VAUXHALL has released the first pictures of the Vivaro-e, its first factory-built, fully-electric van, set to arrive in the market as more and more UK cities welcome emissions-free vehicles.

Built on the same line as the diesel-engined Vivaro, and available to order from June in two lengths and two body variants, the new battery electric Vivaro-e enables business users to benefit from uncompromised zero-emission, door-to-door mobility.

Far from being a compromised ‘final-mile’ solution for delivery drivers, Vauxhall’s Vivaro-e has a range of 205 miles on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) cycle, meaning that multi-drop deliveries around large towns and cities on a single charge will become a reality for British business users.

While the Vivaro-e is as versatile and flexible as any other Vivaro, its payload of up to 1,226kgs is also comparable to that of similar LCVs with internal combustion engines. In fact, the load it can carry is only 130kgs less than a Vivaro fitted with a diesel engine. The Vivaro-e is also the only electrified vehicle in its segment that has the ability to pull trailers (with a maximum towing capacity of 1.0 tonne).

Vivaro-e customers can choose between two sizes of lithium-ion battery, depending on their needs. A 75kWh unit provides up to 205 miles of range, while business users with smaller areas to cover in the working day can opt for a 50kWh battery with a range of up to 143 miles (both WLTP test cycle).

With 100kW (136PS) and 260Nm of torque from the electric propulsion system, the Vivaro-e offers better performance than most electric commercial vehicles. The electronically controlled maximum speed of 81mph means adhering to speed limits on UK motorways can be achieved with ease, while preserving the electric range. The battery located under the load compartment also lowers the centre of gravity, which benefits the cornering and stability of the Vivaro-e, even when it is fully laden.

The Vivaro-e is as easy to charge as it is to use. Via wall box, fast charging or even a cable for charging from a domestic plug socket if necessary, every Vivaro-e is ready for a variety of charging options.

Using a 100kW DC public charging station, charging of the 50kWh battery to 80 per cent only takes 30 minutes – and 45 minutes for the 75 kWh battery.

The Vivaro-e will be available to order from June with first deliveries in the autumn

The next electric Vauxhall LCV, the Combo-e, will arrive in 2021. Vauxhall will offer an electrified version of every passenger car and LCV model by 2024.