Motor Parts Direct has moved into the electric van space for the first time with an order for 40 Citroën ë-Berlingo Vans.
The independent motor factor, which has been operating since 1999, continues to grow across the country and has ordered the eLCVs as it looks to operate more sustainably. It’s also placed an order for 220 diesel-powered Citroën Berlingo Vans and Relay vans at the same time, adding to its 850-strong Citroën fleet.
The ë-Berlingo Van has been designed as a zero-emissions compact LCV that doesn’t compromise in terms of space and operational capabilities. It delivers a range of up to 171 miles (WLTP), a choice of two lengths, load capacity of up to 4.4m3 and a maximum payload of up to 803kg.
Featuring a 50kWh battery and a 136hp electric motor, ë-Berlingo Van supports up to 100kW rapid (DC) charging, with an 80% charge taking just 30 minutes. Drivers can choose between three driving modes, Normal, Eco and Power, via a specific control in the centre console.
Kevin Blazey, marketing director at Motor Parts Direct, said the range and quick charge functionality on the ë-Berlingo Vans was ideal for its local service.
He commented: “We had been looking at an EV van that had the range and the quick charge facility, as more large cities are introducing congestion and low emission charges. We had a few demo electric vans in on test, before deciding to order the ë-Berlingo Vans.”
Blazey added: “We have been very pleased with the build quality and the specification.”
The ë-Berlingo Van is part of Citroën’s growing eLCV range, alongside the ë-Dispatch medium van, plus the ë-Relay large van that was introduced earlier this year to complete the brand’s all-electric ë-LCV line-up for UK customers. Citroën will also offer an electrified variant across each of its passenger car ranges by 2025.
Eurig Druce, managing director of Citroën UK, commented: “Citroën ë-Berlingo Van is an important model in our electric van line-up. We know it can reduce total cost of ownership for a whole range of businesses – and that’s on top of the well-known Berlingo Van benefits of huge practicality, modularity and load space.”
