Peugeot has announced details of its e-Expert electric van, which goes on sale in the second half of 2020, offering two different ranges, three body lengths, up to 1,000kg towing capacity and payloads of up to 1,275kg.
Following in the footsteps of its recently revealed sister models, the Citroën ë-Dispatch and the Vauxhall Vivaro-e, the e-Expert joins the existing Euro 6D ICE Expert models and will target both urban and rural operators.
According to the brand, nearly 80% of commercial vehicle drivers travel, on average, less than 124 miles (200km) per day; a distance easily taken care of by the e-Expert’s range of up to 143 miles (230km) with the 50kWh battery in Compact and Standard lengths. A 75kWh battery is also available in Standard and Long models, giving a range of up to 205 miles (330km).
Payload volumes are the same as those of the internal combustion engines and the payloads, adapted to the 100% electric engine, stand at up to 1,275kg. It also offers the same towing capacity as ICE versions, ranging up to 1,000kg, but has a specially calibrated power steering system, with a turning circle diameter of 11.3m for the Compact version and a height limit of 1.9m (depending on the version) which guarantees access to most car parks.
Operators can also specify the Moduwork three-seater bench, which brings a trapdoor in the partition and a folding side seat, aiding practicality.
It can even by converted by third-party firms, in particular for conversions based on the cabin floor, such as incorporating a refrigeration cell.
The battery is guaranteed for eight years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for 70% of its charge capacity.
Charging can be carried out using a 7.4 kW wallbox, giving a full charge in 7.5 hours (50kWh battery) or 11 hours 20 minutes (75kWh battery) using the standard single-phase 7.4kW on-board charger. Fleets specifying an optional 11kW three-phase charger can use an 11kW wallbox, giving a full charge in five hours (50kWh battery) or 7.5 hours (75kWh battery).
Drivers can also use 100kW public rapid chargers, providing an 80% charge in 30 minutes (50kWh battery) or 45 minutes (75kWh battery).
Charging can be programmed via the Connected Navigation screen or from the MyPeugeot smartphone application, depending on version.
Peugeot is also offering a range of charging services, including solutions for home or the workplace, in partnership with home charge point providers. Drivers can also sign up to a Mobility Pass rental scheme to provide access to an internal combustion vehicle for a longer trip when required.
The 136hp electric motor has maximum torque of 260Nm and gives a maximum speed in Power mode of 80mph (130km/h) with a 0 to 62mph (100km/h) time of 13.1 seconds. Three different driving modes are offered – Eco, Normal or Power – along two braking modes, covering Moderate and Emphasised regenerative braking.
Equipment details are still be revealed but technology includes a touch screen, with MirrorScreen compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and TomTom Traffic Connected 3D Navigation.
A number of driving aids will be available. In addition, ensuring pedestrian safety, an audible signal will be sounded at up to 18mph to indicate the presence of the vehicle in both forward and reverse.
Production starts in the coming weeks near Valenciennes in France and the e-Expert will go on sale in Europe in the second half of 2020.
