New budget EV van with a twist dubbed ‘something no one else can offer’ is launched by huge car brand
A MAJOR car brand is launching a new budget EV with a twist.
Citroën UK boss Greg Taylor says the £15,000 ë-C3 van gives “something that the market can’t offer at the moment”.
Out next month, it’s based on the larger-battery (44kWh) version of the ë-C3 super mini car with 200-miles of range, with charging speeds of up to 100kW.
Mr Taylor said the brand “can see a niche” in such a model and has taken inspiration from its rivals.
It is looking to attract buyers who might have opted for the now-discontinued Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsavan.
He told Autocar: “Ford used to sell thousands of Fiesta vans.
“Part of our goal is to reinvigorate that segment, and we’re excited to start with this.”
The new motor – which has 1.3 square metres of load space – targets firms that don’t need bigger vans and is aimed at last-mile deliveries and short-distance journeys.
Mr Taylor added: “There are people who don’t need a Berlingo and it can give something that the market can’t offer at the moment.”
The van comes with all the features of the car version but with the rear seats and seatbelt points removed, and a mesh bulkhead installed to increase load space.
Citroën currently has five EVs available for under £30,000, including the upcoming ë-C3 Aircross, with the company looking to push affordable e-motors.
Mr Taylor is adamant the range isn’t a reactionary measure but one which allows the brand to maintain its “upward trajectory”.
It comes as changes to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), also known as road or car tax, will be put into force from April 1.
It means those with electric, zero or low emission cars, vans and motorbikes will have to pay the tax for the first time.
And if you are buying an electric car for £40,000 or more, you could be paying over £2,000 in a matter of weeks.
The new rules mean EV owners will have to pay tax at the alternative fuel rate, currently £180 a year.
Cars that cost £40k or more will incur the premium car surcharge, aka luxury tax.
Best EVs to buy NOW before huge tax change
By Ethan Singh
FIVE of the best EVs to buy now before huge tax changes hit have been revealed.
Changes to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), also known as road or car tax, will be put into force from April 1.
Here, we reveal our top 5 electric cars to get your hands on before next month’s changes kick in.
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
Tesla Model 3s are very popular with electric vehicle fans nowadays.
The sleek motor is available from £44,990.
Tesla’s impressive charging infrastructure is a huge draw as few EVs make charging quite so easy or intuitive.
The Model 3’s roomy, airy interior and immense performance only make it more appealing.
BMW i4
The BMW i4 is available from £51,270 and is a solid choice for drivers.
Its four-door coupe isn’t quite as agile as most BMWs but it’s still good to drive.
The wide-opening boot lid makes it handy too for those with more things to carry around.
Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 is a sleek electric which is available from £44,950.
It boasts of the smartest interiors, as well as one of the slickest touchscreens in any electric car.
The Polestar 2 also has slick handling and beautifully weighted controls.
It’s perfect for those who want a slick car which isn’t too big.
Volkswagen ID.Buzz
For those who want a larger car, look no further than the Volkswagen ID.Buzz.
The modern interpretation of the manufacturer’s classic Type 2 Bus has been a great hit with drivers.
It has a choice of five or seven seats, loads of space for family adventures and wonderfully flexible seating.
The Buzz effortlessly defines the electric SUV as a multi-person vehicle and is available from just over £59,000.
Kia EV6
The EV6 boasts a stunning blend of extrovert styling, handsome interior and vast passenger space.
The classy motor retails for just over £45,000.
The EV76 has lots of space inside but the rear seats are not that versatile and the boot can be on the small side.
However, it also shares the same fast-charging architecture as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, meaning you won’t have to stop at public chargers for long.