New electric Berlingo unveiled

Citroën is unveiling its new electric Berlingo at the Hanover Motor Show this month, reaffirming its commitment to electric vehicles.

The new Electric Berlingo features the latest electric vehicle technology, while retaining all the qualities of the current Berlingo range, such as load volumes of up to 4.1m3 and a payload capacity of 675kg.

As well as meeting the need for significant load capacity, it also represents an opportunity for business users to project a positive image of their company and to advertise their desire to protect the environment, says Citroën.

Through innovative design, the various parts of the electric powertrain are contained under the bonnet or beneath other areas of the body shell. This means that the electric Berlingo is not compromised in terms of load volume or carrying capacity.

The complete two-part battery pack is installed under the vehicle’s flat load deck, so that the load compartment is identical to the one found in the traditionally powered models.

With a total battery capacity of 22.5kWh, the Electric Berlingo claims a range of up to 106miles and can be charged in two ways. The normal charge mode lasts between six and 12 hours, depending on the available current, while the batteries can be charged to 80% of their capacity in 30 minutes in quick-charge mode.

The Electric Berlingo’s motor was developed with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and has a maximum power output of 49kW (67hp) and maximum torque of 200Nm. Its power is transmitted to the front wheels through a speed reducer and a single-ratio gearbox.

Depending on the market, the Electric Berlingo will be available with two bodywork options, normal and long, which respectively measure 4.38m and 4.63m. The load volume can reach 4.1m3 and the maximum weight capacity is 675 kg, which are both identical to the internal combustion versions.

Scott Michael, Citroën’s head of commercial vehicles & business centre programme, said: “The launch of the new Electric Berlingo at Hanover is exciting news.

“When it goes on UK sale in the second half of 2013 it will further expand the appeal of Citroën’s advanced LCV range with business customers looking for innovative environmental transport solutions.”

UK specification and pricing will be announced closer to the launch.