Builder’s Guide: Best Drop-Side Vans on Flexi Lease

Right then, fancy a new van but not sure where to start with all the electric options out there? Especially if you need something with a dropside body for all your gear. It can feel a bit much, can’t it? We’ve had a look at what’s coming up and put together a quick guide to some of the best dropside van lease options that might just tick your boxes. Whether you’re after something for city runs or hauling bigger loads, there’s a fair bit to consider.

Key Takeaways

• Electric vans are becoming a really sensible choice, especially with fuel prices and charges like the ULEZ. You can save a good bit of cash on running costs.
• There’s a growing range of electric vans available, from small city-friendly ones to larger pickups and custom builds, meaning you can find one that fits your specific trade needs.
• Leasing a dropside van, particularly an electric one, can be a smart way to manage costs and get access to the latest technology without a huge upfront payment.

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1. Ford E-Transit Custom

Right then, let’s talk about the Ford E-Transit Custom. If you’ve ever seen a van on UK roads, chances are it was a Transit of some sort. Ford’s really gone all-in with the electric version of their best-seller, and it’s shaping up to be a proper contender. They’re aiming for it to be ready for pretty much anything you can throw at it, which is good news. You’re looking at a load capacity of up to nine cubic meters, which is decent, and it can carry about 1100kg. Plus, it can tow up to two tonnes, which is handy if you need to shift something extra. The battery is a 75kWh unit, and Ford reckons you’ll get over 235 miles out of it on a full charge, which is a solid figure for most jobs. Charging-wise, it can take 125kW, meaning you can get from 15% to 85% in about 40 minutes if you find a fast enough charger. You’ve got a choice of two electric motors, either 133hp or 214hp, both giving you that instant electric shove, so it shouldn’t feel sluggish even when loaded up. One of the best bits, though, is the inside. Ford’s packed it with storage, including a big lidded spot on the dashboard that’s perfect for a laptop or your lunch.

Key Specs

What to Expect

• Good all-round capability: It’s designed to handle a variety of tasks, from urban deliveries to longer runs.
• Plenty of power: The electric motors offer instant torque, making it feel lively.
• Smart storage solutions: The cabin is designed with practicality in mind, with lots of places to stash your gear.
• Fast charging: Get back on the road quickly with its rapid charging capabilities.

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Ford seems to have thought about what people actually need in a van with the E-Transit Custom. It’s not just about being electric; it’s about being a practical, capable workhorse that happens to be electric.

2. Mercedes-Benz eSprinter

Right then, let’s talk about the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter. Now, this one’s a bit of an interesting case. The current model, which has only been around for a couple of years, is already set to be replaced by a new version based on Mercedes’ Electric Versatility Platform. This new platform sounds pretty clever, splitting the electric bits into three modules and switching from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive. This means they can actually offer a proper range of body styles, not just the one we’ve got now. We’re talking long-wheelbase, short-wheelbase, even dropside pickups and ambulances – a far cry from the current setup.

What to Expect from the New eSprinter

• More Battery Options: You’ll get your pick of three different battery sizes, which should mean a decent jump in range. The current model only manages about 95 miles, so anything more than that will be a welcome improvement.
• Improved Range: While official figures aren’t out yet, the expectation is that the new eSprinter will easily beat the current 95-mile range.
• Plush Interior: Mercedes usually nails the van interiors, and this one should be no different. Expect a big infotainment screen, the MBUX operating system with voice control, and a handy reversing camera as standard.

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The move to a new platform is a big deal for the eSprinter. It’s not just about a bit more range; it’s about making the van more adaptable for different jobs and body types, which is exactly what you want from a workhorse like this.

The new eSprinter is shaping up to be a proper step forward, especially with the flexibility the new platform offers. It’s definitely one to keep an eye on if you’re after a larger electric van.

3. Renault Kangoo e-Tech

Right then, let’s talk about the Renault Kangoo e-Tech. It’s basically sharing a lot of its bits and bobs with the Nissan Townstar and the Mercedes-Benz Citan, so you’ve got a pretty solid foundation there. It rocks a 44kWh battery, which should get you close to 200 miles on a single charge. That’s plenty for most city hops and even some longer runs between towns, really.

When you drive it, it feels pretty nippy for a van. The 121hp electric motor gives you all its power straight away, and with just one gear, it drives like an automatic. You’ll also notice the regenerative brakes – they slow the van down a bit when you lift off the accelerator, meaning you hardly ever need to touch the actual brake pedal. Saves a bit of wear and tear, I suppose.

Load Space and Practicality

You can get the Kangoo e-Tech in a couple of different sizes, short or long wheelbase. The short one gives you about 3.3 cubic meters of space, while the longer version ups that to 4.2 cubic meters. So, you can pick the one that best suits how much stuff you usually need to carry.

Range and Charging

• Range: Expect around 200 miles from the 44kWh battery.
• Charging: While specific charging times aren’t detailed here, it’s built on platforms that generally support decent charging speeds for its class.
• Performance: A 121hp motor provides instant torque, making it feel responsive.

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The Kangoo e-Tech is a sensible choice if you’re after a reliable electric van that’s easy to drive and offers a decent amount of cargo space for its size. It’s not the flashiest, but it gets the job done.

4. Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo

Right then, let’s talk about the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo. If you’re after a van that’s got serious retro cool, this is it. It looks like it’s rolled straight out of a 70s catalogue, but with all the modern electric tech you’d expect. It’s not just a pretty face though; it’s a proper workhorse too.

Load Space and Practicality

The Buzz Cargo offers a decent load bay, coming in at 3.9 cubic meters. It’s got a flat floor and the wheel arches are tucked away neatly, which makes getting stuff in and out a bit easier. You get a good-sized rear door and a sliding side door, so access is pretty straightforward. It can handle a payload of up to 752kg, which is respectable for its size.

Range and Charging

Under the skin, it’s packing a 77kWh battery, giving it a WLTP range of around 258 miles. That’s pretty good for an electric van and should cover most daily routes without issue. Plus, it supports fast charging, meaning you can get from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes if you find a rapid charger. This van is one of the first electric light commercials that can genuinely do over 200 miles in the real world.

Driving Experience

Driving the ID. Buzz Cargo is a doddle. It’s got a 201hp electric motor, so it pulls away instantly and feels quite nippy. It drives like an automatic, which is always a plus for ease of use. Its compact dimensions and tight turning circle make it surprisingly easy to manoeuvre, even in tight city streets.

Key Features

• Retro-inspired styling
• 77kWh battery for up to 258 miles (WLTP) range
• 3.9 cubic meter load bay
• 752kg payload capacity
• Fast charging capability (30 mins for 10-80%)
• Easy to drive with automatic-like transmission

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While it might be the coolest van on the block, it’s worth remembering that its load capacity isn’t the biggest out there. It’s more suited for tradespeople or businesses that don’t need to haul massive amounts of gear on a daily basis.

5. BYD ETP3

Right then, let’s talk about the BYD ETP3. This one’s been a bit of a slow burner in terms of its UK arrival, but it’s shaping up to be a pretty decent option, especially if you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank compared to some of the European rivals. It’s not the biggest van out there, mind you.

Key Specs

What’s it like to drive?

For city driving, it’s actually quite a doddle. The automatic gearbox makes things nice and relaxed, and that 134hp motor gives it a bit of pep when you’ve got it loaded up. It’s got regenerative braking too, which helps squeeze out that bit more range. It feels like a sensible choice for urban deliveries.

Practicality Check

Access is pretty good, with sliding doors on both sides and decent rear access, which is always a plus when you’re trying to load and unload quickly. It’s designed to make the most of its space, so getting stuff in and out shouldn’t be a massive headache.

While it might not have the flashiest badge, the BYD ETP3 seems to be aiming for good value and solid performance for everyday tasks. It’s worth a look if you’re comparing electric vans.

6. Citroen AMI Cargo

Right then, let’s talk about the Citroen AMI Cargo. Now, this little thing is a bit of a curveball, isn’t it? It’s technically a van, but it looks more like something you’d zip around a golf course in. Don’t let its size fool you, though; it’s designed for a very specific job. If your daily grind involves nipping around the city centre for small deliveries, this could actually be a surprisingly practical choice.

Key Features

• Tiny Footprint: We’re talking seriously small here. It’s shorter than a Smart ForTwo, which makes parking an absolute doddle. You’ll be able to squeeze into spots that other vans wouldn’t even dream of.
• Manoeuvrability: Its turning circle is tighter than a duck’s… well, you get the idea. It’s incredibly agile in tight urban spaces.
• Electric Power: Being fully electric means no worries about ULEZ charges or congestion charges, which is a big plus for city-based businesses.

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Load Space and Practicality

This is where things get a bit more interesting, and perhaps a bit limiting. The AMI Cargo has a load bay that’s about 400 litres. To put that into perspective, it’s smaller than the boot in many family cars. It also means it’s strictly a single-seater, as the passenger space has been converted into cargo room. So, if you need to carry a mate or a second set of tools, this isn’t the van for you.

Performance and Range

Let’s be clear: the AMI Cargo isn’t built for speed or distance. Its top speed is capped at a rather leisurely 28mph, and the range is under 50 miles. This is purely a city-slicker, designed for short hops and local deliveries. Think of it as a mobile shop front or a courier vehicle for a very small radius.

While it might seem a bit quirky, the AMI Cargo’s unique design and electric powertrain make it a potentially cost-effective solution for businesses operating exclusively within congested urban environments where parking and emissions are major concerns.

7. Maxus T90EV

Next up, we’ve got the Maxus T90EV, which is a bit of a different beast compared to some of the others on this list. It’s an electric pickup truck, so if you’re after something that can handle a bit more rugged work or just prefer the style, this could be your ticket.

Maxus T90EV: The Electric Pickup Option

Maxus is a Chinese company that’s been making commercial vehicles, and the T90EV is their stab at an electric pickup. Underneath its pretty standard-looking pickup body, there’s an 88.5kWh battery. This gives it a range of about 220 miles, which is pretty decent for a pickup. If you need to top it up, a fast charger can get it from 20% to 80% in around 45 minutes. It’s powered by a 204hp electric motor at the back, which gives it a bit of get-up-and-go and means it can carry up to 1000kg.

Now, it might seem a bit pricey compared to a regular petrol or diesel pickup, but Maxus has tried to make it worth your while by chucking in a load of standard kit. You get a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, seats that adjust electrically, air con, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and some rather smart 17-inch alloy wheels, all included as standard.

It’s a solid choice if you need the utility of a pickup but want to go electric.

• Range: Up to 220 miles (WLTP)
• Payload: Up to 1000kg
• Charging: 20-80% in 45 mins (DC fast charge)
• Motor: 204hp rear-wheel drive

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8. Mercedes-Benz eCitan

Right then, let’s talk about the Mercedes-Benz eCitan. If you’re mostly doing city runs and need something a bit more upmarket than your average workhorse, this could be your chap. It’s basically the electric version of the already pretty decent Citan van.

Performance and Range

Under the bonnet, it’s got a 134hp electric motor driving the front wheels. It feels quite zippy when you pull away, and with a top speed of 80mph, it’s not going to hold you back on the odd trip between towns. You can fiddle with the driving modes to tweak the throttle response and steering feel, which is a nice touch. Plus, the regenerative braking has three settings, meaning you can get pretty handy with one-pedal driving. Mercedes reckon you’ll get about 170 miles on a charge (that’s the WLTP figure), and if you find a 75kW charger, you can get from 10% to 80% in around 45 minutes. Not too shabby for getting back out there.

Interior and Practicality

Inside, it feels a bit posher than you might expect from a van. You get a floating infotainment screen and air vents that look like they’ve come straight out of one of their fancy cars. It’s available in a few different set-ups, with the maximum load space coming in at 2.9 cubic meters. It also comes standard with rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and some rather smart 17-inch alloy wheels.

While it’s not the biggest van on the block, its compact size and electric powertrain make it a really sensible choice for urban deliveries where you need to be nimble and quiet.

9. Radar RD6 Electric Pick-Up

Right then, let’s talk about the Radar RD6 Electric Pick-Up. Now, you might not have heard of Radar Auto, but don’t let that put you off. They’re actually part of Geely, the big Chinese outfit that owns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, so there’s some serious backing there. This is their first stab at a pickup truck, and they’re doing things a bit differently.

It’s got the usual pickup bed, obviously, but the really neat bit is the extra storage space you get under the bonnet. Handy for keeping your lunchbox or tools away from any muddy stuff you’re hauling in the back. They haven’t confirmed all the exact specs yet, but you’ll be able to get it with either two or four-wheel drive. Expect a battery size of up to 78kWh, which should give you around 200 miles of range. Plus, it’ll do the 10-80% fast charge thing in about half an hour, which is pretty decent.

Key Features

• Geely Group backing – so it’s not some fly-by-night operation.
• Front storage compartment – a clever addition for keeping things clean.
• Choice of 2WD or 4WD – depending on what you need.
• Fast charging capability – get back on the road quickly.

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What to Expect

While payload and bed capacity figures are still a bit up in the air, the RD6 looks like it could be a really interesting option for anyone needing a versatile electric workhorse. The combination of a familiar pickup format with some smart, modern touches makes it one to watch.

It’s definitely one to keep an eye on as more details emerge.

10. Ford Transit Tipper

Right then, let’s talk about the Ford Transit Tipper. While the E-Transit Custom is getting all the electric buzz, Ford’s got a solid offering for those who still need the raw power and versatility of a traditional tipper van. These are the workhorses that get the heavy stuff moved, whether it’s soil, gravel, or rubble.

The Transit Tipper is a proper no-nonsense machine built for demanding jobs. It’s the kind of van you see on building sites day in, day out, and for good reason. They’re tough, reliable, and can be kitted out to suit a whole range of trades.

Key Features and Specs

When you’re looking at a Transit Tipper, you’ll find a few different configurations available, usually depending on the specific model year and trim level. You’re generally looking at:

• Engine Options: Typically powered by Ford’s robust diesel engines, offering plenty of torque for hauling heavy loads. Think 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesels, often with a few power outputs to choose from.
• Payload Capacity: This is where the tipper shines. Expect payloads that can easily handle a tonne, sometimes pushing towards 1.5 tonnes or more, depending on the exact configuration and chassis.
• Towing Capacity: Most Transit Tippers will also offer a decent towing capacity, usually around the 2,000kg to 3,500kg mark, meaning you can bring a trailer along too.
• Body Styles: While we’re focusing on the tipper body, remember that the Transit platform itself comes in various lengths and heights (like L2, L3, H2, H3), which can affect the overall load space behind the cab.

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Why Choose a Transit Tipper?

There are a few solid reasons why a Transit Tipper remains a popular choice for tradespeople:

• Durability: These vans are built to last. They can take a beating and keep on going, which is exactly what you need when you’re working on rough sites.
• Versatility: The tipper function itself is a game-changer for moving bulk materials. Plus, with the standard Transit cab, you’ve got a comfortable place to spend your working day.
• Parts and Support: Being a Ford Transit, parts are readily available, and there’s a massive network of garages that can service them. This means less downtime, which is always a win.

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What to Look For on Flexi Lease

When you’re browsing flexi lease options for a Transit Tipper, keep an eye out for:

• Trim Levels: You’ll often see Leader, Trend, or Limited specs. Trend usually offers a good balance of comfort and practicality, while Limited might add more creature comforts.
• Body Lengths: L2, L3, L4 refer to the chassis length, which impacts the overall size of the van. For a tipper, you might find L3 or L4 more common to maximise the tipper bed size.
• Included Features: Check for things like air conditioning (a must!), cruise control for longer journeys, parking sensors, and maybe even Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for better connectivity.

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While electric vans are the future, for certain heavy-duty tasks like tipping, the sheer practicality and established reliability of a diesel Transit Tipper still make it a top contender for many businesses. It’s a van that’s designed to work as hard as you do.

Looking for a sturdy Ford Transit Tipper? These vans are brilliant for shifting all sorts of loads, from garden waste to building supplies. They’re tough and reliable, making them a top choice for many jobs. If you need to move heavy things easily, a tipper van is the way to go. Fancy learning more about our tipper van options? Check out our website for all the details!

So, What’s the Verdict?

Right then, we’ve had a good look at some of the top drop-side vans you can get on flexi lease right now. Whether you’re after something nippy for city jobs or a bit more grunt for heavier work, there’s definitely something out there to suit. Going electric makes a lot of sense these days, not just for the planet but for your wallet too, with cheaper running costs and fewer charges to worry about. So, have a think about what you really need your van for, check out the options, and get yourself sorted with a lease that works for your business. It’s a smart move, really.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I think about getting an electric van?

Loads of them! Electric vans are way cheaper to run because electricity is usually less pricey than petrol or diesel. Plus, you get to skip charges like the London Congestion Charge and ULEZ, which can save you a pretty penny. They’re also generally nicer to drive – quieter, smoother, and with instant power, making them a doddle in town.

Is it a pain to charge an electric van?

Don’t worry too much about running out of juice! Most of these new electric vans can be charged up really quickly. You can often get almost a full charge in less than an hour using a fast public charger, so popping in for a coffee can mean you’re ready to go again.

Are there different types of electric vans available?

Absolutely! There’s a massive variety hitting the market. You’ve got everything from the familiar Ford E-Transit Custom, which is great for all sorts of jobs, to the super-tiny Citroen AMI Cargo for nipping around the city. There are even some funky electric pickup trucks like the Radar RD6 if you need something a bit different.