Logistics: which electric van to choose in 2024?

Electric commercial vehicles, designed to transport goods or people, are gaining in popularity with professionals and private individuals alike. This is thanks to their reduced ecological impact, cost-effectiveness and convenience. But what benefits do they offer exactly? Which models will be available in 2024? How can we finance the purchase of such an electric truck ? Here are all the key facts you need to understand the world of electric commercial vehicles in 2024.

The benefits of going electric for your company

By choosing an electric utility, your company wins on several fronts. Here's why it could be a wise choice:

Reducing carbon footprint

Thanks to their zero-emission nature, electric vans release no CO2 or fine particles into the air. Opting for this ecological alternative positions you as a player in the fight against global warming and air pollution. It also enhances your image as an environmentally-conscious company, a valuable asset in your external communications and customer relations.

Long-term savings

Going electric also means significant savings. The cost per kilometer of an electric van is significantly lower than that of gasoline or diesel vehicles. Tax benefits such as an ecological bonus of up to €7,000, a conversion premium of up to €5,000, and exemption from the Taxe sur les Véhicules de Société (TVS) reinforce the economic appeal of these vehicles. Last but not least, their maintenance, simplified by the reduced number of mechanical parts, further reduces costs and the risk of breakdowns. With an ever-growing range of electric commercial vehicles on offer, every company will be able to find a model to suit its budget.

Easier access to certain urban areas

Opting for an electric commercial vehicle gives you easier access to many urban areas. In fact, these vehicles are authorized in Low Emission Zones (ZFE), which are increasingly present in French cities to limit the circulation of the most polluting vehicles. Choosing an electric vehicle means avoiding traffic restrictions and potential fines, and ensuring greater flexibility for deliveries or interventions in the city.

Choosing your electric van in 2024: models and innovations

In 2024, electric commercial vehicles are booming, with a wide range of models to suit every need. But when faced with such diversity, how do you make the right choice? What criteria are crucial? And what innovations should you be on the lookout for?

Power and batteries for electric vans

The transition to electric commercial vehicles raises many questions about their power and battery systems, two crucial aspects for professionals in need of reliable, high-performance vehicles.

Battery capacity and range : Modern electric van batteries, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), determine the vehicle's range. Brands such as Renault, Nissan and Peugeot are developing advanced battery technologies that enable a range of up to 500 kilometers on a single charge. An essential argument for professionals travelling long distances.
Power and performance : The power of electric commercial vehicles, expressed in kilowatts (kW), has a direct impact on their performance. Manufacturers such as Ford and Citroën are focusing on powerful electric motors to ensure not only rapid acceleration, but also the ability to carry heavy loads without compromising fuel efficiency.
Battery durability and maintenance: Manufacturers like Nissan and Peugeot are integrating advanced battery management systems to optimize battery life and reduce maintenance costs.
Technological innovations : Technological advances continue to improve battery power and efficiency. For example, innovations such as solid-state batteries promise to significantly increase range and reduce recharging times, marking the future of electric utility vehicles.

Power and batteries for electric commercial vehicles are at the heart of innovations in the sector. These advances guarantee not only superior performance, but also greater economic and ecological viability for electric vans.

What's new on the market

This year sees the arrival of a number of new electric utility models on the market, while others see their ranges rejuvenated. Among the most noteworthy launches are :

The Renault Kangoo Van E-Tech, successor to the Kangoo ZE, offers 265 km range, 4.3 m3 load capacity and can carry up to 702 kg.
The Nissan Townstar Electric, based on the same architecture as the Kangoo Van E-Tech, offering 250 km of range, 4.2 m3 of load capacity and a payload of 800 kg.
The Ford E-Transit, with its 350 km range, 15.1 m3 volume and 1,616 kg payload.
The Volkswagen Buzz Cargo, inspired by the legendary Combi, with an impressive range of 550 km, a capacity of 6.6 m3 and a payload of 800 kg.

Comparison of the best available models

To find the electric van that's right for you, you can compare models according to aspects such as range, power, load capacity, payload and pricing, not forgetting possible financial aid.
Manufacturers such as Peugeot and Citroën offer electric vans with flexible recharging options, adapting to existing and future infrastructures. Brands like Ford and Nissan are focusing on increasing battery capacity, enabling longer distances between recharges. Renault, with its expertise in electric vehicles, continues to innovate with models like the Kangoo Van E-Tech, offering an ideal combination of power and efficiency.

Here is a comparative analysis of the leading models of 2024, according to Automobile Propre :

Renault Kangoo Van E-Tech: 265 km, 102 bhp, 4.9 m3, 702 kg, €30,600
Nissan Townstar Electric: 250 km, 109 hp, 4.2 m3, 800 kg, €39,600
Volkswagen e-Crafter: 141 km, 136 hp, 10.7 m3, 1,000 kg, €57,100
Renault Master E-Tech: 200 km, 76 bhp, 13 m3, 1 425 kg, €53 900
Opel Vivaro-e: 330 km, 136 hp, 6.6 m3, 1,275 kg, €35,185
Citroën ë-Jumper: 340 km, 122 bhp, 17 m3, 1 890 kg, €60 990
Mercedes eSprinter: 157 km, 116 hp, 11 m3, 1,045 kg, €55,925
Ford E-Transit: 350 km, 198 hp, 15.1 m3, 1,616 kg, €49,135

Focus on technologies and accessories

As well as being practical and environmentally friendly, electric vans are distinguished by a host of technologies and accessories that enhance driving comfort. Notable innovations include :

The brake energy recovery system optimizes battery recharging and range.
Pre-air conditioning or pre-heating, which adjusts the temperature of the passenger compartment and battery before setting off, reducing range loss due to heating or air conditioning.
The connectivity system, enabling remote control of charge level, range, location and lock via a mobile application.
Driving aids, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, rearview camera and blind spot detector.

The different types of charging stations for electric vans

The efficiency and practicality of electric commercial vehicles are largely determined by the charging infrastructure available. Understanding the different types of recharging stations will enable you to optimize the use of these vehicles in a professional context.

Slow recharge

Slow-charging stations deliver between 7 kW and 22 kW of power. They are commonly installed in company parking lots or shopping areas , and can be fully recharged in several hours. They are a good compromise between speed and accessibility for everyday users of electric vans.

Fast charging

With outputs ranging from 43 kW to 50 kW for alternating current (AC) and up to 350 kW for direct current (DC), fast-charging stations can recharge the batteries of an electric van from 20% to 80% in less than an hour. They are ideal for professionals on the move who need a quick recharge during breaks.

Ultra-fast recharging

Ultra-fast charging technology, based mainly on direct current (DC), is currently being rolled out, and promises power ratings in excess of 350 kW. This innovation will enable near-instantaneous recharging, revolutionizing the use of electric vans for applications requiring high availability.

Smart charging stations

With the advent of smart grids, intelligent charging stations offer not only efficient recharging, but also optimized energy management. They can adjust charging power according to the needs of the electrical grid and vehicles, while enabling remote programming via mobile applications.

Costs and financing: what you need to know

The acquisition of an electric utility vehicle is a significant investment offering long-term profitability. To finance this purchase, various options are available to suit your budget and requirements. Public and private subsidies can also reduce the initial cost of your vehicle. What's more, fuel and maintenance costs are considerably lower than those of combustion engines, and contribute to significant savings. Here's a detailed explanation.

Buying, renting or leasing: which option to choose?

When it comes to purchasing your electric utility vehicle, there are three possible alternatives:

Cash purchase: Full payment on delivery. This is the most straightforward option, but also the most expensive, requiring substantial cash flow. It also carries a risk linked to the evolution of the electric vehicle market and the depreciation of the vehicle.
Location avec option d'achat (LOA): Lease of the vehicle for a predefined period, with the option of final purchase. This formula provides flexibility, allowing you to renew your vehicle frequently and pay only for its use. It also includes services such as maintenance and insurance, but implies certain conditions such as mileage and vehicle condition.
Leasing: Renting a vehicle for a set period of time, without an option to buy. This tax-advantageous option allows you to deduct the rental payments from your taxable income and benefit from VAT recovery. It offers access to a range of services, including battery rental and warranty, but commits you for the duration of the contract without granting you ownership of the vehicle.

Government incentives and subsidies

The purchase of an electric utility vehicle entitles you to various forms of financial assistance to reduce the cost of acquisition. This support comes from the State, local authorities or private entities. Among the most important are

Ecological bonus: A government bonus of up to €7,000 for a new electric van and €5,000 for a used one, depending on the price of the truck and the vehicle's range.
Prime à la conversion: up to €5,000 assistance for the purchase of a new or used electric commercial vehicle, conditional on the scrapping of an old petrol or diesel vehicle. The bonus depends on household income and the vehicle's environmental category.
Local subsidies: Additional subsidies offered by certain regions, départements or communes, reinforcing the ecological bonus or conversion premium, with varying criteria and amounts.
Incentives : Promotional offers from manufacturers, dealers or energy suppliers to encourage the purchase of electric commercial vehicles. They include discounts, trade-in offers or advantageous credits.

And carmakers are getting in on the act! Financing offers for the purchase of electric vans are emerging, with a variety of options offered by manufacturers such as Renault, Peugeot and Ford.

Estimated fuel and maintenance savings

Driving an electric van means substantial savings on fuel and maintenance, thanks to lower costs than those of combustion models. Factors to consider include cost per kilometer, charging costs and maintenance expenses.

Electric vehicle recharging costs, although variable, remain lower than those of traditional fuels, especially when recharging takes place during off-peak hours. In addition, manufacturers such as Nissan and Citroën offer innovative battery management solutions, optimizing vehicle longevity and performance and reducing costs. Electric commercial vehicles offer considerable ecological and economic advantages. They offer a significant reduction in carbon footprint, sustainable savings and access to a wide range of financial incentives. To make the right choice, it's essential to compare the features, performance and price of different models. But it's also important to select the financing method that's right for you, and to take into account the lower operating costs of electric compared to internal combustion.

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Electric vans represent the future of transport and logistics, offering your company a host of advantages. Choosing an electric van means reducing your ecological impact, saving money over the long term, and benefiting from a range of financial incentives. You'll also benefit from a wide range of models, designed to meet every need, and equipped with cutting-edge technologies and accessories. You can also choose from a range of financing solutions to suit your budget and requirements. Many other vehicles are also available, including trucks, buses and even electric refrigerated trucks! So it's time to take the plunge and go electric! You'll find it's a decision you won't regret.

Electrify your fleet: choosing the right electric van