Vauxhall Vivaro Electric Panel Van Review

The Vivaro has always offered choice to those who pick it, and that is still true with the electric version. In panel van format, it’s available in two body lengths although just one roof height, and it’s also available in Crew Van and platform-chassis versions. Its load volume is the same as the diesel with up to 6.6m3 available to hold up to 1000kg of payload. Standard vans have a total length of 4959mm allowing L1 models to transport loads measuring 2512mm in length, and 2862mm for the longer length L2.

The inside has been substantially revamped with a new 10-inch infotainment and navigation system, more impressive is the 10-inch digital instrument cluster that contains all the data you’ll like to keep an eye on, including battery charge and range. If you like to use voice commands there’s natural voice recognition activated by saying “Hey Vauxhall”, and wireless smartphone mirroring for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s plenty of space with a revised storage layout that has slightly increased the size of some of the storage compartments and adding a cooled glovebox for your sandwiches. There’s a new multi-function (optionally) heated steering wheel with controls for infotainment and telephones, as well as the new paddle shifters for the regenerative braking function.

Charging the Vivaro Electric will certainly be cheaper than refuelling its diesel equivalent if you stay away from the ultra-expensive rapid chargers on the motorway network, but you’ll get a lot less range from a full charge. It has a claimed range of 217 miles for the 75kWh battery. It’s also still nearly double the price of a diesel van at just over £42,000. However, that does come down to £37,805 with the current plug-in van grant, and you could easily split that cost into manageable monthly payments if you financed or leased it.

Vauxhall has been topping the sales charts ever since the electric Vivaro was launched. During that time there haven’t been any significant issues except for a minor niggle with the air conditioning units in some vans. It’s proven to be a reliable runner with no battery or powertrain issues thus far.

Despite the numbers remaining the same for the second-generation van, there’s been a complete overhaul of the electric driveline. New composition for the battery, as well as the electrical architecture and motor, have all resulted in slight improvements to the Vivaro Electric. Power remains at 100kW (136hp) with 260Nm of torque, but the 75kWh battery is now capable of 217 miles rather than 205 miles. Performance when laden is acceptable for a mid-sized van with a decent level of power and torque. It’s also enough to tow a small trailer, which you don’t find with all electric vehicles. Unladen, it flies off the line and doesn’t stop all the way to its 80mph top speed.

Even with plenty of upgrades, one thing that hasn’t needed to change is the Vivaro Electric’s handling and ride comfort. It’s always been first-rate with precise steering and well-mannered ride. The driving experience is further enhanced by the addition of the steering wheel-mounted paddles to control the three levels of regenerative braking. The first mode allows a good level of coasting, while the second applies a more meaningful amount of braking. The third, and most severe mode, is enough to bring the van to almost a complete stop without touching the brakes. It’s a big upgrade from the previous system which was either on or off.

There are an impressive 18 driver assistance and safety systems with rear parking sensors, intelligent speed assistance, lane keep assist and driver attention alert all standard. Additional systems include Dynamic Surround View to help with parking, blind spot assistant and adaptive cruise control. It’s a comprehensive offering for anyone with an eye on safety.

The Vivaro Electric comes in two trim levels, Prime and Pro. The 10-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring is standard on all vans along with a digital instrument cluster, rear parking sensors and all the standard safety systems mentioned above. Not a huge amount on the base level van, but Pro trim adds a bucket load of better kit with even more safety systems, most notable of which is the Dynamic Surround View with digital rear view mirror and passenger side camera. Also, satellite navigation, LED headlights and a FlexCargo load-through bulkhead are available.

A good range, high levels of practicality and a respectable payload are all huge pluses for the Vivaro Electric. The sales figures speak volumes, and the fact that it’s been Britain’s best-selling electric van for a while now (although with the electric Transit Custom coming soon there might be some competition on the horizon) means that it’s hitting all the right spots with the people that matter the most, van buyers. Admittedly, the higher up-front purchase price for an electric version of a van that excels in diesel form might make people think twice but give this a go. As a first step onto the electric ladder, an electric version of a familiar and high-performing van is a logical choice to make.