Electric vans are transforming UK businesses, with options now spanning from compact last-mile delivery vehicles to long-range heavy haulers that can tackle serious workloads.
Selecting the best electric van isn’t straightforward. The commercial vehicle market serves widely different needs across size, payload, cargo capacity, range, charging capabilities and budget considerations.
With expert input from LCV specialist and What Car? Van of the Year judge Phil Huff, we’ve identified the top electric vans currently available across various segments.
Renault Master E-Tech
Renault has applied its electric expertise to create Britain’s best electric van. The Master E-Tech delivers class-leading specifications at a surprisingly competitive price point.
This all-new van offers up to 285 miles of range, 1,625kg load capacity and one of the most user-friendly cabins available – all at prices typically seen in smaller van categories.
Volkswagen Transporter
The latest VW T7 Transporter shares much of its underpinnings with the Ford E-Transit Custom, but VW has added its own distinctive front end, interface and high-spec trim options.
Available in two body sizes with payloads up to 1,088kg, the eTransporter offers three motor options (134bhp, 216bhp or 282bhp) paired with a 64kWh battery delivering up to 201 miles range.
VW plans to introduce a 4Motion all-wheel-drive version and additional body styles in the future.
Ford E-Transit Custom
The Transit Custom has dominated UK van sales for years, and the electric version maintains everything that made it successful while adding compelling EV options.
All variants feature a 64kWh battery with three motor choices – 134bhp (economy-focused), 216bhp (balanced performance) and a potent 282bhp in the MS-RT model.
Every version includes a one-tonne payload capability alongside 209 miles of range, plus connected technology supporting fleet management.
Ford E-Transit Courier
Ford’s newest electric LCV slots below the E-Transit Custom, targeting businesses needing a more compact but still practical option.
The E-Transit Courier features a 134bhp motor and 49kWh battery providing 186 miles range. While its 700kg payload isn’t class-leading, the cargo area is 25% larger than its predecessor at 2.9m³.
Like other Ford vans, it offers superior driving dynamics, a well-designed cab and connected services that simplify ownership.
Ford E-Transit
The Transit name is synonymous with versatile workhorses, and Ford has successfully carried this reputation into the electric era.
Available in 15 different configurations with payloads between 750kg and 1,785kg, there’s an E-Transit for virtually any business need. Load space remains identical to diesel equivalents.
Two motor options deliver either 181bhp or 266bhp, both producing 317lb ft torque. The standard 68kWh battery offers 196 miles range, while an 89kWh extended option reaches 249 miles but reduces payload capacity.
Renault Kangoo E-Tech
The second-generation electric Kangoo represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor.
A larger 45kWh battery replaces the previous 33kWh unit, extending range to 186 miles. The motor output jumps from 59bhp to a much more capable 121bhp with 181lb ft torque.
Two body variants offer between 3.3m³ and a class-leading 4.2m³ cargo space, with towing capacity up to 1,500kg. A crew cab option with fold-down seats adds flexibility for businesses needing to transport both people and cargo.
Mercedes eCitan
The eCitan shares its fundamental architecture with the Renault Kangoo, including the 121bhp motor, 45kWh battery and 186-mile range.
Where Mercedes differentiates is the cabin – featuring a unique steering wheel, dashboard trim and MBUX interface inspired by its passenger cars.
The premium badge and upgraded interior command a higher price, but stronger residual values may offset this advantage over the course of ownership.
Toyota Proace City Electric
Toyota’s compact electric van is based on Stellantis architecture, sharing technical specifications with the Peugeot E-Partner and several related models.
It features a responsive 136bhp motor with 199lb ft torque, powered by a 50kWh battery good for 213 miles. Fast charging capabilities reach 100kW.
Available in short or long-wheelbase versions with up to 4.4m³ cargo space and 759kg payload capacity. Toyota’s standout advantage is its 10-year warranty, providing valuable peace of mind for business operators.
Fiat E-Doblo
The E-Doblo represents one of several nearly identical Stellantis-based compact vans, alongside the Vauxhall Combo, Peugeot E-Partner and Citroen E-Berlingo.
All offer class-competitive load space and payload, with practical features like a load-through bulkhead and digital rear view mirror. Performance comes from a capable 134bhp motor with range exceeding 200 miles.
While we’ve highlighted the Fiat, any of its platform siblings could be equally suitable depending on pricing and dealer support.
Volkswagen ID Buzz Cargo
The ID Buzz Cargo stands apart from conventional vans, drawing inspiration from the iconic VW T2 microbus with a stronger emphasis on style than typical commercial vehicles.
Its payload is limited to under 600kg, but it still provides 3.9m³ of cargo space with sliding side doors and side-hinged rear doors.
The cab offers a more car-like environment while maintaining practical features. Performance comes from a powerful 282bhp motor and 79kWh battery delivering 276 miles range.
For businesses looking to make a visual statement, nothing else in the electric van market offers comparable curb appeal.
