Volkswagen e-Transporter Review: Electric Van Performance & Features

Volkswagen Transporter Goes Electric in Seventh Generation

The seventh-generation Volkswagen Transporter has undergone a significant transformation, sharing underpinnings with the Ford Transit Custom. This collaboration marks a first for the Transporter line, though the two companies have previously partnered on the Volkswagen Amarok (based on Ford Ranger) and Ford Transit Connect (rebadged Volkswagen Caddy).

This platform-sharing approach may actually benefit customers, as the Transit Custom is widely regarded as the benchmark in the medium van sector.

The new Transporter is currently available as short or long-wheelbase panel vans, with Kombi, Shuttle, and double-cab variants coming later this year. A plug-in hybrid will join the lineup in 2026.

The all-electric e-Transporter represents Volkswagen’s first serious battery-electric offering in this segment, playing a crucial role in the brand’s electrification strategy.

Design, Interior and Technology

The e-Transporter maintains Volkswagen’s corporate identity with familiar styling elements including the ‘Bulli line’ crease and short overhangs, despite its Ford underpinnings.

Inside, the cabin blends Ford practicality with Volkswagen refinement. The Germans have added their own digital driver’s display and steering wheel, along with a reshaped 13-inch infotainment touchscreen running Volkswagen-styled Ford software.

Physical buttons for essential functions remain intact – a practical consideration for tradespeople wearing gloves and an improvement over competitors that bury basic controls in touchscreen menus.

Storage options are generous throughout the cabin. Features include a dash-top compartment, three-level door bins, and a covered glovebox across all trim levels – the latter only available on higher-grade Transit Custom models. Most variants come with three front seats, with a flat floor allowing easy movement across the cabin.

Battery, Motor and Performance

All e-Transporter models feature a 64kWh lithium-ion battery delivering a WLTP range between 192 and 201 miles depending on specification. Real-world range will likely be 150-170 miles based on load, driving style and weather conditions. Testing showed approximately 2.8 miles per kWh in mixed conditions, suggesting about 179 miles from a full charge with an empty van.

The e-Transporter comes in 134bhp or 215bhp versions, both producing 317lb ft of torque and achieving 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds – significantly quicker than any diesel variant. The more powerful model reaches a higher top speed of 93mph but offers little additional benefit for typical use cases.

Ride comfort is notable thanks to the low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension, though an empty van still transmits some road imperfections. The rear-wheel drive configuration improves traction when lightly loaded, complemented by standard all-season tires.

Charging capabilities are competitive with 125kW DC rapid charging taking approximately 40 minutes to go from 10-80%, adding up to 140 miles of range. AC charging tops out at 11kW, suitable for overnight depot charging.

Payload and Practicality

Load space matches diesel models with 5.8m³ in short-wheelbase and 6.8m³ in long-wheelbase versions. Load lengths are 2,602mm and 3,002mm respectively, with an additional 448mm available via the under-seat load-through hatch. The space between wheel arches accommodates a Euro pallet, and the 198cm height allows access to most car parks.

Payload ranges from 1,013kg to 1,088kg – slightly less than diesel variants but still competitive for an electric van.

The e-Transporter offers class-leading towing capacity at 2,300kg – more than double what the Vauxhall Vivaro Electric can manage.

Bright LED lighting illuminates the cargo area, and optional 230V sockets (up to 2,300W) in the load bay enable on-site tool charging or powering equipment between jobs. Access comes via a nearside sliding door (offside door optional) and traditional twin rear doors.

Price and Specification

Prices start at £41,965 (excluding VAT) for base models, rising to £48,705 for higher specifications, with the Plug-in Van Grant reducing these figures by £5,000.

The e-Transporter includes Volkswagen’s 5+ Promise: five services, two MOTs, five years of roadside assistance, and a five-year/124,000-mile warranty – significantly better than Ford’s standard three-year coverage.

Surprisingly, the e-Transporter undercuts the e-Transit Custom, which starts at £43,380.

Two trim levels are available. Commerce Plus includes heated seats, LED headlights, body-colored trim, cruise control, parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Commerce Pro adds 16-inch alloys, adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, heated windscreen, and wireless phone charging. All models feature the 12-inch driver display and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.

Verdict

The e-Transporter delivers where it matters most despite not being a pure Volkswagen underneath. It drives well, comes well-equipped, and offers competitive practicality.

While it may lack some of the configurability of previous Transporters, the improvements in driveability, safety, and running costs make up for it. The Ford underpinnings haven’t diminished its appeal – they may have enhanced it.

It stands as one of the most complete electric vans available today, with the comprehensive 5+ Promise potentially being the deciding factor for many buyers.

Volkswagen e-Transporter Commerce Pro LWB