Company Car and Van October 2024

Our October print and digital issue is packed with post-summer news and reviews as there’s a lot happening at pretty much every car and CV manufacturer and franchise.

In this issue we have Q & As with MG Head of Fleet Geraint Isaac to talk all things plug-in and electric as the brand launches a new HS PHEV; and a trip to The Hague gave us a chance to drive the updated Toyota Professional range and grab a coffee with Toyota’s Head of Commercial Vehicles Gareth Matthews to discus the company’s plans for 2025.

As we edge ever closer to the ban on ICE sales, the BVRLA lays out its hopes for electric transformation in our industry, while Leasys tell us how electric vehicles can drive SMEs to success. Northgate makes a move into electric, and EV charging experts Rolec and Mobilize, and CV sales specialists Vanaways, tell us more about what they do so well.

On the car front, a trip to the Cotswolds saw us take in the all-new MINI Countryman Electric/Cooper Electric. These models will spearhead the brand’s electrification in the fleet sector, and we put one to the test in busy Bourton in the Water. Peugeot has launched the electric E-3008, a great-looking five-door SUV which comes with an electric range of up to 422 miles. Can it please the electric range naysayers? We find out.

The Jeep Avenger comes in a cute electric

package that deservedly saw it win our Small Electric Car of the Year award for 2024. Find out why inside.

As JLR heads to full electrification, it’s well worth remembering that it has an excellent range of plug-ins offering very low BIKs. We highlight the Range Rover Velar P400e and Land Rover Discovery Sport P300e. We also take a look the new Cupra Tavascan, the brand’s second electric model, spend an overnighter – literally! – in the Hyundai Santa Fe which proves enlightening, and the SEAL U DM-i, BYD’s first plug-in hybrid company car offering, is also featured.

In CV news, congratulations to Renault after its Master won the coveted International Van of the Year Award. We’ve a comprehensive guide to the exciting new electric E-Tech model which means that Renault now offers customers three electric vans. And in Hanover, the new Gen 7 Volkswagen Transporter and Caravelle have been unveiled, and we’ve a run through of both in this issue.

Elsewhere, Mercedes-Benz’s latest eVito offers customers a much improved 163-mile range, Maxus’s mid-sized eDeliver 7 is leading the electric van charge and we drive Isuzu’s entry level Utility pick-up and report on a fantastic D-Max off-road driving day in Yorkshire

Andrew Walker, Editor and Publisher

More space, better range and a brilliant ride... the new Countryman Electric is the perfect MINI for our time. Andrew Walker reports

Those upgrades are electric, MINI

MINI has launched an electric version of its largest model the Countryman, and Company Car & Van had an opportunity to drive it recently. For anyone in the company car market full-electric cars are most definitely the thing to go for at the moment, with most electric cars now funnelled into the corporate sector.

Engine and range

MINI offers the Countryman with two electric trims. The Countryman E comes with a single 140kW motor on the front axle, producing up to 201bhp with a 64.8kWh battery and range of 287 miles. The alternative is the SE model with ALL4. This also runs the 64.8kWh battery but adds a second 140kW electric motor to the rear

axle, increasing power to 309bhp. However, it drops the driving range to 269 miles and adds 150kg to the car’s weight.

Model choice, spec and price

The MINI Countryman Electric is available in three specs: Classic, Exclusive and Sport. The Classic E costs from £42,080 with the most expensive SE ALL4 Sport version costing from £50,880. Other models fit in between.

All versions come with the same circular 9.4-inch central OLED touchscreen that’s featured on the new MINI Hatch. Classic also features a heated steering wheel, an electric boot, SatNav and dual zone climate control. Next up is Exclusive which adds 18” alloys, body-coloured grille surround, front bumper

and side skirts, a sports steering wheel, John Cooper Works (JCW) Sport seats, a houndstooth pattern for the decidedly different textile dash panel and a ‘Spray-Tech’ roof, which blends three colours.

Sport takes things further with 19” black alloys, sportier bumpers, exterior stripes, JCW brakes, steering wheel and John Cooper Works badging on the synthetic leather seats.

Outside

MINI has kept the essence of previous Countryman’s in the way the Mk3 looks, with the octagonal grille and lighting signature at both the front and rear taking their cue from the most recent Mini Cooper. What’s different on the Countryman Electric is the shape of the

headlights and a choice of rear light patterns including Union Flag and St George’s Cross.

Being 13cm longer and 6cm taller than the previous version, the most noticeable change is the elongated C pillar, and to differentiate from the petrol versions, Electric MINIs are tagged by flashes of yellow. The SE All4 gets ‘S’ badges on the front grille and next to the Countryman lettering on the boot. And there are no exhaust pipes, of course.

Inside

The interior has been completely redesigned. The highlight is definitely the textile-inspired dashboard front which runs the width of the car and onto the door panels. On our red and black test car this was coloured red and black.

Four slim vertical chrome air vents and the circular speedo infotainment screen are the only instrumentation on the dash, with some neat toggle switches located underneath. These include the starter button, driving modes and gear lever. Beneath this on our SE ALL4 test car was a landscape phone charging pad, twin cup holders and a large armrest with storage underneath.

The interior door handles are vertical, chrome, narrow and very tactile, and the front seat headrests feature a neat ‘U’ shaped hole. The quality throughout is excellent and to keep up MINI’s green credentials, much of what is used is from recycled textiles.

Extras

Of course, any new MINI, in line with sister brand BMW, offers you plenty of extras in packs to pimp your car up to the spec you want. Our test car included a Sport Pack costing £3,700 which added black sports stripes, a John Cooper Works steering wheel,

Quality throughout is excellent... the info system is amazing and really in-depth... “ “

a black roof, sport brakes, sport seats, an Anthracite roof lining and Sport trim.

Another option is the Level 3 pack at £5,300, which brings useful additions such as the panoramic glass sunroof, sun protection glass, electric memory sears, 22kW high speed charging, a Harman Kardon sound system, high-beam assist, Parking Assist Plus, Driving Assistant Professional and MINI SatNav.

Infotainment

The new system fitted to the Countryman is called the MINI ‘Interaction Unit’ and it runs Android-based System 9 operating software. This has been specifically designed to look and feel similar to a modern smartphone, so you can stream video and play games on it too. It also offers the MINI Experience Modes whereby you can configure different settings: Core, Green, Go-Kart, Vibrant, Timeless, Balance and Personal. Only three of these –Go-Kart, Core and Green – actually change the way the Countryman Electric drives, by either altering the levels of regenerative braking allowing for an increased range, lightening or tightening the steering, most noticeable in town, and increasing or decreasing accelerator response, something you’ll get hooked on if you driving in Go Kart mode.

The circular display is in keeping with MINI’s heritage, with the operating system, graphics

and speed all very impressive. You also have an avatar in the voice control system, as on SMART #1. It can be either a Bulldog or a cartoon MINI, which would certainly appeal to the kids. We only spent an afternoon fiddling with the info system but it is amazingly comprehensive and over time you’ll realise just how in-depth the whole set-up is. Just beware that it’s easy to get lost in the system’s sub-menus, there are so many.

Practicality

The elongated Countryman, even in electric format, offers a 460-litre boot, rising to 1,450 litres with the rear seats folded. The boot floor also has some useful hidden space beneath where there is room for your cables. Better still, the rear seats can be moved back and forth by as much as 13cm with the seat backs individually reclining in six positions by up to 12 degrees. This puts it firmly in the small family SUV sector as far as practicality goes.

Up front, the door pockets are massive with smaller ones in the rear. You’ll find four USB C inputs, two in the front and two in the rear, a useful-sized glove box, the aforementioned wireless charging pad, twin front cup holders and the armrest with storage beneath.

Safety

The new Countryman features MINI’s new Level 2 semi-autonomous driving tech. This includes Automatic Active Cruise Control with Steering and Lane Assistant, which allows drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel at up to 37mph. Our test car’s extras included adaptive LED headlights, High Beam Assist, Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assist Plus.

Continued on page 6

Continued from page 5

Performance

With 494Nm available, the Countryman SE ALL4 will accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds; that’s rapid. The single motor E will do the same in a more mediocre 8.6 seconds.

Charging

If you’re mainly charging at home, the Countryman SE comes with a standard 7.4kW set-up, so a full charge from empty will take about nine hours. Or opt for the on-board 11kW charger that will reduce the time to six hours.

You can also add as another option a 22kW AC system for faster charging away from home.

On the road

As with the petrol version we drove earlier in 2024, the longer wheelbase brings with it a more comfortable, less fidgety ride than before, with the addition of the battery and electric motors, all 450 kgs of it on the ALL4, somehow making the electric version just as much fun to drive.

Our test route was across the undulating Cotswolds near Broadway, and the loop up Broadway Hill, which is two lanes, really highlighted just how good the electric Countryman’s road holding is. We also headed out onto the M5 for a couple of junctions and with adaptive cruise control and the quietness of the car, this was enjoyable too.

Handling

We’ve praise for the steering which is so sharp that you barely need to move it when you venture out of the city. In fact it’s so good

that this maxi-Countryman feels smaller and nimbler than you’d expect and it succeeds in being engaging, a goal we thought this steroid-injected Mini would struggle to deliver. The suspension is on the stiff side and that could let things down, but it doesn’t. While road imperfections are there, in most scenarios the Countryman just glides through with the longer wheelbase aiding things. Up front there’s plenty of width so you sit comfortably in the sports seats. In the rear two six-footers will be happy with the head and legroom with only the centre passenger left feeling a little squashed.

Thus far, we’ve praised the Countryman Electric but what about its faults? Here’s irony: our biggest complaint is about arguably

More fun to drive than anything electric in its class... with funky retro features too “ “

the car’s best internal feature, the infotainment screen. While it looks fantastic it contains all of the driver info, so not only the media, but your speed and the SatNav. The constant need to glance left to read these is a distraction, and as for the climate controls, annoyingly you adjust the temperature using two tiny sliders which are located at 5 and 7 o’clock on the touchscreen, which is also hard to do without looking. Thankfully, MINI does offer a Heads-Up Display as an extra, which we’d definitely recommend getting.

Pros

Roomy, comfortable and a lot more fun to drive than anything electric in the class. Retro details inside will be popular with many.

Cons

The central circular touchscreen may cause new owners some sleepless nights. As per usual with MINI, you have to pay more to get the extras you may want. Electric versions cost more than petrol versions.

Verdict

When the first modern incarnation of the Countryman arrived, many MINI devotees baulked at its size. If that was you, the latest version will have you apoplectic. It’s not a MINI anymore, more a Maxi, and that could challenge some fans. But the Mk3 has a few tricks up its sleeve, and MINI’s engineers have managed to make it not only very drivable, with some MINI of old DNA, but have created a decidedly different family car too, with decent interior space and a useful boot. Kudos too for the inclusion of the old-school central infotainment screen and toggle buttons, which really make the Countryman stand out. Perhaps a separate speedo and manual climate controls would have been a good idea, but otherwise this is an electric car we’d happily drive every day.

CC&V VERDICT

Making it more Maxi than MINI adds more family appeal, and those hankering for a MINI of old will love the look and drive. Electric version best there is on the road

CC&V RATING: N N N N N

BVRLA urges action to stablise used EV market

The Government must act now to avoid further volatility in used electric vehicle values, which is damaging confidence in the transition and making new EVs more expensive.

That was the message emerging from a Parliamentary reception organised by BVRLA, which heard that used EV values have fallen 50% over the last 24 months.

The BVRLA is warning that the sector risks seeing further drops if no action is taken.

These falling values create a short-term benefit to used EV buyers but come at a huge cost to the finance companies and dealers that own and sell these rapidly depreciating assets. As a result, confidence in how well electric vehicles will perform in the used market is waning, putting pressure on finance companies to increase the monthly lease rates for new EVs to cover potential losses.

This negative loop is set to accelerate in the coming years. An ever-increasing wave of second-hand EVs will hit the used market, with insufficient demand to absorb it.

There are already signs that this used EV supply-demand imbalance is hampering demand for new EVs. By 2027, Oxford Economics believes that the collapse in used EV values will have resulted in nearly 300,000 fewer new electric cars being sold.

BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney said: “Vehicles start depreciating as soon as they are sold, particularly over the first few years. This is a fact of life and the cost of this loss in value is absorbed into the vehicle finance agreements that are responsible for around 90% of all new car and van sales.

“What is unprecedented and unsustainable

BVRLA lays out the used EV facts. Inset, BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney

is the scale of depreciation we are now seeing. Over the last two years, used EV values have dropped by 50% and are set to fall further.

“These losses are being swallowed by the leasing companies and fleet operators that have championed the switch to zeroemission vehicles. They cannot continue to bear this burden alone. The Government needs to intervene now to help bring confidence and stability back to this vital part of the automotive ecosystem. Together, we can deliver a ‘Happy EV After’.”

To champion this cause BVRLA has launched the #happyEVafter campaign. In conjunction with Auto Trader, EVA England, and the NFDA, the campaign outlines where policy changes, targeted incentives, and collaboration between government and industry can create a smoother transition that benefits all drivers.

Poor residual values and the resulting

inflationary pressure on new EV lease rates has already seen 220,000 lost EV registrations, leaving millions of tonnes of CO2 in the road transport network.

The #happyEVafter campaign is built on addressing three critical points: boosting confidence, balancing cost of ownership, and expanding accessibility.

Rolec EV and Sinexcel launch competitive 30kW DC charger

Rolec and Sinexcel have launched the UltraCharge 30, the most compact and affordable 30kW DC rapid charger to come to the market.

Purpose-built and designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses, councils, fleets, and destinations, the UltraCharge 30 is a versatile, future-proof EV charging solution. Wall or pedestal-mounted, the unit offers up to 30kW power output, delivering up to 10-80% charge in under 1.5 hours.

With 96% peak efficiency it optimises energy use, speeding up charging times and maximising ROI. It’s beneficial for sites looking to integrate a robust and rapid EV infrastructure.

Competitively priced, it is an accessible option with minimal upfront costs and easy installation. Compliant with the PAS 1899 accessible charging standard, it’s an ideal solution for destinations where accessibility is essential for serving a diverse customer base. Caravan parks, holiday parks, theme

parks, hotels, resorts, shopping centres, sports stadiums, and more should prioritise meeting accessibility regulations.

Businesses can offer pay-to-charge solutions and benefit from generating additional revenue. Activation is simple via ISO 15118 plug & charge, mobile app, and RFID, or with the added convenience of an optional contactless payment terminal.

Businesses who want to provide public EV charging have the option to fully fund the purchase and installation of 30kW DC units through Rolec’s strategic partnership with funding provider, Wattif. This allows businesses to benefit from implementing

the latest EV infrastructure without capital expenditure or investment risk.

The unit is available for preorder now, with deliveries available from early November.

Frankie Mellon, Rolec’s Managing Director, said: “I am thrilled to introduce the UltraCharge 30. It is a major step forward in delivering compact, cost-effective DC charging solutions. This unit is designed to supply rapid charging at an accessible price, with a focus on accessibility for all users.

The UltraCharge 30 builds on the success of its big brother, the UltraCharge 160, offering the same tried-and-tested technology in a smaller, very affordable package. It is ideal for workplaces where there is increased demand for both DC and AC charging solutions for fleets, visitors, and employees.

As the UK prepares for a net-zero future, Rolec EV will continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring that both homes and businesses are equipped for your electrification plans.

Don’t be scared: fleets can solve their electrification challenges

A comprehensive audit of vehicle use, coupled with the flexibility that long-term rental offers, can help smooth transition to an electric fleet

Matthew Boswell, Managing Director, Leasys UK

Three-quarters of all new electric vehicles are sold to fleets, placing their drivers at the very forefront of electrification. We shouldn’t be surprised by this; fleets have the budget capacity to invest in such a move and are also best placed to navigate any perceived pitfalls.

Nonetheless, electrification does present some challenges. And with anxieties surrounding maintenance costs and electric vehicle residuals, fleet managers need to be more proactive than ever before in meeting these challenges to ensure their electrification investments pay off.

One area that operators need to be proactive around is anticipating the composition of their electric vehicle fleets and navigating the choice of vehicle required. It’s easy to assume that an electrified fleet simply consists of one-for-one replacements.

However, this isn’t necessarily the case.

For example, consider a diesel van that currently spends all working hours transporting goods. If constant uptime for deliveries is a necessity for a fleet, a single electric vehicle replacement may not be an optimal choice – the electric van will need downtime to recharge. Instead, the most cost-effective option that fulfils business needs could be two smaller electric vans that

Rental can offer flexible and tailored mobility solutions to support transition “ “

can rotate between deliveries and recharging to guarantee consistent service.

Fleet operators need to anticipate changes to fleet composition like this before considering an electrification transition. Electric vehicle fleets should be designed to meet the expectations placed on business, and, for many, this will entail experimentation

to figure out what composition works best for them.

This is where solutions like long-term rental come into play, allowing fleets the benefit of vehicles without the liability and long-term costs of ownership. Long-term rental can allow for scalable but real-time changes to fleet composition, enabling operators to adapt to changing demands.

Another electrification challenge that fleet managers need to be proactive about is the question of charging infrastructure, and fleets should not be complacent or regard charging as an afterthought.

Operators need to look at the actual on-the-ground availability of chargers that face their drivers and routes – both in terms of whether there’s spare capacity for fleets operating in dense urban areas, or for charging support in more rural areas. Before a fleet electrifies, operators should audit all its routes and assess if its vehicles will be adequately supported with chargers.

For smaller fleets, such an audit can be done through off-the-shelf tools and apps. However, for larger and more complex fleets, operators will often have to conduct in-depth analysis of what infrastructure they have available to plan for every contingency and eventuality that may face their drivers.

Leasys UK has several strategic partnerships in place with companies like Allstar and Octopus Energy to provide fleets with tailored charging solutions and can help

Make an audit of all routes and vehicle use, coupled with the charging needed... “ “

businesses stay in control of spend and simplify the electric charge expense process.

An electrified fleet has very different needs to its non-electrified counterpart, and that means that operators need to proactively anticipate concerns. Failing to do this risks electric vehicle transitions being stalled, resources being wasted, and inconvenience for customers.

Fleet managers don’t need to face these challenges alone. Operational leasing providers like Leasys can deliver flexible and tailored mobility solutions through short, medium and long-term rental, a predictable cost structure, and consultancy to support transition at a pace and in a way that suits their business.

By using these solutions to take full advantage of their investments, fleet managers will not only unlock the immediate benefits of electrification – more sustainable and economical operations – but also deliver better outcomes for their organisations, their customers and society.

MG still champions of value as quality improvements bring fleet rewards

With a large chunk of MG sales coming from fleet, CC&V sat down with Geraint Isaac, head of Fleet Sales at MG, to learn more about its plans for continued growth in the corporate sector as the company marks its centenary year

CC&V: The MG4 has been a phenomenal success in the fleet sector and has arguably been the torchbearer for your other fleet-friendly models. What are your plans for MG electric cars going forward, and is the fleet sector one that you see as vitally important to MG as we move ever closer to 2035?

Geraint Isaac (GI): We have been delighted with the sales success of MG4, together with the many awards it has won. It’s on course to continue this success. We are probably ahead of the game somewhat with our EV offering and the introduction of further models in the next 12-18 months will only add to our comprehensive offering.

Fleet is extremely important to our business and its continued success.

CC&V: Your offering to fleet is not all full electric, with the launch of your all-new plug-in hybrid HS. What hopes do you have for it in fleet, and will MG continue to launch PHEVs alongside EVs in the UK car market?

GI: We think the new HS PHEV will be a popular car in the fleet environment. With a combination of a 75-mile EV range and 5% BiK, it is a compelling offer for any fleet driver. It will appeal to those still nervous about a full transition to EV, and even some drivers who converted to EV for the tax benefits but have

found it isn’t quite working for them.

We have further hybrid models being added to our range, which gives the fleet buyer genuine options to suit their needs.

CC&V: Your ZS electric is shortly to be updated. Is there anything you can tell us about this model and where it will fit into MG corporate sales?

GI: More details on the new car will follow in due course, but what I can confirm is that it will definitely be a great fit for fleet sales.

CC&V: Part of your success has been to offer value-for-money cars, but as each generation arrives, their build quality and on-board tech and safety is now much more upmarket. Given these huge improvements, can you keep your prices competitive for the foreseeable future?

GI: Our strategy is to do just that. Our cars

Our dealer network is a vital part of our success and have supported our growth in fleet sales... “ “

are continually improving in all aspects, but we still want our customers to realise the value MG offers.

CC&V: Another way that MG has built its customer base is through the franchise dealer network. How important are they to your corporate plans moving forward, and will MG ever consider going down the agency sales path?

GI: Our dealer network is a vital part of the success of our business. We channel the vast majority of fleet sales via our network as the end user then has a point of contact for future business, servicing and aftersales.

We have a number of highly regarded dealer groups representing our franchise that have established group fleet operations, and these have only supported the growth of fleet sales for MG in recent years.

With regard to agency sales, this is not something we are considering as a business currently.

CC&V: Finally, where do you hope to see UK MG fleet sales in 2026?

GI: I hope to see continued steady growth. With further product being added to the range and a selection of drivetrains to suit all fleet buyers, MG Fleet are in a good place but there’s always room for improvement. I have a great team supporting me, and we are enthusiastic about the future.

We think the HS PHEV will be popular with fleets, with its 75-mile range... “ “

Sunday Times 100 recognition validates the Vanaways approach

It was a proud moment for everyone in the Vanaways team when we were named in The Sunday Times 100 for the UK’s fastestgrowing companies this year.

Since 2020 we’ve grown sales more than five-fold to over £100m, and have moved from a Portakabin holding 15 people to a new Bristol HQ with more than 60 staff.

We must be doing something right. So what’s the secret to our growth?

Well, to begin with, we keep a customerfocused approach to our work, offering the best deals on the latest models either on purchase or on lease. We refuse to be beaten on price or customer service.

And we like to make it simple. We’re a paperless office, so our customers can order their vehicles from their mobile phone – with finance proposals taken online and order forms sent for e-signature. We keep customers continuously updated via text and email and aim to deliver vans within a week, or 10 days at most.

Now, we know that’s a service that few, if any, of our competitors can match. We’re using the benefit of our salespeople’s

unrivalled experience and contacts in the industry to massively undercut the prices that dealerships are able to offer. Matched with great customer service, it’s an offer which is hard to refuse.

More deeply, however, we believe passionately that technology is facilitating a

We offer a service that few, if any, of our competitors can ever hope to match...

“ “

new way of doing business – one which provides opportunities for disruptive new entrants to a marketplace which has for many years been dominated by large corporations which place the needs of shareholder profit over the good of the customer.

Our ethos is that putting great customer service first brings benefits in the long run – do a good job and the profits will come, not

the other way around. And we’re finding that there’s a healthy ecosystem of like-minded businesses which are collaborating to offer something new and vibrant – not just in our industry, but across the business spectrum.

That’s evidenced by the strategic partnerships we’ve announced over the past few months – with CHAS, with Fleetmaxx and with the Artura group of nationwide bodyshops. Between us we can offer the business community a wholly different suite of options for buying, risking managing, fuelling and maintaining their vehicles.

In general, it’s a people-based approach, not a system-based one. We’re all highly experienced, we’ve all worked in the big corporate industry and we know there’s a better way of doing things. It’s exciting to be part of this ecosystem of ethical, successful businesses.

So we’re looking forward to the next few years – continuing to grow, to prosper and to continue to offer dynamic, up-and-coming businesses, as well as large corporations looking to cut fleet costs, a better way of doing things.

Unplugged: Is electric mobility really the way for company car drivers?

Despite the global push towards electric vehicles (EVs) as a sustainable transportation solution, the UK is facing challenges in accelerating their adoption.

Frustratingly, many company and business drivers feel that there are still too many reasons not to drive electric, and these outweigh the positive reasons to switch.

One of the primary hurdles hindering EVs’ widespread adoption is the perception of insufficient charging infrastructure. However, significant strides have been made in expanding the network of charging stations. Zapmap recently reported that in the first four months of 2024, the rate of charge points being installed across the UK increased by almost 37% compared with the average across 2023. This means that there are now over 60,000 public charging stations across the UK’s road network.

But this isn’t the reason to adopt e-mobility. Driving electric is convenient and economical. Plugging in at home cannot be simpler and will provide sufficient charge for many business drivers, without the need to locate on street charging facilities. With the average

range of vehicles easily topping 300 miles, and the ability to charge overnight, vehicles can be ready for the journeys ahead without stopping en route.

Moreover, the cost of charging electric vehicles at home can be as little as 7p per kW on smart off-peak tariffs. This means that a vehicle with a 60kW battery can be fully charged for £4.20, and on a 300-mile range this is equivalent to just over 1p per mile!

Beyond immediate financial gains, electric vehicles also offer a long-term solution to mitigate fluctuating fuel prices. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, companies can shield themselves from the volatility of the oil market, ensuring stable and predictable transportation costs. This stability enhances budget forecasting and financial planning for businesses, fostering a conducive environment for growth and investment.

The maintenance requirements of electric vehicles are notably lower than their combustion engine counterparts. With fewer moving parts and simplified drivetrains, EVs experience reduced wear and tear, resulting in lower maintenance costs over the vehicle’s lifespan. Routine maintenance tasks such as

oil changes, spark plug replacements, and exhaust system repairs become obsolete, streamlining fleet management and minimising downtime for company operations.

For businesses, another compelling benefit of EVs for company car drivers is the accessibility to a private dedicated charging infrastructure. Workplace charging can benefit from the Government’s EV infrastructure grant, allowing businesses to get up to 75% off the cost of the work, up to a maximum of £30,000 and £350 off every charge point installed. These workplace charging solutions enable company car drivers to easily recharge their vehicles during office hours, or while attending meetings and visiting clients.

In conclusion, electric mobility offers a multitude of benefits for company car drivers, which for many businesses can outweigh the negative reasons for electric. Aside from cost savings and convenience, driving electric provides environmental sustainability. This not only aligns with corporate values of efficiency and innovation but also positions businesses as leaders in the transition towards a cleaner and greener future.

By incorporating electric vehicles into fleets, companies can drive positive change while reaping tangible rewards for their bottom line and the planet alike.

The lion’s roaring again

Peugeot has come back fighting with an all-electric mid-sized hatch that’s good enough to have every one of its rivals worried, says Andrew Walker

If you can’t beat them join them. Five years after Peugeot launched the E-208 with a 50 kWh battery, the brand and Stellantis have finally realised that in 2024 you need an electric car that will go at least 300 miles –and got down to work to make that happen. Welcome to the E-3008, the brand’s new EV which takes not only a swipe at established electric leaders such as the Tesla Model Y, but at pretty much everyone else’s mid-sized electric car as well. We spent a day assessing its merits and here’s how we got on.

What is it?

New electric car launches are almost ten a penny at the moment, but the Peugeot E-3008 is different, because it’s both Peugeot’s and Stellantis’s first of a series of BEV models being built on the new STLA Medium Electric powertrain.

In technical terms, it comprises a permanent magnet synchronous motor operating in tandem with an electric gearbox to deliver more power, efficiency and torque, powered by a 400V lithium-ion battery. In

efficiency terms it is the range that’s most improved, with up to 422 miles now available.

Charging

For AC charging, two types of on-board chargers are available, with an 11kW three-phase charger as standard. For DC rapid recharging, the Mode 4 socket on the new E-3008 is capable of charging speeds up to 160kW, enabling the E-3008’s standard range battery to be recharged from 20% to 80% in 20 minutes. Plug-in at home and on a 7.4kWh charger and charging takes eight hours from 20%-100%, or six hours from 20%-80%. The E-3008 also features V1G or Smart Charging function which can adjust the time and power at which the battery is charged to optimise charging costs. If you want a Heat Pump though it’s an extra.

Battery and range

The e-3008 comes with two new larger batteries: a 73kWh battery with a range of 326 miles and the larger 98kWh battery offering up to 422 miles of range. Both are single motor. A Dual Motor AWD will follow which will be fitted with the 73kWh battery and come with a 326 mile range.

Trim choice and power options

From launch, there are two trim levels, Allure and GT, both offered with the 210 Single Motor powertrain. Two more electric powertrains will join the range next year. The single-motor versions offer 345Nm/157kW or 345Nm/170kW.

The dual-motor AWD version provides a total power output of 320hp, a split of 157kW at the front and 80kW at the rear for a total 237kW. The front motor delivers 345Nm of torque and the rear motor 170Nm. Allure costs from £45,850, GT from £49,650

Exterior

Peugeots have been getting more handsome of late and the E-3008 is no different, introducing a fastback profile to the range for the first time. There’s a redesigned front end with slim LED headlamps, lion’s claw vertical light strips and a large Peugeot logo in the centre of the diamond-shaped front grille. Both versions also come with Peugeot-emblemed wheels, an aerodynamic profile ending with the sloping fastback rear, a narrow rear light band and a floating spoiler.

Interior

The i-Cockpit is still there but it’s had a major facelift. It’s now the ‘Panoramic’ i-Cockpit and features a floating, curved 21” HD panoramic screen that combines the head-up display with the central touchscreen. Slightly curved towards the driver, the screen looks fantastic and although most functions are accessed through it, Peugeot has sensibly included i-Toggles, its fully customisable touchsensitive buttons that can be programmed to provide quick access to up to ten of the user’s favourite functions; phone contacts, air-con and SatNav, for example.

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The instrument cluster sits in front of the driver, combining all the information relating to driving such as speed, power, driving aids and energy flow. You still have Peugeot’s compact steering wheel now featuring touch-sensitive controls, but the larger cluster is far easier to see above the wheel than before, a major plus for taller drivers. Ambient lighting and Peugeot’s Air Quality System (AQS) also feature.

Fixtures and fittings

Quality wise it’s the finest Peugeot cabin yet. Our test car the GT featured a light grey textile decor for dashboard, door panels and central console arch, Alcantara seating with leather effect seats and ‘Mistral’ black pillars and headlining. All of the finishes are excellent including the plastic glove box front and door pockets.

The GT was well specced, with dual zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel as well as tinted privacy glass for the rear doors, a reversing camera, 11kW on board charger and three 12V sockets, among a list of items too long to publish.

Performance and economy

Top speed is 105mph with a 0-62mph time of 8.8 seconds. WLTP Combined range for our test car’s smaller 73kWh battery is 326 miles. With zero CO2 emissions BIK is a tempting 2%. WLTP numbers suggest the E-3008 can hit 4.6 miles per kilowatt-hour and on our cross country test we were just above four miles per kWh so it is doable.

Practicality and interior space

The boot offers 40/20/40 folding rear seats, with a boot capacity of 588 litres increasing to a very useful 1,663 litres with the rear seats folded. E-3008 has an adjustable two-position boot floor with four luggage tie-down rings and two bag hooks, so there’s a place to hide a charging cable.

Despite the new fast-back roof line, there’s good passenger room on board, perhaps surprisingly for rear passengers, too. All seats are adjustable meaning everyone should get comfortable, and the cabin’s airy enough to not feel claustrophobic despite the black roof lining and slanted ceiling.

Infotainment

This is very much on trend. The HD touchscreen is fully customisable with ‘over the air’ map updates for the SatNav. Wireless Mirror Screen for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB, AM and FM radio, Bluetooth with 2 microphones so you can connect to 2 phones, a Smartphone wireless charger and 4 USB sockets, two front and two rear, also feature. We connected our iPhone seamlessly.

Safety

E-3008 has you very well protected and comes with adaptive cruise control with Stop

and Go, lane keep assist, speed limit sign detection, automatic emergency braking with collision warning, lane departure warning, Driver Attention Alert, long-range blind spot monitoring and Advanced Traction Control.

Warranty

E-3008 comes with Peugeot Allure Care for up to eight years/100,000 miles. This is in addition to the specific warranty on the electric vehicle batteries, guaranteed for eight years/100,000 miles for 70% of its charging capacity.

. Driving

No shocks, very typical of its kind. The all-new platform incorporates new front and rear axles and the single layer battery which sits low between the wheels. In theory this should help the ride, but as we’ve discovered it’s a near impossible trick to pull off. We’d point the blame here firmly at the new heavier battery, as the E-3008 doesn’t offer up much in the way of driving fun. Longer range = heavier battery = fidgety ride.

On the plus side, the steering is pretty good and the E-3008 manages to feel agile over undulating roads and through tight turns with little or no body roll. The steering is quite light, which is a bonus for urban driving, and the on-board parking aids make tight spaces accessible.

The paddle-mounted brake regeneration is a really good addition as is the all-new Panoramic i-Cockpit.

On the motorway the adaptive cruise control with distance adjustment makes longer journeys stress free. It’s all carried out within a quiet cabin aided by the acoustic windscreen, with the E-3008 scoring highly as a people-carrying motorway cruiser.

Driving modes and regeneration

As far as the driving regeneration modes went, we found that Low offers up a normal driving experience, Medium adds a tiny bit of regen and High a little bit more, but it’s some way off the no-brakes required one-pedal driving on the KIA EV6 or Hyundai Ioniq 5. There are three driving modes, Eco, Normal and Sport and they do things as you’d expect: Eco tones everything down and will help you eke out extra miles; Normal is a bit more fun; Sport is the most noticeable in changing the driving dynamics.

Pros

You won’t find a better looking electric car. A choice of two large batteries means the E-3008 offers far more appeal than previous electric Peugeots, with a class-leading range. On-trend tech and safety is a given. BIK of 2% makes it a company car winner.

Cons

The ride is disappointing, but that’s standard on large battery electric SUVs. Expensive to buy, so leasing is the logical way to get into one. When others offer one as standard, paying extra for a heat pump is a little tight of Peugeot.

CC&V VERDICT

In a competitive electric class, the E-3008 is no better nor worse than its rivals, costing the same price and driving in a similar way, but it’s far better looking than most and for some that may be the clincher.

A company car driver or fleet manager is most likely to want a long range on their EV over and above anything else, and on that count alone, the E-3008, with its class-leading battery range, is a resounding success. For CC&V this will be the company car choice of many.

CC&V RATING: N N N N N

Sports styling meets modern engineering in stunning Tavascan

CUPRA Tavascan latest new model from Spanish manufacturer as it continues to expand its electric offering

CUPRA Tavascan available to order NOW, with pricing from £47,340

Retail customers will be able to purchase a Tavascan on a 1% APR with £3,000 deposit contribution 48 months campaign plus either a complimentary Ohme charger or £700 charging vouche

CUPRA Tavascan matches electrification and performance; the most powerful version delivers 250kW (340PS), with dual-motor AWD system

New striking design language, delivering sporty proportions and the CUPRA aesthetic

CUPRA’s first all-electric SUV coupé, the Tavascan, is now open for order, with a special finance offer available to help convince customers to jump into this stunning new model.

You can secure one with just a £3,000 deposit contribution, with 1% APR (up to 48 months), plus either a complimentary Ohme charger or £700 charging voucher. Customers would also be able to purchase our eCare2 service plan for only £49.

The brand’s second fully electric model is available in V1, V2, VZ1 and VZ2 trims, and boasts an advanced all-electric system. The Tavascan is offered in two power outputs: 286PS and 340PS, with the 286PS providing enough capacity for a range of up to 352 miles thanks to the 77kWh net capacity battery pack.

Tavascan’s powertrain, coupled with its

DCC Sport Dynamic Chassis, allows the SUV coupé to reach 62mph in 6.8 seconds (5.5 seconds for VZ trims) from a standing start, reaching a top speed of 112 mph.

The battery pack offers 77kWh across all variants, and has a range of up to 352 miles, with the ability to be charged with either an AC charging system (up to 11kw) or a DC (up to 135kw) fast-charging network.

Alongside power, the Tavascan also showcases a new striking design. A mysterious and intimidating front packed with rich details, complimented with its three-triangle eye signature headlamp and “shark nose” features, gives the Tavascan an athletic and sporty aesthetic.

Marcus Gossen, director of SEAT and CUPRA UK, said: “We’re really excited about the Tavascan opening for order in the UK. This is a culmination of years of hard work, innovation, and design coming together to create the future of CUPRA. We’re equally thrilled to be able to offer customers the chance to reserve the first 50 Tavascan’s early, prioritising their order and making them one of the first on the road in the UK. The Tavascan marks the next step in the CUPRA electrification journey, and we’re delighted to be able to bring that to life on the UK roads from 11th September this year.”

Renault Master E-Tech 100% electric delivers the answers

The Renault Master – named the International Van of the Year last month – has added the E-Tech 100% electric to its ranks. It comes with a class-leading driving range of up to 285 miles*. Why is this so significant? Range is one of the biggest hurdles for commercial operators when it comes to all-electric vans. With its 87kWh battery, New Master E-Tech puts Renault’s large van at the forefront of the electric van world, but that’s not all...

*based on 87kWh E-Tech 100% electric L2H2 4T version. WLTP test data shown for comparability purposes only. Actual real world driving results may vary depending on factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted after registration, weather conditions, driving styles and vehicle load.

NEW AERODYNAMIC DESIGN

New Renault Master E-Tech features a refreshed design with a more rounded front end, a tapered roofline, and streamlined door mirrors, all carefully crafted and refined in a wind tunnel.

COST

The New Renault Master E-Tech is priced from just £42,500 which, when you include the £5,000 plug-in van grant, means it’s available for under £40,000, the same price as many large diesel panel vans.

KEEPING THINGS SIMPLE

Renault is offering the Master E-Tech in a single trim Advance, with one 87kWh battery size.

BODY SIZES AND DIMENSIONS

Renault has kept this simple too, with three body sizes offered in two lengths and two heights.

PRACTICALITY AND DAY-TO-DAY USABILITY

Renault has updated the practical aspects of the Master E-Tech. It comes with an increased load length of up to 3,855 mm*, so that longer items such as piping can be safely carried. The load volume of up to 14.8m3* (panel van only) allows for the transportation of even more goods such as large parcels for delivery and the wider sliding side door width of 1,313mm makes loading and unloading and easier than before.

A 1,625kg* payload means that transporting heavier items such as cement is also catered for and the towing capacity of up to 2,500kg offers flexibility when required. And with 22kW AC and 130kW DC charging as standard, drivers will spend less time waiting to charge up their vehicle and more time on the road.

OUR VERDICT

There you have it: the new Renault Master E-Tech 100% electric. A brand new large electric van that offers an excellent 285-mile driving range, charges at speeds of up to 22kW AC 7 130kW DC, features a payload of up to 1,625kg, will tow up to 2,500kg, has a wide opening 1,313mm side door, comes with up to 20 safety features, a 10.1” multi-media system with connected Apps, car-like comfort and best of all, costs from just £42,500 less the £5,000 plug-in vehicle grant.

CONVERSIONS

Not everyone wants a panel van and it’s good to know that the Master E-Tech is also available as a platform and chassis cab that can be converted by one of Renault’s 30 approved UK converters.

INTERIOR TECH AND COMFORT

Van drivers spend most of their working day inside their vehicle, so Renault has significantly improved the Master E-Tech’s interior, tech and safety to make journeys both easier and more comfortable. The seats are taken from the Renault Austral E-Tech which offers both comfort and support. Modern tech such as a 10.1” multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard and optional rear parking sensors and digital rear-view mirror allow for easier parking in your Master.

Further enhancing the cabin experience, an optional wireless charging port and heated front seats are available, while twin USB C inputs are standard on all Master E-Tech’s Optional openR-Link with Google built in* makes navigating urban areas in a more seamless and intuitive way even easier than before.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

The latest Master comes with up to 20 advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, Active Emergency Braking, intelligent speed assist with traffic sign recognition and overspeed prevention.An Emergency Call System and driver, passenger and side airbags are included. Security includes a perimetric and volumetric alarm as standard.

RENAULT MASTER E-TECH WARRANTY

The Master E-Tech gets Renault’s standard three-year 100,000-mile warranty, and three years’ roadside assistance.

*usable cargo capacity based on 87kWh E-Tech 100% electric L2H2 4T version

*load length based off LM35 version

*load volume based off LH35 version

* Google, Google Maps and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC

*It is your responsibility to stay alert, drive safely and be in control of the vehicle at all times. Driver assistance features have speed and other limitations and should not be solely relied on.

For more information, please refer to the owner’s manual or visit renault.co.uk/safety.

Northgate can be your trusted partner on the ‘Drive to Zero’

Northgate’s Drive to Zero proposition supports companies on their journey from diesel to electric LCVs

The longer that Northgate offers its Drive to Zero proposition to companies as they transition their LCV fleets from diesel to electric, the more we are aware that there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution.

Using its Drive to Zero Hub, Northgate starts by assessing a company fleet and its suitability for electrification, which includes everything from EV running costs versus ICE, driver access to charging at home and on the move, to matching up the right vehicle to the right driver and journeys.

Using data to initiate the transition

With the help of driver and/or telematics data, we can build a complete understanding of vehicles, their movements, distances travelled and journey times, which allows it to identify which vehicles can be immediately switched to electric power. And more importantly, which vehicles should be delayed until higher range electric LCVs are more readily available.

The outputs from the suitability analysis give a clear indication of carbon savings. Not all vehicles are suitable to switch to EVs immediately, but that doesn’t stop companies from reducing their LCV emissions even if they continue to run diesel LCVs.

Measuring and improving utilisation

“By measuring and then improving the utilisation of vehicles and drivers, companies can immediately reduce their carbon footprint even before they move to electric vehicles,” explained Neil McCrossan, Northgate’s Managing Director. “When a company is ready to switch to EVs these insights and data will be vital with helping decide which drivers and electric LCVs to put on individual delivery routes.”

Installing telematics is the number one way to help fleets track their vehicle journeys and utilisation and record individual driving styles to enable them to influence and improve driver behaviour. As an example, one customer saved £53,000 in the first year of installing Northgate’s telematics to its vehicles simply by avoiding congestion charge and other ULEZ fees.

Better route management also

immediately reduces mileage, fuel costs and therefore emissions. Right-sizing vehicles is another conversation our team has with operators, particularly around downsizing based on the capacity and weight of loads being carried which can have an immediate impact on carbon emissions.

Mix and match

All vehicle and driver data will help influence the electric LCVs that best match individual operator journeys when they start their EV onboarding process. “None of this

One customer saved £53,000 in the first year of installing Northgate’s telematics... “ “

initial work to reduce carbon levels will go to waste prior to EVs being added to a fleet,” said McCrossan.

The provision of suitable charging infrastructure is a crucial step to ensuring a smooth transition for any business, which Northgate manages in association with sister company ChargedEV.

ChargedEV can help companies understand their workplace charging, home charging or even public charging requirements to ensure the best possible solution can be found. It can also help and support with major infrastructure planning which involves working with local energy suppliers to install and futureproof a company’s charging needs.

Van rental and charger in a single bundle

Northgate is the only vehicle rental provider which combines van rental and charger provision as a single bundle, offering EV hire, and home charger installation and rental in a single monthly fee.

As part of our Drive to Zero programme we are continuing to host EV roadshows giving companies a chance to drive a range of electric vehicles and talk to experts on all the different aspects of electrification.

At the recent Reading EV roadshow, 62.5% of fleets admitted that carbon reduction was their main motivation for reducing emissions, with 22% saying they were motivated by the potential cost savings of moving from diesel to electric. A further 22% said their electrification journey was all about fulfilling customer requirements.

Despite this positive approach to carbon reduction, fleets remain concerned at the cost and implementation of the transition process. Just over one third (36.3%) said cost was a major concern while a further third (33.3%) said implementing the change was set to be their biggest challenge.

Like-for-like replacement

Meanwhile, 15.1% of fleets said they were concerned at both charging and vehicle choice in equal measure when looking to replace diesel LCVs directly with equivalent EVs. All these comments confirm that every company is different and their journey from diesel to electric will navigate a different route.

Northgate’s Drive to Zero has been set up to help that process, using its vast expertise of working with thousands of companies and running a fleet of 50,000 LCVs.

Range Rover’s stunning

Velar is a winner whichever way you look at it

The Range Rover Velar was comprehensively updated in 2023 and today stands as a pure expression of modern luxury. It features the latest technology, trademark Range Rover refinement and a dramatic, clean and reductive new design.

A new grille combines with the characteristic floating roof, unbroken waistline and flush deployable door handles that define the world’s most desirable luxury SUV family. New super-slim Pixel LED headlights provide a technical jewel like appearance and optimised visibility while the exterior is enhanced by a new lower rear bumper and dark accents.

Range Rover’s reductive design philosophy continues inside; a new single floating 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen is integrated into the centre console, providing immediate and intuitive control to all key vehicle functions. Meanwhile, a crafted interior features redesigned seats and new colours and materials, including a leatherfree cabin option.

A full suite of technologies promotes passenger comfort and wellbeing, operated from the new single touchscreen. To ensure a cosseted and calm sanctuary, free from interruptions and road noise, the New Range Rover Velar features Active Road Noise Cancellation. This intelligent technology ensures Velar offers the quietest vehicle in its class for road noise. Cabin Air Purification Plus is also available as an option, to enhance its calm cabin environment, with the convenience of built-in Amazon Alexa.

Software Over The Air ensures the New Range Rover Velar can always receive the latest software updates at the client’s convenience.

Prices start from £65,095 for the Range Rover Velar S P400e Petrol Plug-in Hybrid OTR.

VELAR FOR BUSINESS

When you choose a Range Rover Velar PHEV for your business, you will benefit from;

n Low tailpipe emissions, from 38 g/km CO2

n Low benefit in kind tax

.

Range Rover Velar PHEV owners will pay a monthly benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax from just 8% for the financial year 2023/24.

n All-electric range of 39.8 miles

Range Rover Velar PHEV is fully capable of managing commutes in full Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, with a range of up to 39.8 miles. This means the fuel consumption can be up to 167.9mpg

n Super-fast charging

Rapid DC charging from 0 to 80% in 30 minutes.

Home charging (from) 2.5 hours, up to 100% using a 7kW AC home charger.

n Stunning performance

Performance is exceptional still, with a maximum power of 404hp & a 0-60mph time of just 5.1 seconds.

STANDARD FEATURES

n Body-coloured roof

n 380mm front and 325mm rear brakes

n Heated windscreen

n Auto High Beam Assist (AHBA)

n Rain sensing windscreen wipers

n Electric windows with one-touch open/ close and anti-trap

n Acoustic laminated windscreen

n Heated, electric, power fold door mirrors with approach lights and auto-dimming driver side.

Driver assistance systems

n Adaptive Cruise Control

n Rear Camera

n Emergency Braking

n Driver Condition Monitor

n Lane Keep Assist

n Front and Rear Parking Aid

n Hill Launch Assist

n Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

n Low traction launch

n Electronic Traction Control (ETC)

n Roll Stability Control (RSC)

BYD SEAL is the stress-free alternative your fleet needs

BYD has taken the wraps off its muchanticipated BYD SEAL U DM-i – a new spacious and comfortable five-seater D-segment SUV.

It is the brand’s first plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) in Europe, and with a premium interior and high level of standard equipment, represents excellent value in its class.

For the first time, UK consumers can experience all the benefits of BYD’s advanced Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology which sets a new standard in intelligent PHEV innovation for exceptional energy efficiency, low fuel consumption and motoring performance.

Practical for longer worry-free journeys, the BYD SEAL U DM-i also produces a quiet, smooth ride that feels more like that of a pure-electric vehicle, with powerful acceleration and performance to match.

Offered in two trims with attractive pricing, the BYD SEAL U DM-i Design (all-wheel drive) price is £39,905, with the BYD SEAL U DM-i Boost (front-wheel drive) priced at £33,205.

BYD Super DM (Dual Mode) Technology prioritises eco-friendly, efficient electric driving with ultra-low petrol consumption, and longer range

Differing from other PHEV technologies, the BYD Super DM drivetrain prioritises electric power with minimal reliance on fuel, making it kinder to the environment, while effortlessly adapting to different driving conditions.

It comprises a highly integrated Electric Hybrid System, a 1.5L Xiaoyun Hybrid Engine (two variants depending on trim choiceDesign or Boost) with world-leading thermal efficiency and the ultra-safe, extremely

durable cobalt-free (LFP) BYD Blade Battery tailor-made for the hybrid platform. A significant feature of the Electric Hybrid System is its ability to intelligently switch between the two modes (EV and HEV) to prioritise electric propulsion whenever possible providing an efficient and more environmentally friendly vehicle. The engine charges the battery so electric driving is always available, with battery charge further assisted by regenerative technology.

The BYD SEAL U DM-i in Design trim (AWD) features two high-power electric motors (150 kW front and 120 kW rear) and an efficient 18.3 kWh BYD Blade Battery, complemented by the in-house developed 1.5L four-cylinder turbo-powered petrol engine, producing 96 kW. When working in conjunction with the two electric motors, the total system maximum power is 238 kW and the total maximum torque 550 Nm.

There is also the BYD SEAL DM-i Boost trim front-wheel drive option, powered by a 1.5L hybrid engine producing 72 kW operating with the 145 kW high-power electric motor, and also utilising the 18.3 kWh BYD Blade Battery. This produces total system power of 160 kW. The maximum torque power is 300 Nm. The BYD SEAL DM-i Boost offers an electric driving range of 49.7 miles (WLTP combined) and a total range of 671 miles when fully charged/fully fuelled.

Elegant and dynamic ocean-inspired design language

The BYD SEAL U DM-i uses Ocean-inspired design aesthetics, and is characterised by sleek, dynamic lines, and balanced proportions, with a distinctive X-shaped front

face and U-shaped headlights that fit seamlessly into the body. A pronounced upper beltline extends to the tail lights with sleek, defined side skirts accentuating the body shape, giving the BYD SEAL U DM-i an elevated and stylish SUV presence. The 19-inch alloy wheels give the car a sporty vibe. All this, combined with smooth and natural flowing lines, gives the vehicle a sense of power, strength and agility.

The interior is equally enthralling, with a premium and refined feel and high-quality finish throughout. Ergonomically designed vegan leather upholstered seats compliment a cockpit inspired by a desire to bring quality and modern infotainment systems at a lower price point than previously possible.

Exceptional intelligence, safety and high standard specification

With an abundance of equipment and intelligent technology, and a high specification as standard, the BYD SEAL U DM-i provides a rich environment of smart connected experiences, and represents exceptional value in its category. The BYD Intelligent Cockpit System is operated via the central touchscreen, offering smart 4G connectivity and a range of infotainment. Occupants can enjoy a premium 10 speaker audio system. Features such as Head-Up Display and Intelligent Voice Control are standard, plus two front charging points (one of which is wireless) and two rear USB charging points.

Optimised for safety, the BYD SEAL U DM-i also has a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance System, with both active and passive features to make driving both safer and easier.

A night out with the Santa Fe

“Come to Worcestershire and try Chabak.” So said Hyundai for the launch of its all-new Santa Fe. What’s Chabak, I asked? It’s Korean for literally ‘sleeping in a vehicle by evenly unfolding the seats.’ It’s become extremely popular in Korea because it’s simple.

How could we refuse, and since the last time I camped was 1982, off we went to drive the Santa Fe. Here’s what you need to know.

What is it?

The Santa Fe is now in its fifth incarnation. It’s Hyundai’s largest car and is offered in either a seven or six-seat configuration that’s perfect for large families and a getaway.

What’s new outside?

For a start it looks completely different. There’s echoes of Land Rover and JEEP from the side and front, with it’s H-shaped design elements and chrome grille. At the side, the quarter glass has been enlarged by 48% compared to the previous generation, so it feels brighter and larger in the cabin.

From the rear it looks like nothing else out there, with its large expanse of metal on the tailgate, a hidden rear wiper and two lowdown H-shaped LED lights.

Practicality

Inside it’s been designed to be as practical as possible with countless storage areas, cup holders, seat position adjustment and passenger conveniences with a boot space of up to 1,949 litres.

On Calligraphy, there’s even some built-in grab handles subtly hidden in the side bodywork to enable easier access.

Interior Hyundai has really gone to town here. There’s an H-shaped hidden mood lamp that extends from the dashboard to the front and rear doors, an all-new dual panoramic curved display integrating a 12.3” cluster and a 12.3” navigation screen. Elsewhere there’s a 6.6” climate control screen, a steering wheel mounted gear lever, a dual wireless charging pad with built in fan, a bi-directional centre storage space accessible from the front and second row of seats, integrated memory seats, seat foot rests, remote folding of the second row of seats. Everything is designed to be practical and user-friendly.

Engine range and performance

Two new Gamma powertrains are available, hybrid or PHEV. The 1.6 turbo hybrid variant features 215 PS engine output, 367 Nm of torque with a 0-62 mph acceleration in 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. The 1.6 turbo PHEV model boasts 253 PS engine output, 367 Nm of torque, 0-62mph acceleration in 9.3 seconds and the same top speed of 112mph. The hybrid is available in both 2WD and 4WD, the plug-in just in 4WD.

Model choice and prices

There are three trim levels: Premium, Ultimate or Calligraphy. Prices start from £46,775 to £54,105 otr for the hybrid and £51,830 to £57,580 for the plug-in variant.

Practicality

Inside it’s been designed to be as userfriendly as possible. There are countless storage areas, cup holders, seat position

adjustment and passenger conveniences. The boot goes up to a massive 1,949 litres on the hybrid, 1,942 litres on the PHEV with both sets of seats folded down. Even with the second row seats in situ you have 628 litres and 621 litres respectively. The hybrid will tow up to 1,110kg, the plug-in 1,010kg braked. There’s even some built-in grab handles subtly hidden in the side bodywork to enable easier access to the roof rails by supporting your foot on the rear wheel.

Convenience

Convenience features include seat back charging ports and a multi-clip for secondrow passengers, Digital Key 2 to unlock and start the car using a smartphone, an electric tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a haptic steering wheel that vibrates to alert the driver of potentially dangerous situations while driving or parking, a smart power tailgate, digital centre mirror, 12: HUD display and on the PHEV, a switch-type USB-C Module supporting up to 27W fast charging. Rear seats feature USB-C connections on the sides and there are also USB connections for row three as well.

Connectivity

Hyundai’s latest Bluelink Connect is featured. It comes with Voice Recognition, integrated Amazon Music, a BOSE premium sound system and SoundCloud, all of which lifts the infotainment experience inside the Santa Fe. Bluelink is offered on a 10-year subscription and includes connected and Smart EV routing, over the air updates, and battery pre-conditioning.

Usability

from the driver’s seat is first class.

We added our iPhone wirelessly to utilise AppleCarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity is also offered. The large dual-screen tilts towards the driver, with useful short-cut buttons for Home, Map, Search, Media and Set-up placed directly underneath.

The stand-alone digital climate controls are a great addition meaning it’s easy to adjust the temperature while on the move. Under this are buttons to access the parking camera, hill descent control, drive and terrain modes and the auto brake hold.

Safety

Hyundai Smart Sense comes with a vast array of features. Too many to list, but just take it as read that it will include parking and collision-avoidance assist, adaptive cruise control and airbags a plenty.

Driving

We mentioned Chabak at the beginning but we weren’t just sleeping in our Santa Fe. We undertook a three-hour, 90-mile drive across the middle of Wales to Llyn Brianne reservoir, which took in plenty of A & B roads, plus some exceptional views from single tracks, all of which gave us a pretty good idea of what you can expect from the new Santa Fe – and it’s really rather good.

This is a large, heavy car with weights ranging from 1,900kg – 2,090 kg, but despite that it is surprisingly agile and good to drive. Somehow Hyundai has managed to make this hugely practical motor drive like something an awful lot smaller. Light steering and a decent gear box help, and the all-around view

Should we be surprised ? With Hyundai’s N range prowess, perhaps not. The hybrid we drove wasn’t quick off the mark but on some notably narrow, winding and gravel surfaces, up and down some steep inclines, it was never anything other than sure-footed and nimble. It’s also incredibly comfortable. My notoriously fickle lower back survived six hours of undulating roads in the Santa Fe relatively unscathed. Only the overnighter in the rear left me with some stiffness but I did

spacious. Front seat passengers are spoiled for space and rear seat passengers are catered for well too, with USB-C connections and drinks holders in both back rows. And if you want to spend a night in your Santa Fe Chabak-style, with both rear seat rows folded to bed down for the night, then anyone up to two metres tall will find that there’s room enough, as we did.

Pros

Amazingly spacious, sure footed and good to drive for such a large, heavy vehicle ...

“ “

get a solid eight hours sleep in the boot!

On the return leg I was able to overtake some slower traffic quite easily, and I utilised the parking cameras in a supermarket car park. On a dual carriageway near Worcester I enabled Adaptive Cruise Control and this too was simple to access via the steering wheel functions, and works well.

Driving modes

The Santa Fe features three standard driving modes: Normal, Sport or My Drive. There’s not that much between Normal or Sport modes; Sport increases gear ratios so you do get a little bit more power for an overtake, but that’s about it. My Drive allows you to select your own driving levels; Eco would be our default option for most driving scenarios. We didn’t venture off-road so didn’t get to try the Snow, Sand or other off-road driving functions, but they are there.

USP

What is its USP? Well, it’s amazingly

Amazingly practical and competent seven-seater. Surprisingly nimble and agile for its size and weight. A spacious well equipped cabin means that you can spend a night in one, literally!

Offers amazing value for money. All versions comes fitted with the latest safety and tech.

Cons

For company car drivers the PHEV is the one to choose and we are driving it shortly. The exterior of the rear tailgate is a little bit Marmite. The 1.6 engine may be a bit underpowered if your Santa Fe is fully loaded.

CC&V VERDICT

We loved our outdoor adventures in the Santa Fe. On some challenging Welsh roads it performed admirably, but it will do the boring stuff such as dropping the kids at school just as well. Tech and safety are second to none and the build quality is very, very good, too. Perhaps the quirky rear tailgate look won’t appeal to all, and it may also be a little underpowered, but we’d argue that if you want a hugely capable and comfortable seven-seater, the latest Santa Fe smashes far more expensive offerings right out of the park – despite the lack of a ‘premium’ badge

CC&V RATING: N N N N N

Discovery Sport: You’re the one the whole family wants

Looking for a new vehicle to satisfy your taste for adventure... with versatility and terrific hybrid performance rolled in? Then the Land Rover Discovery Sport should be your vehicle of choice...

It’s versatile by design and ready for family adventures, with up to seven seats. A dramatically refined new interior exudes modern luxury, within which clients can benefit from the latest Pivi Pro2 infotainment system on an elegant single curved glass touchscreen, as well as all the practical stowage, seat configurations and wellness technologies that make it a favourite among active, modern families.

But key to its modern appeal is its suite of powertrains, with a range of efficient plug-in electric hybrid and mild hybrid electric power, delivering efficiency and performance. New battery chemistry on the P300e offers an improved real-world range of up to 47km (29 miles) – enough to do 90 per cent of average daily journeys in hushed electric driving mode. Clients can also rest assured that charging their electric-hybrid is quick and straightforward – a 0-80 per cent charge is possible in as little as 30 minutes with DC charging offered as standard.

The electric hybrid combines an Ingenium 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor and 14.9kWh lithium-ion battery, ensuring effortless progress whenever the moment takes you and a WLTP certified electric range of up to 61km (38 miles).

The P250 and P200 Ingenium petrols and D200 and D165 Ingenium diesels complete the line-up. Across both fuel types, advanced mild hybrid electric technology provides smooth operation of the start-stop function for composed urban driving. Using a belt-driven starter motor and battery pack, energy normally lost under deceleration is harvested, feeding back to a 48-volt battery to boost performance and enhance fuel economy.

Dramatically refined interior

Discovery Sport is versatile by design and ready for family adventures, with up to seven seats. A dramatically refined new interior exudes modern luxury, within which clients can benefit from the latest Pivi Pro2 infotainment system on an elegant single curved glass touchscreen, as well as all the practical stowage, seat configurations and wellness technologies that make it a favourite among active, modern families. Luxurious cabin quality comes from finely

crafted, tactile materials. The interior feels bright, spacious and airy with stadium-style seating for optimum visibility in all three rows. The optional panoramic glass roof further adds to the sense of space.

Discovery Sport’s refined interior features a new gear shifter surrounded by a dark anodised aluminium trim finisher and an elegant three-spoke multi-function steering wheel. Available in soft Windsor leather on HSE, or a leather-free textile on the S and SE, it has buttons that can interact with Pivi Pro or activate a virtual voice assistant.

Versatility by design

Discovery Sport is a characterful, modern, compact SUV, with a versatile interior and intuitive technology – perfect for active family life.

Available with up to seven seats, the Discovery Sport’s versatile and spacious interior ensures generous room and comfort for all, with up to 24 possible seat configurations. The second row of seats

slides and reclines with a 40:20:40 split, while a load area of up to 1,794 litres with the rear seats folded down accommodates spontaneous adventures. A powered tailgate makes loading and unloading hassle free.

Cutting edge infotainment

Every Discovery Sport now features a digital instrument cluster and steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles as standard, while the redesigned and simplified centre console boasts an elegant new floating 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen. The latest Pivi Pro2 infotainment set-up features permanently accessible sidebars, which provide shortcuts to key vehicle controls and functions, such as media, volume, climate and navigation. This allows users to access 90 per cent of tasks within two taps from the home screen.

Every Discovery Sport now features a digital instrument cluster and steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles as standard, while the redesigned and simplified centre console boasts an elegant new floating 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen. The latest Pivi Pro2 infotainment set-up features permanently accessible sidebars, which provide shortcuts to key vehicle controls and functions, such as media, volume, climate and navigation. This allows users to access 90 per cent of tasks within two taps from the home screen.

Amazon Alexa11 voice AI and Wireless Apple CarPlayTM 12 is standard.

Jeep dives deep into its DNA with the all-electric Avenger

Andrew Walker

The all-electric Jeep Avenger was our 2024 Small Electric Car of the Year, and it is a taster of where the brand’s going, with more electric Jeeps on the horizon.

It is based on the same platform as the Peugeot E-2008, Citroen e-C4, Vauxhall Mokka Electric and DS 3 E-Tense, all of which we’ve driven before. It’s powered by the latest 54kWh Stellantis battery pack linked to a single electric motor which drives the front wheels. Power output is up to 154bhp with 260Nm, meaning the Avenger will accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.6 seconds and comes with a top speed of 93mph. Range is a claimed 248 miles.

Model range

The range is refreshingly simple, with prices currently starting from £35,700. So you get three trim levels: Longitude, Altitude and Summit. The entry model comes with a 10.25” central touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 7” digital drivers display, LED lights, 16” alloys, rear parking sensors and cruise control. Altitude adds keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, a power tailgate, 17” alloys and a larger 10.25 digital driver’s display. The range topper is the Summit, adding heated seats, a 180 degree reversing camera, 18” alloys and a larger suite of autonomous driving features. If you want

more, option packs can be added to all trims, and for off-roading, all models feature settings for Mud, Sand and Snow plus a hill descent system.

Exterior

Jeep has cleverly designed the Avenger to be squat and boxy and it looks like a Jeep, which is a good thing. It’s compact, measuring just 4,084mm long, 1,776mm wide and being 1,528mm tall.To compare, it’s 216mm shorter than the Peugeot E-2008, so it’s small.

Looks wise it’s a ‘Tonka Toy;’ chunky and square with plenty of black and chrome cladding. The front features Jeep’s seven-slot grille with high corner LED headlights. The rear doors open with hidden handles in the door frame and at the rear, the light clusters have a red X shaped pattern within. A blue ‘e’ to indicate electric is also fitted to the front grille and the rear tailgate, and if you look closely, a small illustration of the designer’s

Looks-wise it’s a ‘Tonka Toy’... chunky and square, definitely a Jeep, which is great “ “

son looking through a telescope at the stars is located in the corner of the windscreen.

Interior

We were driving a Sun yellow Avenger Summit, which with a Volcano black roof is a two-tone option on the range topper. With this colour combo you get a strip of the exterior colour to brighten up the usual black, chrome and grey on the dashboard. Elsewhere, the air vents are slim with the touchscreen and digital drivers display being the standouts. There’s no gear lever, rather four buttons located in the central dash for P, R, N and D/B, the regeneration setting. Behind these sit a large cubby hole with magnetic cover, the electric handbrake and Drive Mode switch. It’s minimalist with a square of four buttons under the touchscreen to control the home screen, functions, hazards and to lock/unlock the Jeep. A line of short cut buttons underneath the touchscreen make things simpler.

Summit includes privacy glass, a six-way manually adjusted driver’s seat/four way passenger seat, six speakers, an 11kW on-board charger, keyless entry and start, intelligent speed assist, traffic sign recognition and wireless smartphone charging.

Quality is good and it certainly feels hard wearing.

Continued on page 34

Continued from page 32

Practicality

Plenty of head room all around, but it’s short length means there’s not much leg room in the rear. Three USBs feature, two up front, one in the rear and a 12v socket. There’s shallow front door pockets, but no rear door pockets, a shelf in the dashboard in front of the passenger, twin cup holders that are adjustable and a rear armrest with two more cup holders.

The boot comes with 355 litres of space; fold down the rear 60:40 split seats and this increases to 1,053 litres. The boot floor has a removable bottom with space underneath for your charging cable.

Charging

The Avenger offers a 100kW maximum charging speed. Charging at home on 7.4kW wallbox, means a full charge in about 7.5 hours. Put another way, the Avenger can be recharged from 0-80% in 30 minutes from a 100kW rapid charger.

Infotainment

At 10.25” the touchscreen is a good size. A tick for the easy Apple CarPlay wireless connection to our i-Phone. Another tick for separate climate controls and separate volume control. The graphics are clear and response times pretty good. The menus are straightforward although some of the icons are quite small.

You need to access the screen to get into the off-road driving modes.

In the cabin

The boxy shape of the Avenger means that all around visibility is good. The six-way driver seat adjustment means you’ll find a comfortable driving position and the seats have chunky bolsters to stop you sliding off them, especially useful if you venture off-road.

Driving

The Avenger has been set-up with firm suspension and coupled with the seats, the ride can get a bit fidgety over poor road surfaces. It’s much better news on the motorway, or over decent tarmac, where it drives smoothly and where outside noise is mainly kept out of the cabin even at 70mph.

The steering is incredibly light and you’ll find yourself driving the Avenger like a dodgem, which is perfect for city centres and the urban crawl, with its pocket size and on board reversing camera also making it easy to park.

We tried out the three main driving modes and while Eco would be our de facto choice to conserve your battery range, Sport does loosen the shackles and you can get a bit of fun from the car. In ‘D’ mode the Avenger tootles along quite happily. When you add the ‘B ‘regeneration to the equation there’s a bit of brake pull as you slow down, but it’s not very strong and definitely doesn’t equate to one pedal driving.

Sadly, we didn’t venture off-road, but we’re sure it will perform admirably in the wet, in snow and on sand having tried the Jeep Renegade in such conditions.

Endearing road manners mean you can’t help but enjoy driving the Avenger... “ “

The good

It’s cute looks make it stand out from everything else in the class. The clutter-free interior is nicely laid out. Coming with the Stellantis 54kWh battery means a decent 250-mile range. It’s electric so just 2% BIK for company car drivers. Handles really well in town.

Cons

Rear legroom is poor. Boot space average. Fidgety ride over poor roads. Not particularly exciting to drive.

Verdict

Being honest, before we drove one, we were struggling to see why you’d choose an Avenger over a Vauxhall Mokka or a Peugeot E-2008. However, after just a few minutes on board we found ourselves smiling. Not because the Avenger is scintillating fun, it isn’t. It’s a combination of its looks, the cabin and its road manners that are endearing, and you can’t help but enjoy driving this small electric off-roader, on road. It’s definitely not a car to be in when you’re in rush, the latest Peugeot E-308 will scratch that itch. It’s more a car to drive in town and elsewhere leisurely. We just wish we’d had chance to try it off-road. Maybe next time.

CC&V VERDICT

A surprisingly civilised ride from a company known more for its off-road tough charm. It is a head-turner, and those good manners makes it a great ride

CC&V RATING: N N N N

My van, my way

Volkswagen has launched its new Transporter... and if you ask nicely, Jason might let you have a test drive...

Generation 7 has arrived: the new Transporter and Caravelle offer more space, more payload, increased maximum trailer weight, and a professional cockpit landscape

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles unveiled the completely redesigned Transporter for its world premiere at the IAA Transportation 2024 trade fair in September.

Each feature on the new van has been taken to a new level: the new Transporter launches with more space, increased payload, increased maximum trailer weight and greater economic efficiency. However, it follows the unmistakable style of its six predecessors with its clear and striking exterior desgn.

In addition, state-of-the-art assist systems ensure greater safety, while well thought out cockpit and control elements make everyday work easier.

The same applies to the Caravelle presented at the same time – the product line’s nine-seater Volkswagen bus. For the first time in the history of the Transporter and Caravelle, these multi-function vehicles will also be available with a plug-in hybrid drive and electric drives as an alternative to the range of turbocharged diesel engines. The new vans’ clear design is refreshingly new and yet clearly follows the style of their iconic predecessors.

The right vehicle for every customer:

With the debut of the next-generation Transporter, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is implementing its strategy of

offering “the right Bulli for every customer” from now on. When the first Transporter was presented to the press in 1949, nobody had imagined that this T1, the driving force behind the German economic miracle at the time, would become such a successful model family. Today the Bulli range consists of the new Transporter, the Multivan and the ID. Buzz. The Transporter product line comprises pure commercial vehicles and the Caravelle series. The Multivan is the family’s recreational and business van and has also just launched as a redesigned California camper van. The ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo commercial vehicle version are the first electric mobility icons. Transporter, Multivan and ID. Buzz – the 7thgeneration Bullis – currently form the widest range of models in their class on the market.

Panel van, crewbus, platform and Caravelle: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers the new Transporter as a panel van (focused on goods transport), a panel van ‘Plus’ (load compartment, seats in the second row, various partitions), crewbus (focused on passenger transport) and as a double cab with platform body and long wheelbase. The crewbus and panel van versions are optionally available with a high roof and an extended wheelbase.

Ergonomic high-tech workplace in the redesigned cockpit, Volkswagen has combined the digital world of displays and controls with robust hardkeys, ensuring that the vehicle’s control centre is easy and safe for professionals to use in any situation. This also includes the integration of various USB

and 12V sockets as well as the option to add one or, in the case of the plug-in hybrid and electric models, up to three 230V sockets.

1.33 tonnes of payload:

The stowage volume in the panel-van Transporter with a normal wheelbase and roof has increased by more than 10% to 5.8m3. With a long wheelbase and high roof, the panel van’s stowage volume increases to 9.0m3. The maximum payload of up to 1.33 tonnes (an extra 0.13T) corresponds to the higher load volume. Volkswagen has also increased the maximum trailer weight by 0.3T, which now reaches up to 2.8T (braked, with 12% gradient).

Diesel, hybrid and electric drive

Seven efficient drive versions will be available upon market launch. For the first time, this range includes three turbocharged diesel engines (TDI), a plug-in hybrid drive (eHybrid) and three electric drives (e-Transporter and e-Caravelle). The TDI engines deliver 81 kW (110 PS), 110 kW (150 PS) and 125 kW (170 PS). The 125 kW TDI is always combined with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, which is optionally available for the 110 kW TDI as an alternative to the 6-speed manual gearbox. The TDI models from 110 kW can be ordered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive. A system power of 171 kW (232 PS) characterises the plug-in hybrid drive combined with an automatic gearbox (eHybrid). The e-Transporter and e-Caravelle launch with 100 kW (136 PS), 160 kW (218 PS) and 210 kW (286 PS). The capacity of their battery is 64 kWh (net).

Proace Max means Toyota has all the bases covered

CC&V recently spent a a couple of days with Toyota in The Hague driving the company’s updated Professional range, including the new Proace Max. Toyota is slowly increasing its commercial presence in the UK, and with this new large van now has a commercial vehicle in every sector. We sat down with Gareth Matthews, head of LCV at Toyota to find out more about the brand’s plans for its Professional range as we all head into an electric world.

CC&V: Toyota perhaps isn’t the first name that springs to mind when SMEs are thinking of their new commercial vehicle. What does Toyota Professional offer that makes you stand out from the competition?

Gareth Matthews: SMEs have traditionally always been a strong core market for us, and our market research shows that with the growth of our product range we are very much raising our visibility in this area. What makes us stand out from the competition is having the widest range of LCVs in the UK, with a product in every major segment. Our multipath approach towards future powertrain technology means we continue with traditional ICE for those that still need it but we also have a full range of EV vans, a hybrid Corolla Commercial and a mild hybrid Hilux on the way. Other features that make us stand out – and again this has huge appeal to SMEs – is our 10-year warranty, five-year roadside assistance and Toyota Professional commitment. This not only includes these but also courtesy vehicles and express servicing. Finally, we add into the mix an established UK retailer network with a strong track record in customer service.

CC&V: You’ve just added a large van to the range, the Proace Max. What were your reasons for introducing this model to the UK, and what kind of sales are you expecting it to achieve?

GM: As mentioned above, the addition of Proace Max strengthens our LCV range and means we can compete in another segment of the UK’s LCV market. It also supports our field fleet teams as we can fulfil more customer LCV requirements as a single brand. Finally, it also supports our ambitions to increase LCV market share in the UK and across Europe.

CC&V: The Hilux pick-up doesn’t need an introduction, but can you tell us more about the new 48v hybrid model, and to whom do you think it will appeal?

GM: The introduction of the 48v Hilux reinforces our multipath commitment

all-new

The addition of the Proace Max means we can compete in another part of the UK LCV sector...

“ “

towards future powertrain technology by providing yet another choice for LCV customers.

It will appeal to all current Hilux customers as it represents another solution to making our current ICE technology more efficient as it delivers improved performance and smoother driving and does not compromise on towing or payload capacity.

It will also feature the very latest Toyota Safety Sense to provide enhanced protection for the occupants and other road users.

CC&V: 2035 might seem a long way off, but at the moment it’s the date at which ICE vehicle sales will end in the UK. How are your electric vans performing currently and does Toyota have a plan to get your existing customers to switch to electric?

GM: We are adopting a more consultative approach with our customers and working with them to analyse their usage pattern and understand where potential EV opportunities might exist in their current fleet of vehicles. We acknowledge that not every vehicle may be suitable to switch to EV just yet, so we are supporting our customers in a gradual transition towards EV adoption that meets with their business needs.

CC&V: Finally, your dealer partners are transitioning nicely into Professional dealerships. Have they been receptive to the commercial re-branding, and are they achieving increase sales because of it?

GM: The network has been very receptive towards the introduction and growth of the Toyota Professional brand. The dealers were quick to see that with the product we planned to launch and the increasing of our LCV range, there were great opportunities available. LCV Sales increased over 50 per cent in 2023 vs 2022, with over 19,000 units sold, and we have further potential with the introduction of these new models to build share and grow awareness over the coming months.

The

Proace Max in electric format

BEV options on new Proace Max highlights Toyota’s commitment to electrification

The all-new Proace Max is Toyota’s first heavy-duty van, and its introduction completes a comprehensive revision of the Toyota Professional line-up, meaning it now has a competitive model in all the principal market segments.

Moreover, like its Proace and Proace City counterparts, Proace Max offers the option of battery electric power as well as diesel.

The BEV option demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to electrification of its light commercial vehicle range and its multi-path technology strategy for progressing towards carbon neutrality.

The Proace Max produces 200kW (268bhp/270 DIN hp) and 410Nm or torque and has an official (WLTP) standard driving range of up to 260 miles. This allows the vehicle to be used for urban daily delivery schedules potentially without the need for overnight changing.

The driver can select from three modes to adjust performance to optimise driving range or power. Further energy efficiency is provided by a regenerative braking system.

The 110kWh lithium-ion battery can be

recharged to 80 per cent in 55 minutes with a 150kW fast-charging system. All versions are equipped with an on-board 11kWh AC onboard charger for business or home charging.

The diesel engine option is a 2.2-litre 140 unit producing a maximum 138bhp (103kW/140 DIN hp). Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission can be specified, giving maximum torque of 350Nm and 280Nm respectively.

Gross vehicle weight for all diesel versions is 3.5 tonnes. The GVW for the electric models is 4.25 tonnes. These qualify for Government grant support towards the purchase cost.

At launch there is a single equipment grade, Icon, offering a generous array of features for practicality, safety, comfort and connectivity. Key items include a multimedia system with 10-inch touchscreen and navigation and a digital instrument cluster. Automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights with automatic high beam, a reversing camera and rear parking sensors are also provided.

Owners can adapt their vehicle to suit their specific business needs with a dedicated range of accessories, including racking and shelving systems, high-security locks and a roof platform with rear ladder.

Prices start from £43,630.

Western Maxus: Driving the future of commercial vehicles in Scotland

At Western Maxus we provide innovative vehicle solutions for businesses, sole traders, and individuals across Scotland.

As part of the esteemed Eastern Western Motor Group, we offer a diverse range of Maxus vehicles tailored to meet the needs of modern enterprises and independent professionals.

Whether you’re an SME or seeking a versatile vehicle for personal use, Western Maxus delivers.

Maxus: Innovation at its core

Maxus is a forward-thinking brand committed to sustainable transport.

Renowned for pioneering electric commercial vehicles, it stands at the forefront of mobility, offering efficient and environmentally friendly options. Its strong reputation for durability and performance makes it a preferred choice for businesses and individuals looking to future-proof their fleets.

Maxus vehicles are perfect for those aiming to reduce their environmental impact, providing ideal solutions for transitioning to greener transport. The electric models combine eco-friendly operation with robust functionality, making them suitable for various applications.

A diverse range of vehicles

Western Maxus boasts an impressive selection of commercial vehicles suitable for both professional and personal use including:

eDELIVER 3: A compact, fully electric van designed for urban deliveries, offering low operating costs and zero emissions.

n From £34,000 (ex VAT)

n Range (WLTP) 213 miles

n 945KG Max payload

n 5,037MM Max length

eDELIVER 9: This full-sized electric van combines substantial space with a long range, ideal for businesses needing to

transport larger cargo.

n From £63,000 (ex VAT)

n Range (WLTP) 219miles

n 1,290KG Max payload

n 6,680MM Max length

DELIVER 9: The conventional dieselpowered DELIVER 9 offers reliability and longevity for heavy-duty use and longdistance travel.

n From £33,843 (ex VAT)

n 80L Full tank capacity

n 1,535KG Max payload

n 6,680mm Max length

All Maxus vehicles come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, prioritising safety and ease of operation for all users.

Maxus support across Scotland

Our commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the sale. Western Maxus provides comprehensive support, including financing, aftercare, and servicing. With dealerships throughout Scotland, we are always nearby to assist with your needs:

Bellshill: Serving businesses and individuals in the central belt.

Broxburn: Conveniently located for users in

Edinburgh & West Lothian.

Govan: Providing access to the Maxus range in the west.

Dundee: Ensuring robust support for the east of Scotland.

Each dealership is staffed with trained Maxus experts, ready to provide top-tier advice and service tailored to your specific requirements.

Dedicated aftercare and finance options

Western Maxus goes beyond providing vehicles; we offer comprehensive aftersales care, with skilled technicians specifically trained in Maxus vehicles. Our service centres ensure your fleet or personal vehicle remains operational and efficient, minimising downtime.

We also provide flexible finance options tailored to commercial and individual customers, including leasing, contract hire, and hire purchase. Our finance specialists work closely with customers to find the best solutions that meet their operational and financial needs.

Why choose Western Maxus?

Choosing Western Maxus aligns you with a brand prioritising the future of transport. Our electric vehicles help businesses and individuals reduce emissions, while our conventional options offer reliability for all users. We are dedicated to exceptional service, from vehicle selection through to aftercare.

As part of Eastern Western Motor Group, operating since 1927, Western Maxus benefits from a rich heritage of industry expertise and customer care. We understand the fast-paced environment in which businesses operate and are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Visit one of our dealerships today (see right) to discover how Western Maxus can help drive your transport towards a more sustainable, efficient future.

Versatility and range are the key as eDeliver 7 maintains momentum

Andrew Walker checks out the Maxus eDELIVER 7, the company’s mid-size electric van which sits between siblings the eDELIVER5 and eDELIVER 9.

eDeliver 7 is available in three sizes: L1H1, L2H1 and L2H2, and comes with two battery choices, 77kWh or 88kWh. L1H1 and L2H1 are available with both batteries, while the largest version L2H2 is only offered with the 88kWh battery.

As with all electric vans the L1H1 / 77Kh battery combination offers the largest payload of 1,200kg. The L1H1 fitted with the 88kWh battery comes with a payload of 1,125kg. The larger L2H1 77kWh battery offers a 1,135kg payload, the 88kWh version 1,055kg and the L2H2 with the 88kWh battery a 1,025kg payload. All versions will tow up to 750kg.

Volume

L1H1 offers a cargo volume of 5.9m3 and a length of 2,547mm. The side sliding door is 900mm wide. L2H1 has a volume of 6.7m3, is 2,913mm long, while the L2H2 offers up a carrying capacity of 8.7m3, with a length of 2,913mm.

All versions feature a steel bulkhead, rear wing doors with 90°/180° opening and six tie-down loops. Options include a dual sliding door and a power kerbside side-step which is available in conjunction with alloy wheels. Included too are a 6m power charging cable and a rear trailer hitch interface.

Power and performance

Maximum power with both batteries is 150kW and maximum torque is 330Nm. Top speed is limited to 55mph if you drive in ECO mode, or 75mph in Normal or Power mode. It will take 10.8 seconds to go from 0-62mph.

Charging and range

At home on an 11Kw AC charger you’ll be able to charge your eDELIVER 7 77kWh battery from 5-100% in eight hours. Away from home, a 90kW DC charger takes just 43 minutes to go from 20% to 80% full. Charging is a little slower with the 88kWh battery, so 9.3 hours from 5-100% charge on a 7kWh home charger, (https://www.rolecserv. com/) home-charging and 43 minutes from 20-80% using a 90kW DC charger. WLTP combined range with the 77kWh battery is 200 miles, while the 88kWh battery increases the range to 230 miles.

Technology and comfort

All variants of the eDELIVER 7 feature a

12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, MP5, DAB, Bluetooth, a single USB input, a 12v socket and four speakers. All specs also offer a heated steering wheel, manual air-con, one touch start, automatic LED headlights, a heated windscreen and front and rear fog lights

Interior

The eDELIVER 7 dash and controls can best be described as sparse and de-cluttered. In front of the driver is a clear and concise digital driver’s display with battery charge, speed and vehicle range. Steering wheel controls allow you to adjust the infotainment, receive a hands-free phone call and set the cruise control. Apple CarPlay is offered via the single USB, useful for our iPhone and Apple Maps.

The interior itself features some decent plastic finishes across the dash and doors and the seat upholstery feels hard wearing. The floor is protected by a black, shiny, vinyl wipe clean carpet.

On the road

The first thing to say is that driving the eDELIVER 7 is a doddle. It feels like piloting a large SUV. Climb aboard, push the start button, select Drive and away you go.

We began in Eco mode which limits your top speed to 55mph but with two of us on board it felt plenty powerful enough. On motorways use Normal and the cabin is eerily quiet as you make smooth progress. All

around visibility is good with the added bonus of front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and a 360° camera.

Three levels of regeneration are available. High adds a bit more accelerator weight and is ideal for stop-start driving. Low gives the van a little more oomph, useful for the motorway, with Standard somewhere in between.

As far as comfort goes, the seats are nicely adjustable, all of the controls fall easily to hand and the bonus of a heated steering wheel and heated seats mean you can utilise both to keep warm and will save draining battery power via the climate controls. The only negative we could find is that the steering wheel does not adjust for reach, only up and down.

Pros

Comfortable and spacious interior with a neat dash. Safety systems excellent. Two batteries, heights and lengths, and a onetonne payload give decent choice. A 200 or 230-mile driving range is ultra competitive.

Cons

No chassis version yet. Even the entry level version isn’t cheap.

CC&V VERDICT

A welcome addition to the EV van sector. Great quality and range, and the options on length, height and battery make it very versatile.

CC&V RATING: N N N N

Introducing the Maxus eDELIVER 5 at Sandicliffe

Introducing the SAIC Maxus eDeliver 5, the ultimate solution for all your commercial electric vehicle needs. The MAXUS eDELIVER 5 is a cutting-edge electric electric Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) designed to meet the needs of modern delivery businesses. With its zero-emission powertrain, it offers a range of up to 304 miles on a 64kWh battery and delivers top speeds of 75mph. It also boasts a generous payload capacity of up to 1,200kg, making it a versatile option for logistics. This vehicle is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems like lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and remote remote connectivity features, enhancing safety and efficiency.

The spacious cargo area, available in different body lengths, makes the eDELIVER 5 adaptable for various business needs Additionally, its ecofriendly design ensures a significant reduction in running costs and environmental impact, perfect for companies looking to embrace sustainability This electric van provides rapid charging capabilities and comes with smart features that integrate seamlessly with fleet manage management systems. Its stylish design, coupled with high performance and reliability, positions it as an excellent option for businesses looking to modernise their fleet with electric vehicles.

Location & Navigation

This feature lets you plan your navigation itinerary and send it to your vehicle in advance. You can also use “Find My Car” to remind you where you parked.

Voice command

Just say, ‘Hi Maxus’ to get instant, hands free control of infotainment functions including destination input, phone calls and music selection

Remote Access

Control all functions remotely from your phone, including the option to preheat or pre-cool the cabin, and to pre-heat the seats

Sytner Mercedes-Benz has the fleet answers you’re looking for

Many businesses are asking themselves whether the time is right for their commercial fleet to switch to electric. Here, Sytner Mercedes-Benz looks at some of the options available to you

If you are thinking about changing your van in the next six months or so, then you’re probably considering the question “should I go electric?”. If you are, then what are the key factors that should be considered?

Daily use and range needs

The first thing to say is that currently, electric isn’t the answer for everyone, but there are a number of van operators for whom electric could be a positive solution. In our experience the only way to know for sure is to explore the possibility with our experienced team, including a real-time evaluation of our electric models. There are a number of key factors to assess, including your typical daily use of the vehicle, the payload requirements, the accessibility of work/home charging and, if you happen to operate in one of the cities operating a chargeable Clean Air Zone, then this could be an important factor if you wish to have a future-proofed solution.

Digital Extras and Mercedes-Benz App.

There are also a number of other benefits to be had with running a Mercedes-Benz electric van in conjunction with the Digital Extras and the Mercedes-Benz App. One of our favourite features is Pre-Climate Control; this can warm or cool your cabin to your desired temperature before you even step into the vehicle, so you will always be comfortable right from the outset. This is particularly useful if you are plugged in to your charger, as it does not diminish your available range when you set off.

Digital Extras has many other benefits and can manage all of your fleet in one place. The Mercedes-Benz App is the right option for those with a fleet size of five or under, however, with a Mercedes-Benz Account, including a company profile account and the Mercedes-Benz Website, fleet managers can manage their fleet of up to 1,000 vehicles, assigning drivers plus a lot more features we would be happy to discuss.

Another useful tool is the Mercedes-Benz Eco Coach, an app that can help your drivers improve their driving styles to maximise the vehicle’s efficiency, and thus protect the environment. The Eco Coach is based on an individual driving profile and thus provides useful tips and recommendations, which in turn lead to a longer battery life.

Government grants and incentives

If EVs are the correct route for your business and your drivers, take advantage of government grants and incentives available to support EV adoption and charging infrastructure, and talk to our Corporate Account Managers on how we can support you. Mercedes-Benz is committed to sustainability, and this is reflected in its van offerings. Our EV models provide businesses with the opportunity to embrace greener alternatives without compromising on performance or functionality.

Support and service from Sytner Mercedes-Benz London Corporate Sales.

Sytner Mercedes-Benz London Corporate Sales is here to support businesses seeking luxury, reliability and exceptional service. We are dedicated to providing an elevated experience that aligns with modern business needs.

Change needs to be well planned, and our Corporate Account Managers, Tracey Stewart and Cheryl Scott have the knowledge and experience gained through many years of partnership with numerous companies and customers to provide you with competent advice and the service you need to keep your fleet running efficiently in the long term. Customer service is at the heart of the Sytner Mercedes-Benz London Corporate Sales experience.

Evaluation and test drives.

If you would like to evaluate our products with a test drive, including extended test drives, then please contact Tracey or Cheryl who will discuss your requirements and check availability and eligibility.

To complete the portfolio of services on offer, we can also support you and your business with any Mercedes-Benz passenger car or smart requirements.

Contact us.

There are many reasons to consider Mercedes-Benz Light Commercial Vehicles for your fleet, whether that be EVs, ICE or a combination of both, plus the added value brought to you by Sytner Mercedes-Benz London Corporate Sales.

To find out more about how our dedicated LCV Corporate Account Managers and the rest of the Sytner Mercedes-Benz London Corporate Sales team can assist both you and your business with your LCV requirements, or for more on Mercedes-Benz EVs, email us at mbvans@sytner.co.uk or scan the QR code right.

eVito upgrade has got the range issue sorted

Mercedes has massively improved the battery range of its eVito, making it far more attractive in what is becoming a fast growing sector. CC&V got to grips with one recently and here’s how we got on.

The electric eVito looks and feels just the same as a diesel Vito, except that it’s powered by an 114bhp 85kW electric motor offering 300Nm of torque. It has a 66kWh battery with a WLTP range of 162 miles up from the 93 miles of its predecessor.

AC charging to 11kW and DC to 80kW are both standard on eVito. As ever, plug-in at home or at work for cheaper rates; we use Rolec chargers, https://www.rolecserv. com/ev-charging

Model range and sizes

We were testing the PREMIUM specced eVito which cost from £46,900, with a cheaper PROGESSIVE also offered. The eVito is offered in two lengths, L2 or L3. As far as storage goes, the L2 model offers 6.0 m3 cargo volume, 2,451 kg kerb weight, 3,200 kg GVW, with a payload of 824 kg. The L3 offers 6.6 m3 cargo volume, 2,302 kg kerb weight, 3,200 kg GVW and a payload of 898 kg.

Specs and safety

eVito PROGRESSIVE offers colour-coded

bumpers, full wheel covers, front fog lights, Headlight Assist, a 75mph speed limiter, Audio 30, lumbar support and electrically foldable mirrors. PREMIUM includes Hyacinth red metallic paint PARKTRONIC, reversing camera, hate insulting glass, TEMPMATIC semi auto air-con and cruise control.

Exterior

Looks like a standard Vito; only the discreet eVito and eLECTRIC badging says there is anything about it.

Interior

You get the updated Vito interior, which includes two USBs and a heated front driver seat. There’s a three-seat configuration up front, as well as some storage on top of the dash, a decent glove box and two handy deep door pockets, but nowhere to fit a large bottle or a drinks container.

In the centre of the dash and higher up than in some vans are the Audio 30 infotainment system and heating controls. The infotainment screen is slightly awkward to reach for the driver, as are the USB inputs. For a left-hand driven Vito this location would make perfect sense – but not in the UK. The quality is top-notch but it’s not as practical a cab as some competitors.

Loadspace

The rear load space is easily accessed as the L2 Vito we drove comes with left and right hand slide-opening side doors and twin rear doors that open 180 degrees.

Driving

Easy to drive and very relaxing on the motorway. The gear lever offers Neutral, Reverse or Drive options and even with the battery weight underneath the floor, the eVito handles pretty well.

There are several levels of regenerative braking, which can be adjusted using the paddles on either side of the steering wheel. This enables you in traffic or in town, to utilise D-, the strongest regenerative level, which is also the most noticeable. You can decrease the strength of regeneration by pulling on the right-hand paddle, moving through the options of D, then D+ and, as we found for motorway driving, the very useful D++.

Real world range

The eVito was delivered with a full charge and a 157-mile range. A motorway trip of 30 miles decreased the range from 157 miles to 118. An hour charging brought this back up 126 miles for the return leg. Back home 30 miles later and the range was 98 miles.

We then repeated the identical journey the following day and we concluded that if driven unladen with just a driver, at mostly motorway speeds, then the eVito offers a 140 -mile range. At lower speeds of up to 50mph the range increased to 157 miles, as you can really take advantage of the regenerative braking to keep that battery topped up. It means the eVito range is a match for Stellantis rivals

Pros

Much improved battery range now gives the eVito a competitive range. The cabin is hewn from granite, top quality and very comfortable. The overall build quality puts the competition to shame.

Cons

The infotainment system isn’t as good as you’ll find on some other vans. Similarly, neither is the payload.

CC&V VERDICT

Improved range is a huge plus-point. Real-world driving of 150-160 miles might not sound enough but daily mileage, plus access to charging points, will probably show that the eVito is right on the money. Nothing to fear from an electric Vito.

CC&V RATING: N N N N

Crawfords Automotive celebrates a decade of success as the UK’s largest Isuzu dealer group

In 2024, Crawfords Automotive proudly celebrates its 10th year as an Isuzu dealer, marking a decade of growth, achievement, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As the UK’s largest Isuzu dealer group, Crawfords operates three thriving sites across Essex, Kent, and West Sussex, solidifying its position as a trusted leader in the automotive industry.

Over the years, Crawfords Automotive has consistently delivered premium products and services, establishing itself as a beacon of reliability and customer satisfaction. The company’s dedication to excellence is reflected not only in its extensive range of Isuzu vehicles but also in its award-winning service and customer-centric approach.

2023 was a milestone year for Crawfords Automotive, as the company earned multiple accolades that highlight its outstanding performance. Notably, Crawfords was awarded the prestigious Marketing/Social Media Dealer of the Year title, recognising the company’s innovative and impactful digital strategies that have successfully connected with customers across various platforms.

Additionally, the Crawfords Automotive Charing branch in Kent secured the Regional Accessories Dealer of the Year award, a testament to the team’s expertise in providing

a diverse array of high-quality accessories that enhance the Isuzu ownership experience. These awards reflect the hard work and dedication of Crawfords’ skilled team, which includes manufacturer-trained technicians, knowledgeable sales specialists, and exceptional aftersales professionals.

The company’s success in 2023 didn’t stop with just winning awards. Crawfords also achieved remarkable recognition as the runner-up in two categories: Dealer Event of the Year and the Dealership Community Awards. These accolades further underscore Crawfords’ all-around excellence, showcasing its ability to engage with both customers and the wider community effectively. Its events and community initiatives have fostered

strong relationships, reinforcing the Crawfords name as synonymous with trust and quality.

Crawfords Automotive’s achievements are not limited to awards alone. It recorded the highest UK sales of the new Isuzu D-Max in 2023, with over 200 vehicles sold by year-end. This highlights the growing demand for Isuzu’s rugged and reliable vehicles, as well as Crawfords’ ability to meet customer needs with precision and professionalism.

“Celebrating our 10th year as an Isuzu dealer is a tremendous milestone for Crawfords Automotive,” said Bob Russell, Business Manager, Crawfords Automotive. “Our success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, as well as the trust and loyalty of our customers.”

There’s nothing utilitarian about the entry level D-Max Utility

We’ve driven the Isuzu D-Max – our Pick Up of the Year – on numerous occasions, but never the entry Utility model. We put this right recently when we had the pleasure of a week in the Utility automatic.

The D-Max comes in three ranges: Business, All-Purpose and Adventure. There are four trim levels: Utility, DL20, DL40 and V-Cross. Add to this the steroid-injected Arctic Trucks AT35. All are powered by the 1.9 litre 162bhp diesel engine with 360Nm of torque. It can get from 0-62mph in 12.7 seconds, though this rises to 13 seconds on the automatic gearbox.

Inside

The D-Max cabin is more car-like than ever, even on Utility. The seats are hard wearing and comfortable thanks to the six-way adjustable driver’s seat. There’s also a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, DAB radio, CD player – remember them? –Bluetooth, USB port, two speakers and a 4.2” multi-information display. The floor is vinyl covered, with under-seat storage, flat folding rear seats, height adjustable head rests and a front cup holder. Very impressive.

Comfort and convenience

Utility is impressive here too, with remote central locking, electric windows, map lights, a sunglass holder and overhead console, manual air-con and a 12v power outlet. There’s also a gear shift indicator plus the aforementioned steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls and the 4.2” multi information display.

Outside

Utility may be an entry model but it’s very well equipped. It features halogen headlights and daytime running lights, high beam assist, rear fog lights, auto rain sensing wipers, a heated rear screen, a tailgate damper, rear bumper step and 18” Steel Wheels.

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Economy and emissions

The Uility auto comes with a fuel economy of 30.7 mpg and emissions of 241g/km respectively. And, thanks to Euro 6D emission standard, the D-Max is fitted with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to reduce harmful Nitrogen Dioxide levels.

Payload

Every version has a payload rating of at least 1,070kg, which is important for commercial vehicle tax purpose.There’s also a 3.5 tonnes towing capacity. Another interesting point is that every variant of the all-new Isuzu D-Max weighs under 2,040kg, meaing even the extended and double cabs are subject to normal passenger car speed limits.

Can it handle the tough stuff?

The D-Max is perfect for anyone who needs to use their truck off road. The 4WD engages faster than on the previous D-Max and the locking diff, low-range gearing and electronic aids work perfectly. There is also traction control, trailer sway control, a brake assist system, hill start assist and hill descent control.

On the road

We’re pleased to report that the Utility drives just as well as its more premium

siblings. Despite its size the D-Max Utility is actually quite nimble, with the electronic steering making it easy to manoeuvre. It handles the road more like a large SUV than the previous D-Max, showcasing how much more refined this latest version is over what came before. It’s always a little slow from the off, well worth noting to give yourself a bit more time when you pull out of a junction. It is an excellent motorway companion. When driving at 70mph the cabin is quiet and the ride is comfortable, even for those in the back. True, on tight roundabouts and in small parking spots you’ll need to flex your arms a bit more to control the large wheels, and a reversing aid would help when reversing, but apart from that it is very civilised. There’s noticeably less body-roll and my rear seat passengers felt it was a lot less bouncy unladen than before.

Kind of off-road

A couple of empty farms located close to where we are based allowed us to venture ‘slightly’ off-road alongside the River Bollin. The D-Max has a wading depth of 800mm, so the 500mm of flooded road we drove through was easy to get through. A drive along a gravel track and across a grass field were also dealt with comfortably in 4WD.

Suffice to say that it will tackle a lot tougher terrain than that offered in Bowdon Vale and Dunham Massey!

Pros

When other manufacturers shied away from the pick-up sector, Isuzu stuck to its guns and kept offering a range of single, extended and double cab models and conversions. Safety features are impressive. We thought that the second highest specced model, the DL40, was incredibly good value for money, but the Utility in auto form is even better!

Negatives?

The smaller 1.9 diesel unit is fine but it’s lack of out-and-out pull could be an issue with a heavy load up a very steep hill. The cab has some cheap plastics, but it’s solid. And while Utility is top-notch for safety and adaptive cruise control, the Pioneer infotainment is a little old hat. Could do with reversing aids.

CC&V VERDICT

Our first drive in the entry-level Utility had us thinking it was an absolute steal. Fantastic safety, pretty decent tech and does most of what a pick-up is supposed to do for just over £30,000. I suppose some would want an integrated smart phone and reversing aids, but if that’s the case spec up to a higher range D-Max.

CC&V RATING: N N N N N

D-Max, ready for the (off) road. Inset, Filip Czajkowski

Off-road fun with Isuzu

During summer Company Car & Van was lucky enough to be invited to an off-road day by Isuzu UK. It gave us the chance to put our Pick-Up of the Year through its paces at Parkwood Outdoors near Bradford.

Three woodland routes were set up including the toughest through deep water which we undertook in the Isuzu ultimate off-roader, the ‘Mudmaster,’

We also had an opportunity to drive on-road in the D-Max Steel Edition which is still available at some Isuzu retailers as we go to print.

Our thanks to Filip Czajkowski and the Isuzu events team for a fantastic day, where the sun shone and the D-Max unsurprisingly handled itself with aplomb.