Fiat has opened order books for its new E-Ducato – the brand’s first electric van that arrives with a range of up to 230 miles.
Though the Ducato has been around for some time with diesel engines, and is an especially popular choice for campervan conversions, Fiat is now introducing the electric ‘E’ model to expand its appeal.
Buyers will be able to choose from two battery packs with a 47kWh and 79kWh capacity, which allow for claimed ranges of 113 miles and 230 miles respectively. They can also use 50kW chargers, which give a 0-80 per cent charge in as little as 30 minutes. Both models are also accompanied by a 90kW (120bhp) electric motor and produce 290Nm of torque, with 0-30mph achieved in 5.9 seconds, though they have a top speed of just 62mph.
They’re also equipped with regenerative braking to maximise range, while additional driving modes let you decide how you want to use the power and range.
They’re expected to be most popular in cities, where zero tailpipe emissions means they escape London’s Congestion Charge and Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ).
Fiat promises no loss of versatility compared with the diesel van, too, with the E-Ducato having a payload of up to 1,885kg, and a load volume of up to 17m3.
Two trim levels are available – the standard van and the eTecnico. Entry-level kit is still generous, though, and includes a five-inch touchscreen, LED lighting and electric heated mirrors.
The eTecnico then brings a larger seven-inch touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a reversing camera and leather steering wheel.
All E-Ducatos also come with a five-year warranty, five years of roadside assistance and five years of free servicing, while the battery is covered for years.
Prices for the E-Ducato start from £47,675 (after the plug-in car grant), with first deliveries expected in April.
