Electric Car of the Year: KIA EV6 CC&V verdict...

KIA EV6 ... there’s a number of very good reasons why the EV6 is our Medium Electric Car of the Year. It’s realistically priced, looks fantastic, drives exceptionally well and feels like a car you could live with every day. Add in a 300-mile real world battery range, plus a top notch cabin and the EV6 offers a compelling argument to make that switch to a full-electric car.

Medium Car of the Year: Volkswagen Golf Paul Philpott President & CEO, Kia UK Ltd, with the award for the stunning EV6

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CC&V verdict...

Volkswagen Golf... Still the benchmark car in its class and still the one to beat, the VW Golf rightfully retains our Medium Car of the Year Award for 2022. The latest model features a class-leading interior, the latest on-trend tech and the best drive in class.

Others have tried and some have come close, but for us the Golf is still the stand-out five-door family hatchback and is practically perfect in every way.

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

Medium Electric Van of the Year: Toyota Proace Electric CC&V verdict...

The Proace Electric is our Medium Electric Van of the Year. Why? It’s great to drive, features a 200-mile range, comes with a competitive payload, has a user-friendly cabin and offers the connectivity that van operators demand from their commercial vehicles.

One of the best electric vans you can buy.

Gareth Matthews, Head of LCV Toyota UK, stands in front of a Proace Electric with the company’s awards for Medium Electric Van and Medium Van

Medium Van of the Year: Toyota Proace CC&V verdict...

The Toyota Proace retains our title of Medium Van of the Year 2022.

It’s slightly different from its Stellantis siblings, offering more standard equipment and a longer warranty, with a slightly higher price point.

It also features a cleverly designed cabin, a raft of safety features and the latest tech, plus the peace of mind that comes with owning a Toyota.

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

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Small Electric Van of the Year: MAXUS eDeliver 3 CC&V verdict...

Maxus eDeliver 3... With a choice of two battery sizes and an electric range of 213 miles, the Maxus eDeliver 3 stays ahead of the pack and deservedly retains our Small Electric Van of the Year Award 2022.

Parent company SAIC knows a thing or two about EVs and that’s clearly on show in the eDeliver 3. It comes competitively priced, with a decent payload and in a number of conversions. Standard equipment includes SatNav, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and cruise control.

Bill Laidlaw, UK Sales Manager, Harris MAXUS with the MAXUS eDeliver 3

Pick-Up of the Year: Isuzu D-Max

CC&V verdict...

Isuzu D-Max... While other manufacturers have shied away from the pick-up sector, Isuzu is to be congratulated on not only launching a new model, but a massively improved one to boot. This D-Max looks and drives better than before and now features class-leading safety, on-trend tech, a far better passenger experience and does most of what a pick-up is supposed to do.

Furthermore, the amount of choice across a range of single, extended and double cab models means that there’s a D-Max priced for everyone.

Left, Alan Able, Brand Director, ISUZU UK, with the CC&V award

Small Van of the Year: Volkswagen Caddy Cargo Volkswagen Caddy Cargo... We loved driving the Caddy Cargo and it’s comfortably the best small van we’ve driven, so an easy winner of our Small Van of the Year 2022.

It comes with brilliant build quality, on-trend tech and plenty of safety features.

If you want a van that leaves you feeling like you’ve been driving a car, then the Caddy 5 is your best bet.

Right, Kate Thompson, Head of Marketing, Press and Public Relations, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, with the Caddy Cargo’s award 14 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

Medium Electric Van of the Year: Vauxhall Vivaro-e CC&V verdict...

Vauxhall Vivaro-e... In the electric van sector, the Vivaro-e is the leader of the pack and is our Medium Electric Van of the Year 2022.

Not only does it offer the best range, coupled to the best carrying capacity, with the same internal dimensions as the petrol/ diesel Vivaro, it’s also good to drive, comes well equipped and being electric, is cheap to run and service.

In 2022, if you’re looking for a medium electric van, then the Vivaro-e should be in pole position.

Vauxhall Managing Director Paul Willcox with the Vivaro-e’s award

Medium Electric Van of the Year: Peugeot e-Expert CC&V verdict...

Peugeot e-Expert... is deservedly our Medium Electric Van of the Year. Offering one of the best all around packages of any electric van, it features great battery range, a competitive payload, user friendly tech and plenty of on-board safety. It’s also good to drive and is definitely one of the best electric vans that you can buy.

Medium Electric Van of the Year: Citroen e-Dispatch CC&V verdict...

Citroen e-Dispatch... With the same load volume as the Dispatch, the e-Dispatch shines as our Medium Electric Van of the Year 2022. Time spent in Citroen’s e-Dispatch proved to us that for many businesses, an electric van would work and the e-Dispatch, with its top-notch interior, excellent payload and car-like handling, would be at the top of that list.

Right, Robert Clark, Head of Citroën UK Product Marketing, accepts the e-Dispatch award 16 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

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Medium Van of the Year: Citroen Dispatch Vauxhall Managing Director Paul Willcox with the Vivaro’s award

CC&V verdict...

Citroen Dispatch... Recent engine upgrades, plus a lower price than 12 months ago, mean that the Dispatch makes an even better fist of being our Medium Van of the Year 2022. Add in its excellent payload and quality cabin and it is really hard to fault. We also think that it’s the best-looking version of this Stellantis van.

Medium Van of the Year: Vauxhall Vivaro CC&V verdict...

Vauxhall Vivaro... deservedly retains our title of Medium Van of the Year 2022. Everything about the latest Vivaro is better than before. It gets a larger payload and towing capacity, plus improved fuel economy from newer, cleaner diesel engines, putting it right at the top versus its rivals.

The cabin features a number of clever design touches and all versions get the latest tech. Medium van customers need look no further.

Medium Van of the Year: Peugeot Expert CC&V verdict...

Peugeot Expert... Retaining its title as our Medium Van of the Year, the Peugeot Expert offers classleading payload, in a wide range of variants. Add in the car-like cabin, good fuel economy, low emissions and excellent drivability and the Expert offers an all-around package that’s hard to beat.

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COMPANY CAR & VAN AWARDS 2022

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Large Electric Van of the Year: Fiat Professional e-Ducato CC&V verdict...

Fiat Professional e-Ducato... Retaining its title from 2021, the e-Ducato is our Large Electric Van of the Year for 2022. What makes the e-Ducato stand out is its choice of two battery options, 47kWh or 79kWh, offering a range of 113-230 miles. Add in a best-in-class payload of 1,885kg, 22 versions and volumes of between 10m3 17m3 and it’s very hard to fault.

FIAT Professional’s Head of Commercial Vehicles, Richard Chamberlain, with the company’s twin awards for the Ducato range

Large Van of the Year: Fiat Professional Ducato CC&V verdict...

Fiat Professional Ducato... For the third year in a row, the Ducato is our Large Van of the Year 2022 – but don’t think that Fiat has rested on its laurels. The latest Ductao has been updated and improved across the board, and now comes fitted with the latest safety features and tech.

Moreover, it’s also available in a myriad of conversions and offers customers a nine-speed auto gear box with torque convertor, to make those urban delivery runs that much more enjoyable.

“

Despite the challenges, the new vehicles coming on stream were superb, with a host of innovative, exciting models in both car and van form to choose from ... electrics were at the the very centre of this new wave as manufacturers embraced the new powertrains with enthusiasm, bringing forward the next generation of cars and vans.

“

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ON TEST: KIA EV6

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One issue that has bedevilled electric cars is not letting them get too frisky when there is limited charge available.

Andrew Walker thinks KIA has cracked the problem with the EV6, a stunner to drive that doesn’t leave you short on range

KIA’s has drivers in seventh heaven with stunning EV6 models fitted with 19” wheels and up to 300 miles for GT-Line S models with larger 20” wheels.

glossy insert, a roof spoiler and rear lights that wrap around the edges of the boot hatch.

Models and powertrains There’s a choice of two powertrains: 226bhp RWD single motor or 321bhp AWD dual motor, both coming with 77.4kWh battery packs as standard. From launch you can choose from three models; ‘Air’, ‘GT-Line’ or ‘GT-Line S’, with a high-performance ‘GT’ flagship to join the range later. Entry level ‘Air’ is only offered in rear-wheel drive, with ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models available with both rear or all-wheel drive.

Charging The EV6 comes with a multi high-speed charging system which is compatible with both 800V ultra-fast charging and more mainstream 400V fast charging, without the need for a special adapter or additional on-board charger.

All models are equipped with a Type 2-to-Type 2 charger, as well as a Type 2-to-Domestic three-pin plug charger. For home use, a 7kW home charger will recharge the EV6 from 10 – 100% in 7 hours 20 minutes. Out on the road, a 50kW rapid charger will take the car from 10-80% in just 1 hour 13 minutes. Plug in to a 350kW ultra-fast charger and it only take 18 minutes to recharge from 10-to-80%. Our advice as always is to invest in a home charger and plug in whenever you can.

We recommend Rolec; see http://www. rolecserv.com/home-charging .

Interior The uncluttered dashboard is dominated by the infotainment and instrument cluster screens, which stretch across two-thirds of the dash.

Below them sits the new multi-mode display, something which will feature in future Kia cabin designs. It replaces physical buttons with a dedicated ‘haptic’ touchscreen, providing shortcuts to climate control, infotainment and SatNav. You don’t need to delve into too many sub-menus to choose what you want, a problem associated with many existing car infotainment systems. It’s easy to work, too.

Thinking outside the box, Kia has cleverly incorporated premium relaxation seats on GT-Line and GT-Line S models. At the touch of a button, the seats can lift and recline, enabling the driver and front passenger to relax while the EV6 is parked or charging, something electric car drivers spend plenty of time doing.

Battery range and performance The RWD EV6 can travel up to 328 miles on a single charge. With a power output of 226bhp and maximum torque of 350Nm, it can sprint to 62mph in 7.3 seconds and will go on to reach a maximum speed of 114mph. The AWD EV6 with dual motor, offers 321bhp and 605Nm of torque.

It accelerates to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 114mph. Battery range is 314 miles on the combined WLTP cycle for GT-Line

Exterior Kia has resisted the temptation to over ‘SUV’ the EV6, so what you get is a five-door Sportback with plenty of internal space. The front comes with a new ‘Digital Tiger Face’ which includes a sequential dynamic light pattern. Below this sits a low air intake for optimum aerodynamics. A character line runs along the bottom of the doors and at the back, there’s a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black

2021 saw the number of electric cars coming to market gather speed. The latest to arrive is the KIA EV6, the brand’s first dedicated electric vehicle. It’s underpinned by the new E-GMP platform and is the first of 11 all-new BEVs to be launched by Kia by 2026, which just goes to show how quickly electric cars are taking over.

After spending two days driving it, we can say with certainty that it’s one of the best electric cars yet.

20 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

Practicality Up front you get a storage tray and on GT-Line and GT-Line S models, an integrated wireless charging pad. The glovebox comes with 10.5 litres of space and there’s front and rear drinks holders. Connect your device with two USB inputs, a normal and a C version and in the rear, the twin C USB inputs are located on the inside edges of the front seats.

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ON TEST: KIA EV6

Regenerative braking The EV6 features a new ‘i-PEDAL’ mode. It’s been designed to enable easy one-pedal driving in most driving conditions. It works really well, perhaps too well. Luckily, there are three other regenerative levels, of which Level 3, one below i-PEDAL is a great compromise. This allows you to recharge the batteries but not to the detriment of the driving experience. You can go backwards from here, through regen 2, then 1 and can also turn the regen off altogether, which really makes the EV6 a fun car to drive.

Driving We had the opportunity to drive the AWD GT Line S and a RWD GT Line at the UK press launch in Suffolk. Once sat comfortably behind the wheel we headed out from Stansted Airport towards deepest Suffolk on a route designed to showcase the EV6’s driving manners.

On the motorway you can utilise the ADAS functions, sit back and enjoy the ride. We seamlessly connected our iPhone to Apple CarPlay and were able to make and receive a number of hands-free calls, the quietness inside the EV6 being a real bonus.

There’s a slot-car feel to the all-wheel-drive 22 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

model on winding B roads, particularly round the corners. Yes, you can still feel the battery weight, but it doesn’t spoil the fun on the AWD version, which was particularly accomplished on corners.

The comforting ‘Scalextric’ hum of the engine only increases the enjoyment and I found myself smiling as the journey progressed.

The rear-wheel-drive version is not quite as much fun, making slightly harder work of the same driving route in the opposite direction.

Don’t get me wrong, compared to other electric

‘‘

When battery range isn’t your paramount concern, turning off the regen and driving in Sport mode opens up the performance and doesn’t disappoint...

‘‘

Continued from page 20 There’s also a plug socket in the centre rear, allowing you to plug-in a domestic appliance, useful for festivals or e-bike charging while on the go. Another design feature is the floating front centre binnacle, with additional storage space underneath.

The boot comes with 490 litres of storage.

Fold down the 60:40 second-row of seats and this increases to almost 1,300 litres. The EV6 also offers bonus storage. At the front, in the ‘frunk’, there’s an additional 52 litres of space in RWD models and 20 litres for AWD models.

There’s also space underneath the rear boot floor, perfect for that charging cable.

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cars, it’s still pretty damn good and sportier overall than the Hyundai IONIQ 5 which is built on the same platform.

As we drove along we switched between the three driving modes – Eco, Normal and Sport.

Each does what is says on the tin. The longer you spend in the EV6, the better you’ll get at selecting which driving mode and regeneration level works best for you, or the driving situation you’re in. We found that Eco or Normal mode at regen level 3 worked well and was the most satisfying for urban driving or slow traffic. On the motorway, level 1 or 2 of regen was better.

The one-pedal mode, which offers the highest level of regen and reduces your need for the brake, is quite heavy and your right foot will begin to ache after a few miles. Plainly, when

battery range isn’t your paramount concern, turning off the regen and driving in Sport mode opens up the performance and the EV6 definitely doesn’t disappoint. The car’s ability to iron out the shakes associated with large battery EVs also shines through.

Pros Like the IONIQ 5, the EV6 uses 800 volt technology, so the battery can charge much faster. Currently, only a couple of other electric cars are able to do the same. For the company car driver, it’s 1% BIK and 300-mile range make the EV6 a very attractive choice indeed.

Furthermore, it’s an exciting looking car, features on-trend tech, comes equipped with high levels of safety and there’s space inside for five.

Cons The i-PEDAL will aid battery range but makes your right foot work hard for it. While we love how the EV6 looks, some may prefer a less interesting looking car to own.

Conclusion We were blown away by the Hyundai IONIQ 5, both by how good it looks and how well it drives. Arguably, the EV6 is even more attractive and thanks to its sleeker profile, is actually more fun on the road, too. However, it’s not all about fun. The EV6 is also realistically priced and looks and feels like a car you could live with every day.

Add in a 300-mile real world battery range and it’s a car that offers a compelling argument to make that switch from your existing petrol or self-charging hybrid to a full-electric car.

CC&V VERDICT Simply, one of the best electric cars yet

CC&V RATING: NNNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

NEW CAR REVIEW: MAZDA CX-5

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Facelifted CX-5 comes with a bold new look

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that offers customers a unique look, offered exclusively with the 165ps Skyactiv-G petrol engine and front wheel drive, it delivers a sportier interpretation of the CX-5’s new look with gloss black detailing on the wheel arches, side moldings, door mirrors and signature wing grille surround. Subtle red accents within the grille and 19-inch black alloy wheels finish the sporty look, while inside the black leather seats feature red stitching, which is also found around the cabin in areas like the door trim, centre console and steering wheel.

Sitting at the top of the 2022 Mazda CX-5 range, the GT Sport is the premium flagship model that combines a unified one-colour

exterior with a high-class interior that features the smooth tactility of brown Nappa leather and the luxurious textures of genuine woodgrain. It comes with a wide choice of engine, drivetrain and transmission with both the 2.0-litre 165ps Skyactiv-G and 194ps 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G petrol available. As before, the 165ps engine is matched to front wheel drive, while the larger 194ps petrol comes exclusively with all-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox.

The CX-5 sits in Mazda’s SUV line-up alongside the Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid system equipped Mazda CX-30, which now features the updated e-Skyactiv X engine and the MX-30 – Mazda’s first battery-electric vehicle.

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The Sport Black trim offers customers a unique look ... offered exclusively with the 165ps Skyactiv-G petrol engine and front wheel drive, it delivers a sportier interpretation of the CX-5

‘‘

Mazda has launched a significantly updated version of its stylish, spacious and dynamic SUV, the CX-5. It features a bold new look with an evolution of Mazda’s award-winning Kodo Design. Revised front and rear bumper designs combine with new headlight and taillight clusters to give the 2022 CX-5 a distinctly more modern and sharper look.

At the front a more three-dimensional and powerful grille design is combined with a new signature wing trim that no longer heads into the lamp cluster, while at the rear the new bumper shape and stronger taillight design sharpens the rear styling.

The 20 model 2022 Mazda CX-5 line-up features five trim levels: SE-L, Newground, Sport, Sport Black and GT Sport. For the first time, individual model grades feature subtle styling differentiation to give customers the option of choosing a CX-5 with a unique character and focus. The three stand out trim grades – Newground, Sport Black and GT Sport – each have a distinct personality to ensure the CX-5 range offers more choice than ever before.

As before, the entry point to the CX-5 range is the SE-L model, which is offered with either the 165ps Skyactiv-G petrol or 150ps Skyactiv-D engine. Making its debut with 2022 Mazda CX-5, and offered exclusively with the 165ps Skyactiv-G engine, the stand-out Newground model features a slightly more rugged look with front and rear silver underguard trims matched to silver lower body side skirts, black door mirrors and 19-inch black diamond cut alloy wheels. Subtle lime green accents in the grille are replicated inside with lime green air vent louvre trims, while the Newground’s black half leatherette seats have matching green piping. Perfect for an active lifestyle, the boot even features a reversible waterproof boot floor, while the Newground can be specified in the new for 2022 model year Zircon Sand Metallic paint colour.

Predicted to be the biggest seller in the UK, the Sport model is offered with a choice of 165ps Skyactiv-G petrol or 150ps and 184ps Skyactiv-D diesel. The higher output diesel is offered with a choice of front or all-wheel drive.

Matched exclusively to an automatic gearbox this 184ps Skyactiv-D AWD Sport is the entry point of Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system in the 2022 Mazda CX-5 range.

The new Sport Black trim is another model

Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 23

NEW CAR REVIEW: LEXUS NX 450h:

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There’s a lot of love out there for all-new Lexus NX 450h+ Lexus’s first plug-in hybrid electric joins exciting new range of luxury SUVs

It’s never a bad move to keep the motoring media on your side – and it looks like Lexus has done just that as the reviews come in on its exciting and all-new NX 450h+.

The first drives of the mid-size luxury SUV yielded a raft of high-scoring reviews and praise for the vehicle’s key qualities, in particular the performance of the plug-in system, the new multimedia platform and the core Lexus qualities of comfort and refinement.

What Car? gave it a four-star review, commending it as “the best car Lexus has launched for years,” highlighting the “impressive pure electric range,” “strong performance,” and “promise of stellar reliability”.

It also points out the particular appeal for company car drivers who pay benefit-in-kind tax, quoting the seven per cent rating achieved thanks to the model’s low CO2 emissions and EV driving capability.

Awarding a four-out-of-five-star rating in Auto Express, James Brodie praises the Lexus as “efficient, refined, comfortable, practical (and) relaxing to drive,” noting the size of the high-voltage battery and role it plays in the NX’s “impressive” performance figures.

He also highlights interior quality “as plush as you’d expect of the badge” and the “decluttered” driver’s cockpit, commenting: “It’s improvements like these that exemplify the new Lexus attitude.” In his verdict he declares the NX to be “efficient, refined, comfortable, practical, relaxing to drive”.

Car magazine was equally pleased, pointing out Lexus has had “more experience making 26 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

hybrids than just about anybody and it’s pretty much nailed the experience when it comes to daily driving.” The NX 450h+ will be “utterly painless to own,” referencing the up to 10 years warranty cover.

Perhaps crucially, Parkers justified a high score for its “peerless” material inside; the Lexus “is a very nice place to sit. Running on electric can often display refinement issues – with no engine to drown out wind and road noise it becomes more prominent. That’s no issue with the NX, which remains impressively silent whether the engine’s off or on.”

Glowing stuff. What they all agree upon is that the all-new NX range opens the next chapter for the Lexus brand, – and the 450h+ is a crucial part of this.

Overall customers can expect a stunning new design, powertrains, connectivity, safety and convenience technologies to a car that has comprehensively improved its dynamic performance on the outgoing model.

The NX also debuts a new multimedia platform that takes connectivity, information and convenience to a higher level, and benefits from

expansion of the scope and functionality of the next generation Lexus Safety System+ active safety and driver assistance systems to help guard against an even wider range of accident risks and reduce the burden on the driver.

From the outside the intention has been to preserve the avant-garde character that proved so attractive to customers with the firstgeneration model while using a more sophisticated, mature and dynamic design language. The result is what Lexus has dubbed “functional beauty,” a blending of design with performance to produce styling that delivers improved aerodynamics, noise reduction and fuel efficiency.

The bodywork presents contrasting curved surfaces and sharp angles, with dynamic proportions that express agility and a roadgripping look. At the front, the hallmark Lexus spindle grille plays a more integral role in the design. It has a more upright position, which helps improve airflow into the engine compartment, and dispenses with its chrome frame. Its lines flow back to accentuate the long bonnet and generate the overall form and www.companycarandvan.co.uk

LEXUS BRISTOL

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The new Lexus Bristol is now open: Welcome to the future It gives us great pleasure to announce that Lexus Bristol has now moved from Pioneer Park, Whitby Road to a brand new, state-of the-art Lexus Centre at Cribbs Causeway.

We are very much looking forward to welcoming you to our new home and as soon as you step through the doors at Lexus Bristol, you’ll be treated to a truly modern, outstanding and engaging atmosphere.

The contemporary showroom allows you to enjoy the very best of the extensive Lexus Hybrid range, with the latest technology making it simple to create and visualise how your next hybrid or plug-in Lexus vehicle could look. The enhanced service lounge provides a wonderful, relaxing environment to wait or work in while your vehicle is being looked after. Alternatively, we can arrange a unique ‘shop while you drop’ experience at The Mall shopping centre, collecting you when your vehicle is ready.

Our new location also includes our group training academy as well as a new home for Toyota Bristol.

• The dealership is also delighted to welcome Ashley Pocock to the Lexus Bristol team. He joined in January as Business Centre Manager and comes with over 10 years’

volume of the body as it flares broadly through the muscular rear wings. The elegant shape of the bonnet also supports good forward visibility from the driver’s seat.

The cockpit has been radically changed. To help keep the driver’s attention focused on the road ahead, the primary sources of information – the multi-information display, multimedia screen, gauges, meters and optional head-up display – are grouped so they can be read at-a-glance.

The head-up display can be used in three modes to show different levels of information: full mode includes the status of the Lexus Safety System+ safety and driver assistance features; standard mode summarises key information at the lower edge of the display; and minimum mode shows only the speed.

Touch tracer switches on the steering wheel www.companycarandvan.co.uk

experience in the fleet/ corporate/commercial side of the industry, starting with Mitsubishi and more recently with sister company Toyota. He also comes with the added bonus of fitting in with Lexus’ more creative side, having previously been a touring musician and composer.

He said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to grow the Lexus brand and enhance our presence in the South West.

Working for a company that also has a vested interest in the arts is a massive bonus and I’m looking forward to being able to combine both worlds”.

For any Fleet/Business enquiries, contact Ashley on 07341730639 or at ashley.pocock@marshall.co.uk

can be used to change or update the contents of the multi-information display without having to look away from the road ahead.

While the driver experiences the focused, engaging environment created by the new Tazuna cockpit design, passengers enjoy a greater sense of space with an elevated level of comfort, quality and attention to detail that are quintessentially Lexus, evoking the feeling of a luxurious lounge. It’s a cabin that is innovative, elegant and practical, delivering a “tangible space” – a concept whereby areas of open space are integrated in the design, rather than simply being a void between different solid elements. This helps create a luxurious lounge feeling for the front seat passenger.

But a real highlight is the tech behind first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), the NX 450h+. It draws on Lexus’s more than 15 years

Ashley Pocock

First Field Way, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5TN Tel: 0117 321 7622 www.lexus.co.uk/bristol

of hybrid technology expertise to feature a four-cylinder, 2.5-litre hybrid Atkinson cycle engine, a 134kW front electric motor, a 40kW rear electric motor, a hybrid transaxle and a lithium-ion battery with 18.1kWh capacity – one of the highest capacities in its class. The engine’s high output and fuel efficiency are supported by a long, 103.4mm stroke and high 14.0:1 compression ratio, together with Dual VVT-i electrically controlled intelligent variable valve-timing and D-4S direct/indirect fuel injection with multi-hole injectors.

The full plug-in system, including electric motors and battery, produces a maximum 305bhp/227 kW, enabling acceleration from 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds. At the same time, CO2 emissions between 20 and 26g/km and fuel economy between 256.8 and 313.9mpg are among the best in the new NX’s class.

Thanks to its powerful battery and superior efficiency, NX 450h+ also provides a substantially higher EV range. At 43 to 47 miles in the combined WLTP cycle, rising to 55 to 61 miles in the urban cycle, this is as much as twice the range offered by competitors in the NX’s segment. The new battery’s performance also enables all-electric driving at speeds up to 83mph. Using Lexus’s new compact and lightweight hybrid transaxle, the plug-in hybrid electric system delivers best-in-class fuel efficiency and power.

Highly efficient charging means the NX 450h+ battery recharging can be accomplished in around 2.5 hours using a 230V/32A connection and the 6.6kW on-board charger.

Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 27

ON TEST: BMW i4

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i4 leads BMW charge as it switches to electric motoring Andrew Walker takes a spin in BMW’s latest electric sensation, the i4, and reckons the Germans have got pretty much everything right As 2021 ended, BMW was firmly focused on the electric car sector, with the launch of two new models, the iX and the i4. We got to spend some time in both, beginning with the i4.

It’s an electric five-door coupe based on the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. While many brands are launching electric cars that look different, BMW is mixing its responses up. So, while the iX premium SUV look very different from all that has gone before it, the i4 looks just like a 4 Series Gran Coupe and, in our opinion, is all the better for it.

It’s pitched in a competitive sector alongside the Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2 and Jaguar I-Pace, but comes with so much of BMW’s traditional class and premium touches that it is an immediate contender for your cash.

Two versions are offered, starting with the i4 eDrive40, which we tested. The 40 has a single electric motor driving the rear wheels only. It’s still impressively rapid though, with 340hp and 430Nm of torque and will go from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds. Top speed is limited to 118mph.

Entry level Sport costs £51,905, while our test model M Sport retails at £53,905. The more powerful M50 version starts at £63,905.

(£3,800), a Technology Pack (£3,800) and an M Sport Pro Pack (another £2,500).The i4 is also available with a selection of up to 40 driver assistance functions.

Battery range Taking advantage of heat pump technology as well as excess heat from the electric motors, the i4 features improved heating efficiency, which BMW claims can improve driving range by up to 15 per cent in cold weather.

It all goes to help BMW claim a range of 556km/345 miles for the 40 M Sport, with an economy of 17.kWh per 100km/62miles.

Charging All versions of the i4 are equipped with a 205kW DC charger, meaning charging from empty to 80 per cent is just 35 minutes.

However, at home it’s more likely you’ll be using a 7kWh AC charger like our own Rolec, so expect 0-100% to take 13 hours.

Exterior You’d be hard pressed to tell the difference between an i4 and a 4 Series Gran Coupe. The front kidney grille is finished in black plastic, you get aerodynamic alloy wheels, some blue ‘electric’ highlights and there’s no exhaust pipes at the rear. That’s about it.

Specs and extras Standard equipment on entry level i4 Sport 40, includes air con, a reversing camera, 18” alloys, Shadow Line exterior trim and heated front seats. Our M-Sport added lightweight 18” alloys, M Sport exterior styling, an M Sport leather steering wheel, BMW Shadow Line lights, sun protection glass and M Sport seat belts. As ever with BMW, you can quickly put £10,000 on the price by adding equipment packs. For example, our test car was finished in a rather stunning Sanremo Green (at an extra cost of £695) and included a Visibility pack

Interior and infotainment Things are more interesting inside the i4.

While it’s very BMW familiar, the dashboard is dominated by the curved twin screens which are joined seamlessly in front of you. A 14.9” infotainment screen and a 12.3” screen that features the digital dials, which along with the head-up display, are customisable.

The graphics are sharp, response is quick and the fact you can scroll left and right on the screen itself, as well as via the rotary controller located between the front seats, also make it easy to use. It’s all powered by the latest BMW

28 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

Operating System 8, which can also be utilised through voice gestures.

The i4 benefits from BMW’s impressive build quality, with all surfaces beautifully finished; they are a million times better than the inside of a Model 3. The steering wheel and switchgear will be familiar to existing BMW customers and overall, it’s a comforting environment to be in.

Practicality There’s plenty of room inside for four adults.

Unlike most EVs the rear floor features a ‘transmission’ tunnel, limiting the centre seat’s leg room. This actually contains extra batteries to complement the larger battery located under the floor plan.

Cabin storage is okay, with two cup holders in front of the gear lever, twin USBs, under armrest storage and generous door pockets.

Rear passengers get their own climate controls and twin USBs. Boot space is 470 litres with the rear seats in place, which increases to 1,290 litre with them folded. The floor is flat, with two extra storage spaces on either side and cargo nets to prevent slippage. There’s space under the boot floor for storing charging cables.

What’s it like to drive?

When it comes to sporty saloons, BMW’s ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ moniker has left it with very little wriggle room. Happily, the i4 continues to show why BMW invariably gets this right, even with an electric car.

Continued on page 30 www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: BMW i4

Continued from page 28 The extra battery weight – the i4 weighs 2.2 tonnes – actually helps rather than hinders the handling, as it gives it a lower centre of gravity, allowing it to hug the road like glue and corner superbly.

Furthermore, the cabin is eerily quiet and is well insulated against the elements and road noise is kept to a minimum. The ride itself is supple, much better than most EVs, and being RWD, it offers a bit more grip from a standing start then the FWD Polestar 2.

On the motorway, you can take advantage of the cruise control, sit back and relax and watch the miles go by. Around town it’s quiet and unassuming, while on the open road you can enjoy its typical BMW handling and performance. A win-win.

Driving modes Driving modes offered are Eco Pro, Comfort and Sport, so you can tailor your drive to your needs.

Eco Pro will conserve your range and is particularly useful on the motorway.

Normal introduces a little more power and if you select Sport the car offers increased power and will give you access to the BMW IconicSounds Electric function, adding some computer generated engine noise to the driving experience. The range runs away from you a little, however.

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Regeneration There’s also an intuitive brake regeneration system on the i4. This has an Adaptive mode that uses data from the navigation system and onboard sensors to work out when to increase the regenerative effect. You can also utilise the B mode on the gear lever, which gives you one-pedal driving, meaning that if driven carefully, you’ll rarely have to push the brake pedal when slowing down.

Pros These may seem strange praise for a 50k car, but for what it is and what you get, the i4 is a bit of a bargain! The performance is sensational, the handling sublime and the overall quality of the i4 exceptional.

Pretty much all of the engine, tech and electric gizmos are shared with the iX, which would set you back £70,000.

Add in a decent electric range and 1% BIK and it’s an electric car you can own with a smile on your face.

Cons The i4 doesn’t charge as fast as a Tesla Model 3, nor does it benefit from the Tesla Supercharger Network, so you’ll have to rely on standard motorway charging; that’s currently a hindrance if you do a lot of motorway miles.

Conclusion The biggest praise we can give the i4 – and remember, we didn’t try the more powerful M50 model – is that it’s as close to driving a petrol 4 Series Gran Coupe as you can get. Just like the iX3, BMW has managed to build an electric car that will offer customers a proper BMW driving experience.

Existing 3 and 4 Series company car drivers who switch to electric won’t skip a beat and if you’re looking for something similar from Audi or Mercedes-Benz, you’ll have to wait.

Model Tested BMW G26 i4 eDrive40 M Sport

CC&V VERDICT It’s a stunner – no doubt about that – and even though it’s 50k+, it seems good value for money. BMW has clearly pulled out all the stops to make sure it fits the bill for its beloved fleet car market

CC&V RATING: NNNNN 30 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

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ON TEST: VOLKSWAGEN ID.4

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ID.4 raises stakes for compact SUV sector Here’s trouble for rivals – Volkswagen has got serious on electrics. The ID.3 set the standard, and now its big brother, the ID.4, raises the stakes even higher, says Andrew Walker

Hot on the heels of the ID.3, Volkswagen has launched its second new electric car, the ID.4.

It’s Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV and first global electric vehicle – and as we found, it’s darn good.

Like the ID.3 it is based on the brand’s new modular electric drive matrix (MEB) and its entry into the compact SUV market gives Volkswagen a head start in a sector that sees sales still increasing.

Model range and battery choice The ID.4 comes in five trims. First there’s Life, Family, Max and Pro Performance specification. These are fitted with a 77 kWh battery and 204 PS motor. Then there’s a Pure model, fitted with the smaller 52kWh battery, offering power outputs of either 148 PS or 170 PS. All of these are rear wheel drive.

There are also two all-wheel drive models, the GTX and GTX Max. These are the inaugural models of the new all-electric ‘GTX’ performance line and the first ID. models to feature dual-motor all-wheel drive. Both are fitted with the same 77 kWh battery as the Pro Performance models in the ID.4 line-up. To give an idea of battery range, the GTX and GTX Max can travel up to 301 and 291 miles respectively (WLTP, combined) on a single charge.

Exterior Unlike the ID.3 which looks very much like a Volkswagen, the ID.4 looks generically like a lot of traditional SUVs, so think Vauxhall Grandland X, Nissan Qashqai and KIA Sportage.

The front features narrow, sweeping front lights and a large windscreen. Mirroring the www.companycarandvan.co.uk

latest Audi EV trend, the rear light cluster spreads right across the back of the car. The VW badge is prominently located centre front and rear with the ID.4 logo located on the centre rear.

Interior The interior is almost identical to the one found on the ID.3. So factor in a centrally mounted 10” infotainment touchscreen, a 5.3” dash panel display, a flat bottomed steering wheel and a gear lever on the right end of the centre console that you twist to select from Drive, Reverse or Neutral.

The colour-way on our First Edition model was different, featuring a white steering wheel with white trim around the touchscreen and electric window switches. Light grey and gloss black adorn the remainder of the cabin. The seats are finished in grey, with a pink/orange/ brown like coloured trim. Build quality is pretty good, although there are some cheaper, harder plastics located lower down.

Practicality The interior offers at least as much room as you’ll find in a Volkswagen Tiguan. Front seat passengers are spoiled for space, with even an armrest each. In the rear, there’s room for three adults to sit comfortably side by side. Cabin storage is generous, so you get four large door pockets, two central cup holders, some clever central storage between the front seats, where the twin USB’s are located. The glove box though is tiny.

Rear passengers get plenty of head and legroom and two USBs and their own heating vents. And if there’s only two in the back, an

armrest folds down, inside of which there are cupholders.

Luggage capacity with the rear seats upright is a more than generous 543 litres, which increases to 1,575 litres with the rear seats folded. The boot is flat and rectangular, so it’s easy to slide stuff in and out of it. There’s a hidden storage space under the boot floor, where the two charging cables can be stored out of sight.

Equipment and safety Many of the advanced features found on the ID.3 are shared with the ID.4, namely ID.Light (the intelligent strip of light below the windscreen that communicates with the driver), the central airbag that prevents front seat occupants colliding in a side-impact or rollover and Car2X, a system that allows the car to wirelessly exchange information about local hazards with other vehicles and the traffic infrastructure.

Our test car, the First Edition, comes very well equipped. You get an electronic parking brake, a Driver Alert system with fatigue detection, ESC (Electronic Stability Control Programme) including traction control, 2-Zone ‘Air Care Climatronic’ air con, with keyless entry and starting system.

Infotainment and tech is not bad either, with driver profile selection and personalisation, phone connectivity and contacts. Also on offer is a heated, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel with rake adjustment, front and rear parking sensors, Adaptive Cruise Control, a Front Assist radar sensor controlled distance monitoring system and Lane Assist.

Continued on page 32 Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 31

ON TEST: VOLKSWAGEN ID.4

Continued from page 31 Tech and connectivity Volkswagen’s Discover Pro Navigation system with 10” colour touchscreen and touch-sensitive functionality, dominates the centre of the dash.

You get preloaded European navigation data, branded points of interest, a 2D or 3D map view, speed limit display and car information display at the touch of a button. It also allows for the simultaneous pairing of two compatible mobile devices and SMS functionality. There’s also a DAB digital radio receiver, with six speakers and Bluetooth telephone and audio connections.

App-Connect also features; this combines the functionality of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink, allowing mirroring of smartphone display on the infotainment touchscreen, connected wirelessly. ID.4 also gets ID.Light and We Connect, which provides continuous interaction between driver and vehicle. For example, this includes ‘eCall’, which allows emergency SOS calls and comes with an automated breakdown notification.

Battery range and performance Our test car was the ID.4 1st Edition Pro Performance, fitted with the 77 kWh battery with 204 PS of power. Maximum torque is 310Nm, top speed 99mph and 0-62mph takes just 8.5 seconds. Claimed WLTP range is 310 miles, with consumption at 3.45 miles per kWh. Charging Using a standard 7.2kW home charger, it will take 11 hours to fully charge the battery from zero. We recommend Rolec; http://www. rolecserv.com/home-charging . ID.4s come with a 3 32-amp / 7.2kW charging cable and a three-year mobility guarantee in case of car breakdown But ID.4 can also be fast charged, either via a 125 kW DC (direct current)or 11 kW AC (alternating current). Using the former means charging to 80 per cent capacity in just 25 minutes.

Driving On the road the ID.4 is not as much fun to drive as its smaller sibling, the ID.3, but with that 77kWh battery it’s 330kg heavier, so no big surprise. But the 201bhp electric motor offers 150kW or 204PS and 310Nm of torque, and propels the ID.4 quite quickly in a straight line. However, on country roads it’s a little more cumbersome than the ID.3. It’s best enjoyed dawdling in traffic or cruising along a motorway, with both tasks undertaken in supreme quiet and relaxing comfort.

To enhance battery range, you can select a regenerative brake mode. In Drive you simply twist and push the gear lever to select the B function. Unlike some EVs the strength of the regen on ID.4 is not that high. The caveat is that this also makes the ID.4 better to drive than some of its competitors.

As far as driving modes go, you can select 32 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

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from Eco, the best for saving battery range and limiting you to a top speed of 80mph; Comfort, Sport or Individual.

Real world driving An 85-mile motorway journey at typical speed saw us use up 100 miles of range. In town, the B regenerative braking kicks in and you’ll likely see at least a 1:1 ratio of miles travelled to range used. While range anxiety accompanies any electric vehicle purchase, the large 77kWh battery fitted to the ID.4 will offer you a comfortable 250-mile range without you having to work too hard to achieve this. Just watch out in winter or with several passengers and luggage on board; the range will likely fall by around 20 per cent.

Running costs We estimate that if in a calendar year you travelled 12,000 miles and charged your ID.4 regularly from your home wall box, rather than away from home, the cost to ‘fuel’ your ID.4 would be about £500-£600. This can be achieved by utilising a combination of home electricity tariffs, currently about 13p per kWh and plugging in at night, when there are cheaper 5p a kWh tariffs offered by the likes of Octopus Energy’s Go. In comparison, travelling the same distance in 12 months in a petrol or diesel SUV, would see you pay between £2,000 and £2,500 at the petrol pumps.

Zero emissions means you’ll pay only 1% BIK. Even the new plug-in Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid comes with a BIK from 11%.

Pros While the government’s drive to get us into an EV takes no account of whether you’re a fleet or retail customer, we believe that currently, for company car drivers, the pros of running an ID.4 are impossible to ignore.

Charging regularly at home and at night on a cheaper tariff will save on your fuel bill and

there’s the BIK tax savings too.

Volkswagen is also ahead of the game in offering an EV SUV fitted with the 77kWh battery, giving customers a real world 250-mile driving range. Currently only the smaller VW D.3, KIA e-Niro and Hyundai Kona EV are comparable on range, although by mid-2022, that will have changed as new EVs find their way to market.

Cons The ID.4 is heavy so it’s not as fun to drive as a petrol Tiguan. For a car that retails at £40,110, some of the plastic used on the fixtures and fittings was a little disappointing.

It’s not as attractive to look at as a Volkswagen Tiguan. There’s no OLEV grant for any model that costs over £35,000.

Conclusion While the ID.3 impressed us when we drove it, the ID.4, thanks to its larger size and in our test car’s case, its larger battery, is arguably even more impressive. It’s a proper family five-seater, offering loads of practical space. It also comes equipped with on-trend tech and is fitted with the latest safety features.

Furthermore, the BIK benefits are immense at the moment, so if you’re a company car driver who needs a large family car and can live with a 250-mile electric range, now would be a very good time to consider the ID.4

CC&V VERDICT Currently, a Jack Nicholson, ‘as good as it gets’. Ticks lots of boxes as far as company car driving costs are concerned

CC&V RATING: NNNNN

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ON TEST: MAXUS eDELIVER 9

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Build quality and range make this a van be taken seriously The eDeliver 9 is the latest to roll off SAIC’s assembly lines – and it’s further proof that the Chinese manufacturer is heading in the right direction, says Andrew Walker Alongside its eDeliver 3 electric van, Maxus has launched a new large electric van, the eDeliver 9. It replaces the old LDV EV80 and gives Maxus two electric vans in a sector that’s increasing in size month by month.

Chinese owners SAIC changed the name of its European van brand from LDV to Maxus in 2020 and the eDeliver 9 is its take on the large electric van.

Available in one spec, Luxury, the eDeliver 9 comes in three body lengths, three heights and three wheelbases, as well as a crew cab, chassis cab and minibus. A network of specialist converters can also create a bespoke van to cater for needs including mobility, refrigeration and specialist cargo.

respectively. DC rapid charging allows for a 5-80% top-up to be completed in just 45 minutes.

Model range and charging The eDeliver 9 is available in two sizes – medium or long-wheelbase – and with three battery options: 51.5kWh, 72kWh and 88.55kWh. The driving range is up to 219 miles. Using a standard 7kWh home wall box, the different versions will charge from 0-100% in seven hours, 10 hours or 12 hours

Practicality All variants have a cargo compartment that measures 2,062mm wide by 2,525mm high.

The two load lengths offered are for mediumwheelbase model 5,546mm and for the long-wheelbase model, 5,940mm. Cargo volume for the medium-wheelbase eDeliver 9 is 9.7 cu m3, while the long-wheelbase model

comes with a capacity 11 cu m3. Maximum payload is up to 1,700kg.

Looks In the flesh, the eDeliver 9 looks a lot like a Ford Transit, which is a compliment. So you get a large front grille, high bonnet and LED headlights. Inside, Maxus has created a cabin that in terms of quality and finish, is a million miles away from the old EV80 and is a nicer place to be than many other van in this sector.

Continued on page 36

MAXUS partners with Eastern Western Motor Group to expand Scottish dealer network MAXUS has partnered with Eastern Western Motor Group to grow its dealer network in Scotland with the addition of a new dealership in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. The dealership now offers MAXUS sales, service and parts across the Central Belt of Scotland.

The addition of Western Maxus brings the total number of MAXUS dealerships in Scotland to four, with more than 42 now located right across the UK. The new dealership is just 10 miles south-east of Glasgow City Centre and 37 miles west of Edinburgh.

Mark Barrett, General Manager of Harris MAXUS, said the expansion of its dealer network was great news: “We are thrilled to have partnered with Eastern Western Motor Group to bring a new MAXUS Dealership to Scotland. We always look for partners with a 34 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

solid track record, not only in sales and customer service but in aftersales, too. Eastern Western Motor Group is a family-owned business for almost 100 years and its reputation is second to none. As such, we know our brand is in good hands with the team at Western Maxus.

“Geographical location is also important as we continue to build nationwide coverage and this new dealership is perfectly placed to look after customers old and new in the Glasgow and Edinburgh region. We look forward to seeing more MAXUS vans on the road and a successful partnership in the years ahead.”

Speaking about the new partnership with MAXUS, Rory Allen of Western Maxus Bellshill commented: “We are very proud to include MAXUS as part of Eastern Western Motor Group’s offering. Backed by SAIC, which is

one of the largest eLCV manufacturers in the world, and their multi-billion investment in innovation, MAXUS has become a market leader, particularly when it comes to eLCVs. “MAXUS’ latest commercial vehicles are a game-changer. The brand offers a fantastic range of large and medium-sized electric vans which have class-leading features including the longest range of any EV Van, and full towing capability.

“We are looking forward to welcoming MAXUS customers to our Bellshill dealership where they will be looked after to the highest standards.”

A dedicated MAXUS team is officially in operation at the Bellshill dealership and ready to help customers new and old. Contact Western Maxus today by calling 01698 498988. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: MAXUS eDELIVER 9

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Build quality and range make this eDeliver 9 a van to take seriously Continued from page 34 A quick walk around the outside of the van and a soft tap here and there reveals a far more rigid panel van than the previous LDVs, which should reassure potential customers that the Chinese-built Maxus is to be taken seriously.

Interior There’s plenty of top notch black and chrome plastic on show and generous cabin storage, including a large glove box, deep storage space in the doors, hidden space under the bench seating, a foldable seat back with two cup holders and a built-in tablet holder. The dashboard also includes cup holder storage along with a selection of other storage options above the glove box and windscreen visor. You also get twin USBs and mini jack port, a 12v power socket and on medium and high roof versions, overhead storage too.

Equipment Standard equipment includes LED daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, central locking, AirCon, electric windows, a multifunction steering wheel, DAB radio with Bluetooth and an eight-direction adjustable driver’s seat. Move up to the Luxury version and this adds a 10” touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera with guide assist and no key entry and start.

The eDeliver 9 also features standard safety technology such as, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, hill start assist and driver and passenger airbags.

On the road As we mentioned, after the spartan EV80 the dashboard comes as a bit of a shock, but in a good way; it looks and feels high end. Again, Maxus designers have cleverly utilised some of the design and layout from its competitors’ vans – after all, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery! It not only looks good, it works well too, especially the 10” touchscreen and Apple

the van into battery draining territory. You can select three levels of regeneration via the gear lever, which allows you to increase or decrease the regen accordingly.

The van also comes with three driving modes – Eco, Standard and Power – enabling you to conserve battery range even further or if you are carrying a heavier load or are driving in a hilly area, switch up to Power mode as required.

CarPlay, which allowed us to sync our iPhone quickly and utilise Google Maps.

The eDeliver 9 is easy to drive, offering nimble steering and a pleasantly smooth ride that you don’t often find with electric vans. On the motorway and once up to speed, we engaged cruise control and this allowed us to relax into the ride. The cab remained relatively quiet, with only some road noise causing us to turn the radio up a touch. Driver visibility is good, with the side mirrors offering a great view of what’s behind when overtaking. The seats are comfortable and there’s a good view of the road around you.

Driving around the Warrington area, one that’s notorious for congestion, the eDeliver 9 really started to shine, negotiating stop-start traffic and some ubiquitous road works with aplomb. The one speed electric gearbox makes for relaxing urban progress. We reverse parked the van in a car park and the parking sensors and rear view camera definitely made this task easier.

Overall, the two hours we spent mimicking a van driver’s journey, short motorway and urban roads, was really enjoyable.

Regeneration The eDeliver 9 is limited to a top speed of 64mph, meaning you’ll not be tempted to push

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Pros Only the Fiat Professional e-Ducato can match it for battery range and until Ford’s new E Transit arrives, the eDeliver 9’s range is a deal breaker for us. Excellent cabin build quality. Great selection of sizes and specialist conversions. Impressive ride and handling.

Cons These are few and far between. We’d have liked to see more variants – the options aren’t great when set against the e-Ducato, for instance – but having said that, if you find your needs are catered for by the eDeliver 9, you’re on to a winner.

CC&V VERDICT The brand has taken care to make the e Deliver 9 as practical as the competition while giving it a very car-like cabin backed by the latest safety features and onboard tech to make it relevant. It’s light years away from the old LDV EV80 in terms of build quality and body-rigidity and should reassure any doubters that Maxus is a name worthy of your consideration.

CC&V RATING: NNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: LEVC VN5

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VN5 offers some unique touches that impress The LEVC VN5 is just that little bit different – and what makes it different is its eCity technology. It’s powered by a lithium-ion battery and features a petrol range extender to maintain the battery charge state. The battery always powers the motor and drives the vehicle, while the range-extender acts as a back-up generator and trickle-charges the battery to maintain its current state of charge. When the 31kWh battery is depleted (after about 58 miles in the VN5), the 1.3-litre range extender engine kicks in and charges it back up again, providing a total range of over 300 miles. There are three driving modes: Pure EV, Smart and Save.

Practicality The VN5 may be electric but it has to offer van customers what they want and the company has tried hard to deliver on this. With up to 5.5m3 capacity, VN5 cargo capacity will take two Euro-sized pallets with a gross payload of 830kg. The side-loading door will let you load a pallet though it, and the 60/40 split door at the rear makes loading and unloading easier.

Warranty and build quality The VN5 is actually built from strong and lightweight bonded aluminium monocoque and SMC construction. This technology is resistant to corrosion and will absorb twice the crash energy of mild steel. In addition, VN5 features

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SMC panels which are resistant to dents and can shrug off minor impacts. In addition, there’s a class-leading five-year/150,000-mile vehicle warranty and a battery warranty of eight years/150,000 miles.

Pros and cons The VN5 is, in fact, a range-extender van, making it a unique proposition for city-based drivers.

Furthermore, where few EV cars currently come with more than a standard 3-pin and 7kW charging lead, the VN5 offers 50kW DC rapid charging and minimum 11kW AC fast charging capability from the off.

On the downside, its 830kg payload and

5.5 m3 of load space leaves it trailing the diesel competition for practicality.

Conclusion While it may not offer the payload or cubic capacity of the diesels out there, it is being marketed by LEVC as the perfect ‘delivery to door’ solution.

Thanks to its petrol engine, which gives it a 300-mile range, it isn’t just a ‘last mile’ solution and may be the van you need to transition gently into the electric market place.

CC&V RATING: British built and different NNNN

Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 37

VOLKSWAGEN COMMERCIAL NEWS

No arguments: the Multivan is the perfect option to keep the family on the move Order books for the Volkswagen Multivan are now open, with the all-new model starting from £43,160*.

Customers have a choice of three trim levels – Life, Style and Energetic -two vehicle lengths and three powertrains – 1.5 TSI 136PS, 2.0 TSI 204PS and 1.4 TSI 218PS eHybrid. A 2.0 TDI 150 PS engine will follow in spring.

Marking a new era for Volkswagen CVs, the Multivan replaces the Volkswagen Caravelle 6.1 and features a fresh design, more flexible interior, improved connectivity and, for the first time, a plug-in hybrid option.

The new model, based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, provides customers with up to seven seats and the perfect combination of practicality, comfort, and safety for whatever their needs: from chauffeuring to the daily school run to holiday adventures.

Exterior The Multivan has an all-new exterior design that pays homage to the DNA of its predecessor.

It is available with two wheelbase options – standard and long – with two trim levels: Life, Style, plus a special launch model – Energetic.

The standard Multivan measures 1,941mm wide, 4,973mm long, up to 1,903mm high, and with a wheelbase of 3,124mm. The long 40 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

wheelbase version increases length to 5,173mm. Overall, it means the new generation has a longer wheelbase and wider, lower profile - all designed to improve aerodynamics, lower fuel consumption, and increase range.

The Multivan is fitted with LED headlights as standard but can be upgraded to interactive IQ.LIGHT – LED matrix headlights, which offer a permanent full beam without blinding oncoming drivers, and dynamic cornering to provide precise illumination during bends.

Optional is a panoramic glass roof, with LowE laminated safety glass to reduce incoming thermal radiation by 44 per cent, as well as an electrically-operated rear hatch and power sliding doors, which can be operated via gesture control for ease of entry.

Interior Inside, the new Multivan is more flexible and spacious than ever, with a new modular, lightweight seating system and innovative table.

With space for up to seven seats, the rear five seats, which are up to 25 per cent lighter, can be moved and removed to suit, while the second row can be moved 180-degrees to create a conference style seating configuration.

The full-width bench seat for the third row has been replaced by individual seats to allow

single seats to be removed for flexibility.

An innovative multi-function table has been designed for the new Multivan. Using the central track it can be moved between any of the seating rows, and for the first time can be used as a centre console between the front seats. The table, which is completely removable, features adjustable height, three cup holders, and storage bin.

Enabling the flexible seating and table track system is the completely flat floor from front to rear seats with no centre console, made possible by the removal of the traditional handbrake. Instead, the parking brake is activated electronically by button, or automatically.

The new Multivan is offered only with an automatic DSG gearbox controlled via shift-by-wire technology, meaning the gearstick has been removed to further increase occupant space, with controls integrated into the instrument panel.

The Multivan offers 469 litres of luggage space behind the third row of seats, extending to 1,844 litres (1,850 litres with panoramic glass roof) behind the second row. The full cargo capacity up to the front seats is 3,672, extending to a maximum 4,053 litres in the longer version with the panoramic glass roof. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

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Engines and powertrain Based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, the new Multivan, which has a towing capacity of up to 2,000kg, is available with three powertrains, including for the first time in a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles model, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option.

The new Multivan eHybrid combines a 1.4 TSI 150 PS engine with an 85kW electric motor to produce a combined power output of 160kW / 218 PS, providing silent, zero-emission driving when in electric-only mode for short, urban trips while giving customers flexibility to enjoy longer journeys. The eHybrid uses a bespoke six-speed DSG gearbox.

The 13kWh lithium-ion battery is housed under the Multivan’s flat floor, saving interior space, and lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity to improve handling. The charging point is located on the right-hand side of the front wing.

From launch, the front-wheel drive Multivan is also available with two four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines: a 1.5 TSI 136 PS and a 2.0 TSI 204 PS. Both are twinned with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard.

Connectivity & Safety The cockpit area has been completely redesigned alongside a multi-function steering wheel, free-floating dashboard, and the new, minimalist shift-by-wire DSG controls. The Multivan features more than 25 driver assist systems enhancing safety, comfort, and convenience. Standard is the Front Assist area monitoring system, which includes City Emergency Braking, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and the Lane Assist system.

Pricing Prices range from £43,160 for the 1.5 TSI 136 PS Life model to £60,865 for the 1.4 TSI eHybrid 218 PS Energetic model with long wheelbase.

Even on the entry-level Life model, specification includes 16” alloys, seven seats, two sliding doors with power latching, a Digital Cockpit plus 10” infotainment system and front Assist and Lane Assist among many other standard items.

Style models, which start at £58,130 for the SWB 2.0 TSI 204 PS model, introduce the IQ. LIGHT LED matrix headlights, the Discover Media navigation system, Park Assist, electric sliding doors and tailgate with easy open feature, and 17” alloys.

The special launch edition - Energetic - starts from £59,515 and is available only with the 1.4 TSI eHybrid 218 PS powertrain. Additions include a Harmon Kardon sound system, privacy glass, 18” alloys, and panoramic glass roof.

Orders for the all-new Multivan can be taken now, and to celebrate, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is offering compelling offers on the all-new 1.4 TSI Multivan eHybrid. The eHybrid Life 218PS is available from £399 per month (for the Multivan Life 1.4 eHybrid 218PS 6-Speed DSG based on a 36-month, 10,000 mile per annum Solutions Personal Contract Plan).

All models also come with three free services when financed with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Financial Services until 31 March 2022. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

An exciting new Amarok is on its way from South Africa Whenever it’s a matter of large loads, difficult country tracks or off-road terrain, it’s time for the Amarok from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – and the great news for 2022 is, there’s an exciting new model this year.

The highlights of the new Amarok are as numerous as its possible uses as a pick-up are diverse. It will have its premiere this summer, and then be available to order at the end of the year.

The Amarok will be a completely new design. On the outside, for example, it will be ten centimetres longer and over four centimetres wider than the current version.

The versatile on-road and off-road vehicle is, however, being clearly upgraded inside as well.

“Commercial Vehicles impress through tough, honest design”, explains Albert-Johann Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “In this area, the new Amarok clearly is a winner.

“You can see that in the interior of the pick-up, too. The uncluttered architecture, the elements designed in a machine-like fashion, the clear, taut surfaces and a particularly high-quality cockpit raise the Volkswagen DNA to a new level and emphasise the Amarok’s right to claim premium vehicle

status.”

The Amarok will have even more comprehensive technical features that are of use not just as tools for work. In its latest generation the vehicle will have considerably more driver assist systems and the wherewithal to impress customers when it comes to connectivity.

The Amarok will from 2022 thus be featuring innovations that have not been seen before in this segment.

“In terms of drive system we are continuing to use highly efficient TDI diesel engines for the new Amarok”, says Lars Menge, Head of Product Marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “And there will be a powerful V6 TDI available in the future too, plus further power units specific in each case to the market. In other words, depending on the market the Amarok will be moving forward efficiently and powerfully as a diesel or petrol vehicle”.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Amarok has been in series production since 2010.

Since then, over 815,000 vehicles have been sold. Developed by teams in Australia and Europe, the latest version of the premium pick-up will be produced in future in the South African city of Silverton.

The VW Caddy rounded off a great 2021 by being awarded the top five star rating on Euro NCAP’s latest crash test series.

The test consortium has shown the new Caddy MPV has not only become appreciably safer, but that it is one of a group of currently top-rated vehicles that perform especially well in various crash scenarios.

Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 41

ON TEST: FIAT PROFESSIONAL e-DUCATO

Time to think e-Ducato Two-and-a-half years after we first saw the e-Ducato in Turin, one finally arrived at Company Car and Van for us to drive. We already knew that it offered something different – a choice of batteries and a range extender – and because of this, we were confident in awarding it our Large Electric Van of the Year Award.

There’s a number of choices to make. First, battery: You can select from a 47kWh version with a city range of 146 miles, 103 miles on the combined cycle; or a 79kWh version with a city range of 230 miles, 165 on the combined cycle.

Body wise, there’s 24 combinations, so choose from panel-van, chassis-cab or passenger minibus versions.

Finally, dimensions and capacity. The panel van is available in three heights – H1, H2 or H3 – and body lengths – 5,413mm, 5,998mm or 6,363mm. With three wheelbase lengths too (3,450mm, 3,800mm and or 4,035mm) you end up with load volumes ranging from 10m3 to 17m3, with a maximum payload of 1,885kg for all versions. GVW goes from 3.5 – 4.25 tonnes.

They all feature a single electric motor that produces 190kW or 122bhp / 280Nm of torque.

Equipment There are two versions. With the MY20

42 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

entry-level version you get a 5” touchscreen with DAB, Bluetooth, automatic climate control, a tablet holder, a USB port, heated mirrors, LED lighting in the load area and twin-leaf rear suspension. Step up to Tecnico and you’ll enjoy a 7” touchscreen, AppleCar Play and Android Auto, radio controls on the steering wheel, a driver’s seat armrest and lumbar support.

Battery charging At home on a 7kWh charger, we recommend Rolec – http://www.rolecserv.com/homecharging – the 47kWh version will take seven hours to charge to full, or on an 11kW wall box just under five. The larger 79kWh battery takes eight hours to fill on an 11kWh charger, which comes fitted on board as standard. On a 50kW public charger it will take 50 minutes to recharge the 47kWh van to 80 per cent, or 90 minutes for the 79kWh battery.

If you’ve been following the EV revolution, you’ll be aware that most electric vehicles come with some form of battery regeneration, usually tied to braking and eco driving. e-Ducato is no different and features e-Coasting and e-Braking regenerative systems, which feed energy into the battery when you’re slowing down.

There are three driving modes: Normal, Eco and Power, all of which do exactly as you’d

expect. Eco is obviously the best at preserving the battery range, power for accelerating.

Costs The entry-level version of the panel van with the 47kWh battery starts from £47,675 excluding VAT, with the plug-in van grant deducted. The larger 79kWh battery version may have the range, but it costs over £60,000, deep breaths, although this is compatible with the competition. However, operators won’t be buying their e-Ducato, rather leasing it on a monthly outlay and it’s this cost that will actually be relevant.

On the road Unlike the eSprinter, the e-Ducato takes a few seconds for the battery to engage before you can set off. You need to press the foot brake while turning the ignition key with the gear lever set to N-H. Once engaged you come straight back for reverse or down and to the left for Drive. The van then moves off quietly and smoothly. To utilise the e-Braking you push the gear lever once more to the right which engages this and give you a few extra precious miles of range.

Driven unladen, as our test van was, the ride is quite harsh, especially over poorly maintained

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roads. It’s a result of the battery weight. But don’t panic: even £70,000 electric cars suffer from this, it’s the way of the EV. I’m guessing that laden it’s less obtrusive.

On the motorway, our 3,500kg e-Ducato was limited to a top speed of 62mph, with the larger 4,250kg version limited to 56mph. While this makes for slow progress, it does conserve the battery range for longer, which in the 47kWh version you really need to do.

Where the e-Ducato shines is in town where stop-start driving enables the clever regen to take affect. The high driving position offers a good view ahead and progress is smooth, with the electric powertrain offering enough power to keep up with traffic.

Range is good. A 25-mile motorway run saw a 70-mile range drop to 39, which isn’t too bad.

A bit of urban back and forth added another 25 miles to our driving and the range fell to 9 miles, so time to plug in overnight. Winter and electric range do not go hand in hand. We’d expect a warm summer range on the 47kWh battery to be a comfortable 115 miles, while in December, it’s more like 80 miles.

Pros Two battery choices, 24 versions, biggest payload in sector, there’s an e-Ducato for everyone.

Cons Expensive to buy, tiring if driven only in Eco

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mode. Real world economy 20 per cent lower than claimed.

Conclusion With an industry-leading choice of body configurations, a cabin that features the latest on-board tech and safety, plus a highly practical payload and load space, the e-Ducato is perfect for businesses of all types.

We’d opt for the more expensive 79kWh version, mainly because of its range and on-board 11kWh charger. Charging large batteries takes time and anything you can do to

speed this up will work in your favour over the long run.

As far as the competition goes, the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter only offers a 90-mile range, while sister Stellantis vans the e-Relay, e-Boxer and Movano-e aren’t as flexible with range either, topping out under 150 miles. The MAXUS Deliver 9 matches the Fiat for mileage, but doesn’t offer as large a payload nor as wide a model size choice.

CC&V RATING: A class leading N N N N N

Company Car & Van | February 2022 | 43

CV NEWS: TOYOTA PROACE CITY ELECTRIC

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Toyota reveals its ‘ace in the hole’ for urban deliveries Proace City Electric launched to extend range of zero-emission battery electric LCV and people carrier Highly competitive new models ideal for access to urban low and zeroemission zones Van payloads up to 800 kg and across-the-board 750 kg towing capacity Powered by 136 DIN hp/100 kW electric motor with 50 kWh lithiumion battery Targeted WLTP electric driving range of between 260 and 280 km The new Toyota Proace CITY Electric marks a significant expansion of the Toyota Professional electrified light commercial vehicle (LCV) and people carrier line-up, giving the brand a strong contender in the high-volume compact van segment in Europe.

The new range offers customers an impressive breadth of choice: panel vans and five- to seven-seat Verso people carriers in standard (4.4 m) and long (4.75 m) wheelbase variants, and a long-wheelbase, five-seat Crew Cab. Following on from the recent launch of the Proace Electric and Proace Verso Electric medium-duty van and people carrier, it strengthens Toyota’s position in vehicle electrification.

Practicality is assured, too, with the EV models matching the load capacity of the Proace CITY models, with up to 4.4 m3, plus up to 800 kg payload and 750 kg towing capacity.

The potential for success is clear, with annual compact EV van sales having doubled since

44 | February 2022 | Company Car & Van

2017 to almost 20,000 units, with the market growing four times faster rate than for medium-duty EV van sales. The new models are ideally suited to fleet and small businesses who need capable, reliable transport they can use to access the increasing number of urban low and zero-emission zones, and from customers keen to improve their environmental profile.

Proace CITY Electric thus has great potential to help Toyota achieve its target of a powertrain mix of more than 10% zero-emissions in Europe by 2025. The new model will have a phased introduction in Europe, with models reaching the UK this quarter. Other markets will follow in the course of the year and in 2022.

Powertrain and Performance All Proace CITY Electric models are powered by a 136 DIN hp/100 kW electric motor, driving the front wheels. The powertrain also features a lithium-ion battery, integrated DC/DC charger/

converter, high-voltage connection box, ondulator and reductor.

The lithium-ion battery is located beneath the load compartment floor, avoiding intrusion in the load space. With 216 cells organised in 18 modules, it has a 50 kWh capacity. This enables a targeted WLTP driving range of between 260 and 280 km when fully charged, and a top speed of 135 km/h. In Power mode, acceleration from 0-100 km/h can be accomplished between 11.2 and 11.7 seconds depending on the version, and from 80 to 120 km/h between 8.9 and 9.4 seconds depending on the version.

Efficient charging options All Proace CITY Electric models are equipped as standard with a 7 kW single-phase on-board charger (OBC), or can be optionally specified with an 11 kW tri-phase charger. Type 2 cables for connection to a domestic power supply or a wallbox charging system are also supplied.

With the single-phase 7 kW OBC, a full battery charge can be accomplished in 7.5 hours. With the three-phase 11 kW OBC, charging time can be reduced to just 5 hours.

When the vehicle is connected to a pubic or business 100 kW DC fast charger, an 80 per cent charge can be achieved in just 30 minutes.

Charging status is indicated by a lighting system around the inlet socket, located in the rear left-side wing. When the cover is opened and the cable is attached, white illumination signals the vehicle is in stand-by mode, ready for charging to start; when charging is in progress, this changes to a green flashing light, then solid green when charging is complete.

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CV NEWS: TOYOTA PROACE CITY ELECTRIC

Continued from page 44 A red light indicates there is a defect or problem; a blue light indicates that a charging session has been scheduled.

Battery cooling Effective battery temperature management is key to maintaining performance and driving range, in cold and hot conditions. The Proace CITY Electric’s lithium-ion battery uses a glycol water-cooling system that is refreshed by a cold loop device and warmed by an electric heater.

This helps maintain battery charging time and efficiency and ensures optimal battery performance across a wide temperature spectrum, from -40 to +55˚C. E-toggle and drive mode selector In place of a gear shift, the Proace CITY Electric has an e-toggle control on the centre console to engage Park and select Drive, Neutral and Reverse.

There is also a “B” switch to gain additional regenerative braking energy to help charge the battery each time the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal.

Eco, Normal and Power drive modes can be selected using a switch alongside the e-toggle, to suit the driver’s preference, the load being carried and driving conditions. In each mode, the motor’s power and torque are adjusted; in Power and Eco modes the throttle mapping is also changed.

Peak output in Power mode is 100 kW with 260 Nm of torque; in Normal the output is 80 kW with 210 Nm; and in Eco (appropriate when carrying heavy loads), the levels are reduced to 60 kW and 180 Nm. An electronic parking brake is also fitted as standard.

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Practicality assured The introduction of battery electric power doesn’t compromise Proace CITY Electric’s practicality. The load space extends to 4.4m3 on models where the clever Smart Cargo system is specified, with extra storage capacity gained through a folding passenger seat mechanism and through-loading facility. Maximum payloads are 800 kg for the standard wheelbase version (L1) and 750 kg for the long wheelbase model (L2); both vans can tow braked loads of up to 750 kg.

The compact vans are offered with two individual front seats or driver’s seat plus a two-seat bench. The Verso gives excellent flexibility, with five and seven-seat configurations for both wheelbase lengths.

The Crew Cab model (L2 long wheelbase only) can accommodate five people on board.

Model grades and equipment The Proace CITY Electric range mirrors the grades of the Proace CITY range, across both van and Verso models, offering the same equipment specifications for practicality, safety, comfort and convenience.

The compact van is available in Base and Comfort specifications. The entry-level version is a straightforward, workhorse model, focused on practicality and low cost of ownership. The

“The entry-level version is a straightforward, workhorse model, focused on practicality and low cost of ownership....”

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Comfort version will additionally provide side door-loading, larger 16-inch wheels with covers and the Smart Cargo load-extending system.

Proace CITY Verso Electric will likewise follow the grade structure of the Proace CITY models with Combi, Shuttle, Family and Family+ versions, the latter a high-specification model equipped with a colour head-up display, satellite navigation and 17-inch alloy wheels.

In addition to the e-toggle and drive mode selector, all models will feature additional EV-specific functions in the 10-inch TFT multi-information display, including battery capacity and power consumption data. Owners can also use the MyT app to access connected services via their smartphone. This allows remote operation of the air conditioning system (to pre-heat or cool the cabin prior to a journey), battery status monitoring and management of remote charging and the vehicle’s charging schedule.

Extensive safety and driver assistance systems Both the Proace CITY Electric van and Verso models benefit from the wide-ranging active safety systems of Toyota Safety Sense that are the most comprehensive in their class. Features include active and post -collision braking systems, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition with intelligent speed assist, driver attention warning, trailer stability control, high beam assist, blind spot detection and Advanced Grip Control with Hill Ascent/ Descent Control.

Driver assistance is also impressive, with the availability of parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and, for the van, the Visiopark 180-degree system for an all-round, bird’s eye view of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings. www.companycarandvan.co.uk