The Citroen Berlingo Electric is to make its UK debut at the 2013 CV Show.
Being held at the Birmingham NEC from today (April 9th) for three days, the event will give those considering the latest Citroen deals an opportunity to take a look at a vehicle that is set for release later this year.
It is hoped that the new model will build on the success in the electric light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment that the manufacturer has enjoyed following the introduction to the market of the first generation Berlingo Electrique van in 1998, which was on sale until 2005.
The Berlingo Electric can be fully charged in 12 hours using a domestic socket, while the employment of a specific 380V three-phase terminal in quick charge mode will see the vehicle charged to 80 per cent of its capacity in just 35 minutes.
Scott Michael, head of commercial vehicles and the business centre programme at Citroen, said: "The new Berlingo Electric has been launched to meet the transport requirements of a number of significant specialist sectors.
"Our previous electric LCV experience showed that these specific operations include local authority applications such as meals on wheels, parks departments and many other metropolitan council applications."
Mr Michael noted the manufacturer is anticipating an increase in demand from urban-based businesses in the private sector.
This is because there tends to be greater availability of public charging points and more favourable parking legislation in these areas, which serve to complement "ease of driving and silent operation".
The Berlingo Electric is not the only new product set to be launched at the show, however, as visitors to the manufacturer's stand can also expect to see the Dispatch HDi 125 L1H1 1200 six-seat Crew Van and Stop & Start equipped Relay vans.
While Citroen fans will get the chance to see the Berlingo Electric at the NEC, others may have seen a different model from the carmaker when visiting Edinburgh Zoo, as the company has displayed its DS3 vehicle in a special penguin box at the tourist attraction as part of a sponsorship stunt.
For the best Citroen deals, go to Cars2buy.
Posted by Peter Murray