Jack of All Trades Master of None

Geely’s Farizon SV Enters UK Electric Van Market with Tech-Forward Approach

Automotive giant Geely has launched its first electric commercial vehicle in the UK market. The Farizon SV aims to disrupt the electric van sector with purpose-built EV design and premium technology features that challenge established competitors like the Ford E-Transit Custom.

The SV spans multiple size categories, with its largest variant comparable to a full-size E-Transit, while its styling and technology put it in competition with the Volkswagen ID Buzz.

Design and Interior

Built on a dedicated EV platform, the SV features a sleek, aerodynamic profile that takes advantage of not having to accommodate an internal combustion engine. The sharply angled windscreen creates a distinctive look but introduces thick A-pillars that significantly restrict visibility.

Inside, the van comes surprisingly well-equipped with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, separate driver display, and physical climate controls. Standard features include:

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
Automatic climate control
Heated and ventilated driver’s seat
Heated windscreen
Heated steering wheel

However, build quality falls short of expectations. Thin, flimsy plastics appear throughout the cabin, and the infotainment system proves unintuitive despite its comprehensive feature set. An overly sensitive safety warning system triggers frequent alerts for routine actions.

Storage options are notably limited, with no proper cupholders and minimal compartments for documents or equipment.

Performance and Range

The SV offers three battery options:

67kWh lithium iron phosphate
83kWh lithium iron phosphate
106kWh nickel manganese cobalt (largest model only)

The top configuration delivers a WLTP range of 247 miles – just 3 miles less than Ford’s E-Transit with its 89kWh battery.

Charging capabilities are competitive, with the 67kWh and 106kWh batteries supporting 120kW DC fast charging, while the 83kWh version accepts up to 140kW. This enables 20-80% charging in as little as 36 minutes.

A 228bhp electric motor drives the front wheels with 248lb ft of torque. Farizon claims a 0-62mph time of 12 seconds, though our test van carried a 600kg load. The van reaches an indicated 88mph at maximum speed.

Three drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – adjust throttle response and regenerative braking intensity. While the strongest regen setting doesn’t provide true one-pedal driving, it significantly reduces brake use in urban environments.

Practicality and Payload

The SV comes in five configurations with load volumes from just under 7m³ to 13m³ – up to 20% more than some competitors. This positions it between the Ford E-Transit Custom (7.7m³) and full-size E-Transit (15.1m³).

Payload capacity ranges from 1,035kg to 1,350kg, making it a class leader. A built-in payload monitoring system displays the van’s weight in real-time, though it also reveals the driver’s weight when they exit the vehicle.

All models can tow up to two tonnes.

Loading access benefits from a low 550mm floor height and wide side door openings. Rear doors open to 180 degrees as standard, with 270-degree hinges available as a £300 option.

Pricing and Warranty

Farizon offers a streamlined pricing structure with a single well-equipped trim level. Prices start at £45,000 (plus VAT) for the L1H1 model and reach £56,000 for the largest L3H3 variant.

The £5,000 plug-in van grant remains available until March 2026.

Warranty coverage extends to four years or 120,000 miles – significantly more generous than Ford’s Transit warranty. To compensate for its limited dealer network, Farizon has partnered with the AA to provide mobile repair services.

Verdict

The Farizon SV brings an interesting alternative to the UK electric van market. Its combination of advanced features, decent handling, strong payload capacity and competitive pricing makes it worth consideration.

The real-time payload monitoring system is particularly innovative, helping drivers stay within the van’s generous weight limits.

For small businesses and owner-operators seeking an electric van with standout features, the SV presents a compelling option. It performs adequately across multiple areas without truly excelling in any single aspect.