TEST II

Since first laying eyes over two years ago on the new E-Ducato, the new all-electric version of one of Europe’s best selling large vans, much has happened at the model’s owners Fiat Professional. Notably, the introduction of the emission-free panel van, chassis platform and passenger carrier with a choice of power/range options coincided with its parent company’s tie-up with Groupe PSA, but also occurred when the global pandemic was at its peak early this year.

That meant delays in delivering to markets across Europe were inevitable, but the good news is that E-Ducato is now here. Presented at the recent ITT Hub event in Farnborough, Fleet Transport was among the very first to get to drive the new electric van.To look at, E-Ducato’s size and shape remains as normal, similar to the standard diesel version. Best in class payload and load volume are offered, up to 1,950 kg and from 10m3 to 17m3, making it the perfect tool for businesses in both urban and suburban environments.

2021 is a significant year for Fiat Professional as it marks the 40th year of the Ducato. First launched in 1981 and now in its third generation, more than 2.6 million Ducatos have been produced – all at Fiat Professional’s state-of-the-art Sevel Atessa plant in South-East Italy.

New E-Ducato comes at a time that more than one third of 2,000 of van owners surveyed in the UK stated that they are considering the switch to electric, while 90% of van drivers consider that it is vital to be as environmentally friendly as possible. E-Ducato’s development was totally independent from the business supply arrangement with Groupe PSA, whereby the Sevel plant manufactures the Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Relay/Jumpy & Opel/Vauxhall Movano.

E-Ducato provides a choice between two battery sizes - 47kWh or 79kWh. The 47kWh battery, alongside a 90kW motor, provides a range of up to 200 KM (WLTP City), a maximum power of 90kW (equivalent to 122hp) and maximum torque of 280Nm at 12,000rpm. E-Ducato is capable of a top speed of 100 km/h. Its impressive charging time of zero to fully charged takes just 2 hours and 25 minutes, enabling businesses to recharge and get back on the road in the quickest time possible. The 47kWh battery is available with AC or DC charging capability.

The 79kWh battery is fused to the same 90kW motor and receives the same power and torque outputs as the 47kWh battery, however it provides a longer range of up to 370 km (WLTP City). E-Ducato with the 79kWh battery takes just 4 hours to charge from 0-100% and is also available with AC or DC charging capability.

Once in neutral and with foot on brake and handbrake up, a double twist of the key brings the motor to life and illuminates the dash area. Two main screens either side of the steering wheel provide all the information, entertainment and connectivity needed. The auxiliary touch screen keeps the driver informed of the power flow, driving history, charging schedules and charge setting with real time information on the range distance and percentage of battery power.

Engaged from the left-side of the gearstick, the E-Ducato has three driving mode options. Normal gives optimal balance between performance and economy, Eco provides for an increase in the available range by managing acceleration response in order to reduce energy consumption and deactivation of air conditioning. There is also the Power mode for facing full-load missions. A fourth, ‘Turtle mode’, is activated when battery power reaches near to 0% level. The vehicle alerts the user and activates a specific reduced driving mode to extend the remaining range.

On the test run, there were no

surprises. Acceleration is good, which was expected. As with all EVs (Electric Vehicles), the drive is smooth and silent. Range is maximised through its regenerative braking system, with the van storing energy as it is driven downhill. This ensures range isn’t wasted and is stored for when needed most.

For Ireland and the UK markets, E-Ducato is available in two trim levels, standard and eTecnico, with the goods van coming in three different heights, lengths and wheelbase sizes.

Tested: First Drive - New Fiat Professional E-Ducato

SPEC CHECk

Make/Model: Fiat Professional E-Ducato Type/Trim: Panel Van 35 LH2 eTechnico Max Power: 122 bhp Max Torque: 280Nm Motor/Battery pack: 90 kW/79 kWh Top Speed: 100 kp/h Battery Range: 370 kms (5 module battery pack) Recharge: 80% capacity in 30 minutes (50 kW DC Rapid Charger) Nominal Payload: 765 kgs

DImENSIONS:

Wheelbase; 4035 mm Overall Length; 5998 mm Overall Height; 2569 mm Load Space Volume; 13m3 Features: 7” Touch screen with connectivity, Automatic Climate Control, Techno dash board display Aftersales: 5 years warranty, Roadside Assist/Servicing. Battery Pack; 10 years/220,000kms