13 November 2023
13 Mins read

Charging Ahead: The Best Electric Vans of 2023

The electric van has rapidly evolved from niche ideas to core vehicles for businesses, taking the industrial automotive market by storm in the process. While petrol and hybrid vans have made inroads into diesel domination, fully electric vans are becoming more and more popular.

Throughout the last few years, we have seen large electric vans arrive, where maximum cargo volume is the priority over the payload. These have been introduced alongside small electric vans, which are designed for short urban routes. Just five years ago, diesel remained king but as battery capacity is offering longer ranges, we’re now at a stage where even the popular mid-sized van class is a viable market for electrification.

No matter if you’re a long-time van owner looking to make the step up to something more modern or a new business owner who wants to make an economical decision with their new van fleet, the sheer range of quality vans out there is dizzying. Here are the five models that represent the cream of the crop in 2023.

Ford E-Transit

Starting with the electrified version of the UK’s most popular van. The Ford E-Transit is a long-overdue revamp that continues to rule the roost even when the motor is electric instead of petrol and diesel.

The result of an intense development period, the E-Transit is an excellently made bridge between classic Transit practicality and EV technology that goes the extra mile. With an excellent range of 196 miles, the electric motor doesn’t compromise on space, as the panel van offers up to 15m³ of load space and a payload that almost reaches 1,800kg. What’s more, the cabin is designed to be ergonomic, offering a seating position that you’ll want after a long day grafting and easy access to vehicle controls and monitoring systems, reducing driver fatigue over long shifts.

None of these stats and features are impressive compared to the fact that Ford still manages to keep the E-Transit as one of the most affordable vans on the market.

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Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo is a retrofuturistic reimagining of the iconic Volkswagen campervan, distinctively designed from scratch to be a purely electric vehicle. With an innovative edge, this VW electric van offers an unmatched driving experience.

It boasts a sophisticated, hushed ride, free from the usual rolls in the corners. Inside, a 230V AC socket in the cargo area stands ready to power tools, enhancing its practical utility. Its range is an impressive 256 miles on a single charge, which means infrequent charging, a significant boon for busy professionals. Plus, the soft power of its unmistakable style will reflect on your business image, making it not just a vehicle, but a part of your brand.

Echoing the Ford E-Transit’s blend of traditional charm and modern EV technology, the VW ID. Buzz Cargo takes it a notch higher, marrying the classic Volkswagen spirit with the efficiency and environmental consciousness of today. This VW electric van is more than a mode of transport; it’s a testament to Volkswagen’s commitment to innovation, style, and sustainability.

Volkswagen Id.buzz Cargo Leasing Deals

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Mercedes eSprinter

If you’re looking for a more upmarket electric van that treats you to luxury technology and materials, then look no further than the modern and spacious Mercedes eSprinter.

Essentially an electric version of the popular Mercedes Sprinter large panel van, the eSprinter utilises more space under the cargo floor to hold a larger 55kWh battery capacity and a 113bhp electric motor. This gives the Merc up to 83 miles of range with a 75mph speed limiter, or 96 miles with a 50mph limit. While the battery may impact the payload weights, the cargo volume of 11 cubic metres remains unchanged in the single style the eSprinter was set to be offered in. As an optional extra, you can also enjoy 80kW fast charging that can top up the eSprinter from 0-80% in half an hour.

But it’s inside where the eSprinter really shines. Dripping with class on the inside, Mercedes has decked it out with faux leather upholstery and the brilliant MBUX infotainment system. Available with a choice of battery sizes and body styles, the Mercedes eSprinter is a wise choice.

Mercedes-Benz Esprinter L2 Leasing Deals

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Citroen e-Dispatch

The Citroen e-Dispatch is a result of the Stellantis-Toyota partnership that seems to have taken the market by storm, much like the smaller e-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Expert and Vauxhall Vivaro-e. However, Citroën is known for its innovative designs, and the e-Dispatch has the feel of a typical Citroën van with all the benefits electric power affords drivers.

As we wrote in our review of the e-Dispatch, these mid-size panel vans are a great choice for tradespeople looking to go electric at the same cost as regular van performance. It has the same load area, flexibility and cargo amenities as the petrol equivalent, and if you opt for the larger 75kWh battery, you get 150 miles of range on mixed roads with a close-to-full payload. You’ll be glad to know that the battery location doesn’t affect carrying capacity, as there is a cargo volume of up to 6.6 cubic metres if you add the optional thru-loading bulkhead.

Payload is rated at around one tonne, and Citroen has jam-packed it with safety and connectivity features. This van shows off the merits of switching to electric in a stylish fashion that’s typical for the French automaker.

Citroen E-Dispatch XL Leasing Deals

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Fiat E-Ducato

Fiat’s E-Ducato has a range of up to 175 miles and is available for drivers, comfortably longer than any other large panel van around. Fiat has given the electric van market an Italian flair, commendably doing so without compromising on practicality and performance.

The E-Ducato has an impressive maximum payload of up to 1.9 tonnes and a cargo area that stretches from 10 to 17 cubic metres, so sofas and large furniture and equipment can fit in with no trouble. Then there are the extra quality-of-life features, such as the rear cargo doors that open out to 270° so you can load in tight spaces without disturbing passers-by.

Customisation is one of the core philosophies of the Fiat e-Ducato, and this is exemplified by its total of 28 different body styles, including three lengths, three heights, a chassis cab option and even a passenger version with up to 9 seats. By every metric, Fiat has made the E-Ducato a van equipped to do it all.

Fiat E-Ducato LWB Leasing Deals

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It doesn’t matter what you use your van for or where you drive it, chances are that in the near future, you will have to look into greener options for your fleet. Not only do they come with a range of government incentives and tax benefits but they also tend to be cheaper to run.

cars2buy has a huge range of brand-new electric van leases available from major manufacturers and trusted dealerships at the best monthly prices you can find in the UK. Our transparent services compile the internet’s best electric car lease offers from trusted and reputable dealerships, all in one convenient location. With everything in one place, it’s effortless to search, filter, sort, and contrast the different options, ensuring you discover the ideal model for your needs. Browse our catalogue of brand-new electric van lease deals today, and you might just find yourself switching to electric power before you know it.