May 6, 2022 | Wesley van Barlingen
As the global demand for online deliveries and logistics increases, the number of light commercial vehicles (LCVs) on the road is projected to soar from 11.83 million in 2020 to 16 million by 2026. At the same time, increasingly stringent emissions targets and rising costs, are pushing companies such as Amazon, DHL, FedEx, and UPS, to electrify their commercial fleets.
While electric LVCs are still generally more expensive to buy than their diesel counterparts, their lower operating costs and minimal maintenance requirements make their total cost of ownership (TCO) comparable or even inferior to that of an internal combustion engine (ICE) alternative.
The best electric LCV for your business depends greatly on your needs, however, a key consideration will likely be around charging. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled below an overview of some of the most popular electric LCVs for 2022, including how long it takes to charge them.
This article features the following vehicles (click for quick access):
The smallest in Citroën’s line of electric vans, the e-Berlingo is a flexible, versatile vehicle. Unlike its predecessors, the e-Berlingo was designed from the outset as an EV, which means it retains the same carrying capacity as the diesel version. Amongst all the LCVs on our list, it charges the fastest, supporting up to 100 kW of DC power, and has one of the longest ranges at 280 km, making it well-suited for heavier daily use.
The Citroën e-Berlingo comes in 2 models: the e-Berlingo M and the e-Berlingo XL. Both have a 50 kWh battery and 280 km range, with the XL being 35 cm longer and being able to seat up to seven people instead of the M’s five.
The range of a Citroën e-Berlingo is 280 km. This will depend greatly based on driving style and load.
The battery capacity of a Citroën e-Berlingo is 50 kWh.
The starting prices for the Citroën e-Berlingo range between €27,010 and €30,560*, depending on the model.
*The cost of a Citroën e-Berlingo can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Citroën’s Dutch catalog price.
The time it takes to charge up a Citroën e-Berlingo varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
| Charging level | Charging output |
Charging times* |
| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 23h 54 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.4 kW | 07h 25 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 11 kW | 5h |
| Level 2 (AC) | 22 kW | 2h 30 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 50 kW | 40 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 100 kW | 20 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
Sharing many parts with the Citroën e-Berlingo, the Peugeot e-Partner is similarly priced and specced, with a 275 km range and up to 4.4 m3 payload. Like the Citroën, it supports up to 100 kW fast charging and a range of AC charging outputs, making it a reliable and versatile choice for longer trips.
Like its cousin, the Citroën e-Berlingo, the Peugeot e-Partner also comes in two models: Standard and Long. The Standard version is 4.4 m long and can carry up to 3.8 m3 payload, while the Long version is 4.75 m long and can carry up to 4.4 m3 payload. Both have a 50 kWh battery and a 275 km range.
The range of a Peugeot e-Partner is 275 km. This will depend greatly based on driving style and load.
The battery capacity of a Peugeot e-Partner is 50 kWh.
The starting prices for the Peugeot e-Partner range between €27,010 and €30,560*, depending on the model.
*The cost of a Peugeot e-Partner can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Peugeot’s Dutch catalog price.
The time it takes to charge up a Peugeot e-Partner varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
|
Charging level
|
Charging output
|
Charging times*
|
|
Level 1 (AC)
|
2.3 kW
|
23h 54 min
|
|
Level 2 (AC)
|
7.4 kW
|
7h 25 min
|
|
Level 2 (AC)
|
11 kW
|
5h
|
|
Level 2 (DC)
|
22 kW
|
2h 30 min
|
|
Level 3 (DC)
|
50 kW
|
40 min
|
|
Level 3 (DC)
|
100 kW
|
20 min
|
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
In the large van market, the Fiat E-Ducato offers a highly versatile package, with a range of heights, lengths, and chassis available for a total of 24 possible combinations. Its two battery sizes provide either 235 or 370 kilometers of range, which can easily be topped up in under an hour with 50 kW fast charging, making the E-Ducato well-suited for all-day use.
The Fiat E-Ducato is available in three heights (H1, H2, H3) and three wheelbases (Medium, Long, XL). All versions can be configured with 2 battery sizes:
The range of a Fiat E-Ducato is either 235 km or 370 km.
The battery capacity of a Fiat E-Ducato is either 49 kWh or 79 kWh.
*The cost of a Fiat E-Ducato can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Fiat’s Dutch catalog price.
The time it takes to charge up a Fiat E-Ducato varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
| Charging level | Charging output |
Charging times*:
49 kWh
|
Charging times*:
79 kWh
|
| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 23h 26 min | 37h 46 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.0 kW | 7h 42 min | 12h 24 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 11 kW | 4h 53 min | 7h 54 min |
| Level 2(AC) | 22 kW | 2h 26 min | 3h 57 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 50 kW | 39 min | 1h 03 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
Peugeot’s e-Boxer is another large electric van, with a range of heights and wheelbase lengths. Like the Fiat, it comes in two battery sizes, although its range is somewhat on the lower end at 117 km or 224 km. Still, that distance should be enough for the majority of urban deliveries, and where needed, the e-Boxer can quickly charge up with 50 kW maximum fast charging.
The Peugeot e-Boxer comes in two models, which can be configured with different lengths, heights, and trims.
The range of a Peugeot e-Boxer is either 117 km or 224 km.
The battery capacity of a Peugeot e-Boxer is either 37 kWh or 70 kWh.
The starting prices for the Peugeot e-Boxer range between €57,990 and €66,380*, depending on the model.
*The cost of a Peugeot e-Boxer can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Peugeot’s Dutch catalog price.
The time it takes to charge up a Peugeot e-Boxer varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
| Charging level | Charging output |
Charging times*:
37 kWh
|
Charging times*:
70 kWh
|
| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 17h 41 min | 33h 28 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.4 kW | 5h 30 min | 10h 24 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 22 kW | 1h 51 min | 3h 30 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 50 kW | 29 min | 56 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
This year sees Mercedes updating its three-year-old eSprinter with a newer, much more capable, purpose-built EV. Depending on the battery capacity, it can carry between 846 kg and 1,149 kg payload, with 11 m3 of useful space. While its standard, fast charging capability tops out at 20 kW, the eSprinter can be configured with up to 80 kW charging capacity for added versatility.
The Mercedes eSprinter comes in two models:
The range of a Mercedes eSprinter is either 105 km or 145 km.
The battery capacity of a Mercedes eSprinter is either 35 kWh or 47 kWh.
The starting prices for the Mercedes eSprinter range between €55,135 and €63,017*, depending on the model.
*The cost of a Mercedes eSprinter can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Mercedes’ Dutch catalog price.
The time it takes to charge up a Mercedes eSprinter varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
|
Charging level
|
Charging output
|
Charging times*:
35 kWh
|
Charging times*:
47 kWh
|
| Level 1 (AC) | 2.3 kW | 16h 44 min | 22h 28 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.4 kW | 5h 12 min | 6h 59 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 20 kW | 1h 10 min | 1h 34min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 50 kW | 28 min | 37 min |
| Level 3 (DC) | 80 kW | 17 min | 23 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
A third option in the family of large vans is the Renault Master E-Tech, based on the company’s reliable diesel version of the Master. While its 33 kWh battery and 120 km range may seem comparatively low, it boasts one of the largest carrying capacities of any electric van on the list. At up to 1,300 kg and 13 m3, it supports a generous payload that makes the E-Tech a compelling choice for last-mile delivery.
The Renault Master E-Tech is available in three lengths (Short, Medium, Long) and two heights (Low and Medium). All models come with a 33 kWh battery and 120 km range.
The range of a Renault Master E-Tech is 120 km.
The battery capacity of a Renault Master E-Tech is 33 kWh.
The Renault Master E-Tech starts from €57,560*, depending on the model.
*The cost of a Renault Master E-Tech can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Renault’s Dutch catalog price.
The time it takes to charge up a Renault Master E-Tech varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
|
Charging level
|
Charging output
|
Charging times*
|
|
Level 1 (AC)
|
2.3 kW
|
15h 46 min
|
|
Level 2 (AC)
|
7.4 kW
|
4h 25 min
|
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
Like the eSprinter, Mercedes is also updating the eVito this year. It’s receiving an impressive battery and performance upgrade, with a new 60 kWh capacity and a much-improved 280 km range. The eVito also retains its predecessor’s practicality, with up to 6.6 m3 carrying capacity that exceeds most other small electric vans.
All Mercedes eVito models feature a 60 kWh battery with a range of 280 km. They can be configured with a Long or Extra-Long wheelbase, with a payload capacity of 6.0 m3 and 6.6 m3 respectively.
The range of a Mercedes eVito is 280 km.
The battery capacity of a Mercedes eVito is 60 kWh.
The Mercedes eVito starts from €46,090*, depending on the model.
*The cost of a Mercedes eVito can vary based on your location and dealership. The prices for the Netherlands were taken at the time of writing from Mercedes’ Dutch catalog price.
The updated eVito with its new 60 kWh battery is starting to ship across Europe in late April 2022.
The time it takes to charge up a Mercedes eVito varies based on the power output and type of charger. We’ve calculated the charging time with the most common charging outputs at each charging level.
|
Charging level
|
Charging output
|
Charging times*
|
|
Level 1 (AC)
|
2.3 kW | 28h 41 min |
| Level 2 (AC) | 7.4 kW | 8h 55 min |
|
Level 2 (AC)
|
11 kW | 6h |
|
Level 3 (DC)
|
50 kW | 48 min |
|
Level 3 (DC)
|
80 kW** | 30 min |
*These numbers provide a calculated estimation of charging times – from 0 to 100 percent (AC) and 20 to 80 (DC) percent state of charge (SOC) – and do not reflect actual charging times or real-life situations. For a more accurate representation of (or more information on) actual charging times, please refer to the original manufacturer or certified dealerships. The results are based on an equation that uses the standard battery size and average performance of charging stations as metrics and are rounded up for readability. The highest DC charging power is the maximum power supported by the vehicle.
**The Mercedes eVito comes standard with a maximum DC charging output of 50 kW, but can be upgraded to 80 kW as an option.
Far from a time when electric vans were just a retrofit of their diesel-powered versions, manufacturers today are offering dozens of capable, cost-efficient electric light commercial vehicles. We hope this article has provided an overview of some of the main ones for this year and given you an idea of their different charging possibilities.
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