Vauxhall /Vivaro-e – perfect timing on electric vans

Vauxhall has made a bold play in the electric van market, launching the Vivaro-e in 2020 followed by the Movano-e and Combo-e this summer, giving it a full battery-electric option across its light commercial range.

Its timing has been impeccable, as major corporates clamour to secure volume to meet their ambitious transition plans, none more so than British Gas whose initial order for 1,000 soaked up Vauxhall’s initial supply. It has since ordered an additional 2,000.

With range of up to 205 miles from the larger 75kWh battery (143 miles from the 50kWh), the Vivaro-e has caught the imagination in the medium panel van sector, helping to push range sales up by almost 50% year-to-August.

“We’re the first mainstream manufacturer to have a full EV range,” says Brad Miller, brand manager, commercial vehicles. “And all three models are very competitive on wholelife costs.”

Fleet News: We’ve seen some big fleet orders placed for the Vivaro-e; what’s driving take-up?

Brad Miller: We are seeing clean air zones across the country with zero emission zones to follow. Fleets with a national footprint don’t like to site vehicles geographically; many want to swap by 2025 to ensure they are prepared for the zones and to meet their sustainability targets.

FN: What share of Vivaro registrations does electric account for?