Right then, builders! If you’re on the lookout for a new van and fancy ditching the diesel, you’ve come to the right place. Leasing a dropside van can be a smart move, especially with all the electric options popping up. We’ve had a look at some of the best ones hitting the market, so you can get a feel for what’s out there and maybe find your next workhorse. It’s all about finding something that fits the bill without breaking the bank, and with flexi lease options, it’s easier than ever to get sorted.
Key Takeaways
- Flexi lease deals offer a flexible way to get behind the wheel of a new dropside van, ideal for businesses with changing needs.
- Electric vans are becoming a strong contender, offering lower running costs and exemption from charges like ULEZ.
- Consider factors like payload, load capacity, and charging speed when choosing an electric dropside van for your trade.
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1. Ford E-Transit Custom
Right then, let’s talk about the Ford E-Transit Custom. If you’re after a van that’s pretty much the go-to for loads of businesses in the UK, this is it, but now with an electric twist. Ford’s been busy getting this one ready, and it’s set to start rolling off the production line soon, with the first ones expected to be out and about in early 2024. It looks like it’ll be able to handle just about anything you throw at it, boasting a load space of up to nine cubic meters and a payload capacity of 1100kg. Plus, if you need to tow something, it’s got a decent 2000kg towing capacity. The battery is a 75kWh unit, which should give you a range of over 235 miles based on WLTP figures. Charging-wise, it can take 125kW, meaning you can get from 15% to 85% in about 40 minutes, which isn’t too shabby. You’ve got a choice of two electric motors, either 133hp or 214hp, both giving you that instant electric power that makes vans feel really lively off the mark. One of the best bits, though? The inside. It’s packed with storage, including a big lidded cubby on the dashboard that’s perfect for stashing a laptop.
Key Features
- Electric Powertrain: Zero-emission running for lower running costs and environmental impact.
- Generous Load Space: Up to 9 cubic meters of cargo volume.
- Strong Payload: Capable of carrying up to 1100kg.
- Towing Ability: Can tow up to 2000kg.
- Fast Charging: 15-85% charge in around 40 minutes with a 125kW charger.
- Practical Interior: Plenty of storage solutions, including a laptop-friendly dashboard cubby.
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Performance and Range
| Motor Power | Estimated Range (WLTP) |
|---|---|
| 133hp | 235+ miles |
| 214hp | 235+ miles |
The E-Transit Custom seems to hit a sweet spot for businesses needing a reliable, capable electric van that doesn’t compromise too much on practicality or performance. Its range and charging speeds are competitive, and the thoughtful interior storage is a real bonus for day-to-day use.
2. Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
Right then, let’s talk about the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter. Now, this one’s a bit of an interesting case because the current model, which has only been around for a couple of years, is already set to be replaced by a new version. The upcoming eSprinter is going to be built on Mercedes’ new Electric Versatility Platform. This means they’re splitting the electrical bits into three modules and switching from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive.
What does that mean for you? Well, it should make it much easier to package and, importantly, it opens the door for a whole range of body styles. We’re talking long and short wheelbases, dropside pickups, and even ambulances – a big step up from the single model currently on offer. You’ll have three battery sizes to pick from, and they’re expecting the new eSprinter to go a good bit further than the current one’s 95 miles on a charge.
As you’d expect from Mercedes, the interiors are usually pretty plush. So, anticipate a decent-sized infotainment screen, likely featuring their MBUX system, voice activation, and a reversing camera as standard.
Key Features & Specs (Upcoming Model)
- Platform: Electric Versatility Platform
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive
- Battery Options: Three sizes available
- Range: Expected to exceed current 95 miles (WLTP)
- Interior: Likely to feature MBUX infotainment system
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What to Expect
The shift to a modular platform and rear-wheel drive is a smart move by Mercedes. It means more flexibility for different body types and potentially better weight distribution, which could improve the driving experience. Keep an eye out for this one, as it’s shaping up to be a significant update.
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 good idea of what you’re getting. It rocks a 44kWh battery, which should get you close to 200 miles on a single charge. That’s plenty for most of your day-to-day runs and even a few intercity hops, no problem.
Performance and Driving
When you put your foot down, you get a 121hp electric motor, and like most electric vans, all that power is there straight away. It’s got a single gear, so it drives much like an automatic, which is pretty easy going. The regenerative brakes are a neat touch too; they slow the van down a bit when you lift off the accelerator, meaning you’ll be using the actual brake pedal a lot less. It’s a really smooth and relaxed way to drive.
Practicality and Space
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, depending on how much gear you need to lug around, there’s likely an option that’ll fit the bill.
Key Features
- Shares underpinnings with Nissan Townstar and Mercedes-Benz Citan.
- 44kWh battery offering a range of nearly 200 miles.
- 121hp electric motor providing instant torque.
- Available in short and long wheelbase options.
- Load capacities of 3.3 or 4.2 cubic meters.
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The regenerative braking system is a real game-changer for city driving, helping to reduce wear on the brakes and making the whole experience feel more fluid.
4. Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo
Right then, let’s talk about the VW 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 advert, but with all the modern electric tech you’d expect. It’s not just a pretty face though; it’s a proper workhorse.
Load Space and Practicality
Inside, you get a decent load bay of 3.9 cubic meters, which is pretty good for its size. The floor is flat, and the wheel arches are tucked away neatly, making it easier to get stuff in and out. You’ve got a good-sized rear door and a sliding side door, so access is generally a doddle.
Performance and Range
Under the skin, it’s got a 77kWh battery, giving it a range of around 258 miles on the WLTP cycle. That’s more than enough for most daily jobs, and it’s one of the first electric vans that can genuinely do over 200 miles in real-world conditions. It’s powered by a 201hp electric motor, so it’s got plenty of zip, and it drives like an automatic, which is nice and easy.
Charging
When it does need a top-up, you can get it from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes if you find a fast charger. That’s not too shabby if you need to grab a quick charge during the day.
Driving Experience
It’s surprisingly nippy to drive, especially around town. The stubby nose and tight turning circle mean you can get it into some tight spots without too much fuss. It’s a really pleasant van to be behind the wheel of, which is always a bonus when you spend a lot of time working.
The ID. Buzz Cargo manages to blend iconic styling with practical electric van capabilities, making it a standout choice for those who want their work vehicle to have a bit of personality.
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.
Load Space and Practicality
The ETP3 offers a decent bit of space for its size, with a load capacity of 3.5 cubic meters. It’s not going to be hauling massive loads, but for general urban deliveries or smaller trade jobs, it should do the trick. The sliding doors on either side are a nice touch, making it easier to get to your gear, and the rear access is pretty straightforward too. Payload-wise, you’re looking at around 780kg, which is respectable for this class.
Performance and Range
Under the bonnet, you’ve got a 134hp electric motor, which gives it a bit of pep, especially when you’re loaded up. The automatic gearbox makes it a doddle to drive in traffic, which is a big plus for city work. As for range, BYD claims up to 170 miles on a single charge, which should be enough for most daily routes. Charging is also fairly quick; you can get a decent chunk of charge into its 45kWh battery in about 30 minutes if you find a fast charger.
Key Features
- Decent payload: Up to 780kg.
- Easy to drive: Automatic gearbox and responsive motor.
- Good access: Sliding side doors and easy rear access.
- Quick charging: Can get a substantial charge in around 30 minutes.
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The BYD ETP3 seems to be aiming for that sweet spot of value and practicality for urban van users. It’s not trying to be everything to everyone, but for its intended purpose, it looks like a solid contender.
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’s so small it barely looks like one. If your business is all about zipping around town for tiny deliveries, this might just be your cup of tea.
What’s it like to drive?
Honestly, don’t expect to be setting any speed records. Its top speed is capped at a rather leisurely 28mph, and the range isn’t much to shout about either, clocking in at under 50 miles. But, and it’s a big but, it’s incredibly nimble. It’s got a turning circle that’s tighter than a politician’s promise, making it a doddle to manoeuvre in tight city streets. Parking? A dream. It’s shorter than a Smart ForTwo, so finding a spot is never an issue.
Load space and practicality
This is where things get a bit tight. The load bay is only 400 litres, which is smaller than the boot in most family cars. It also means there’s no passenger seat – it’s strictly a single-seater. So, if you need to carry a mate or any significant amount of gear, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Key Features
- Ultra-compact dimensions for city driving.
- Extremely tight turning circle.
- Simple, no-frills operation.
- Low running costs (being electric).
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Is it for you?
The AMI Cargo is a very specific tool for a very specific job. Think of it as a mobile advertising board or a nippy way to deliver small parcels across a city centre. It’s not for long journeys or carrying much, but for urban agility, it’s certainly unique.
7. Maxus T90EV
Right then, let’s talk about the Maxus T90EV. This one’s a bit different from the usual panel vans we’ve been looking at, as it’s actually an electric pickup truck. Maxus, a Chinese outfit, has put together a pretty solid offering here, aiming to make electric pickups more accessible.
It’s kitted out with a decent-sized 88.5kWh battery, which should give you a range of around 220 miles on the WLTP cycle. That’s not too shabby for a pickup, and it means you can probably get through a good chunk of your week without needing to plug it in constantly. When you do need to charge, a fast DC charger can get you from 20% to 80% in about 45 minutes.
Under the bonnet, you’ve got a 204hp electric motor driving the rear wheels, which gives it a bit of get-up-and-go. It can also carry a payload of up to 1000kg, which is pretty handy if you’ve got a fair bit of gear to shift.
What’s interesting about the T90EV is that Maxus has chucked in a load of standard kit to make it feel a bit more premium, especially when you consider the price point compared to petrol or diesel pickups. You get a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, electric seats, air con, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, and even some smart 17-inch alloys.
Key Features:
- Battery: 88.5kWh
- 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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Standard Equipment Highlights:
- 10.25-inch infotainment screen
- Electrically adjustable seats
- Air conditioning
- Rear parking sensors and reversing camera
- 17-inch alloy wheels
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While it’s a pickup and not a van, the T90EV’s blend of electric power, decent range, and generous standard equipment makes it a noteworthy contender if your work involves hauling and you’re keen on going electric. It’s a bit of a different beast, but definitely worth a look.
8. Mercedes-Benz eCitan
Right then, let’s talk about the Mercedes-Benz eCitan. If you’re after something that feels a bit more premium for your city deliveries, this could be your chap. It’s basically built on the regular Citan, so it’s got that familiar feel, but with an electric twist.
It’s got a 134hp electric motor driving the front wheels, which makes it feel pretty zippy off the mark. You can get it up to 80mph, so nipping between towns isn’t completely out of the question. What’s quite neat is the driving modes; you can tweak how the throttle responds and how light the steering feels. Plus, the regenerative braking has three settings, meaning you can often get away with just using one pedal for most of your driving.
Range and Charging
Interior and Practicality
Driving Experience
When it comes to range, you’re looking at about 170 miles on the WLTP cycle. Charging up from 10% to 80% should take around 45 minutes if you’ve got a 75kW charger handy.
Inside, it feels a bit posher than your average workhorse. You get a floating infotainment screen and air vents that look like they’ve come straight out of one of their fancy cars. You can get it in a few different set-ups, with a maximum load space of 2.9 cubic meters.
The eCitan is a solid choice for urban driving, offering a comfortable ride and decent tech for the price point.
9. Radar RD6 Electric Pick-Up
Right then, let’s talk about the Radar RD6 Electric Pick-Up. Now, this one’s a bit different from your usual panel vans, isn’t it? It’s a pick-up truck, and it’s electric. Radar Auto might not be a name you recognise straight away, but they’re part of Geely, which is a pretty big deal – they own Volvo and Lotus, among others. So, this isn’t some fly-by-night operation.
What’s the Deal with the RD6?
The RD6 is Radar Auto’s first model, and it’s aiming to shake things up a bit. You get your standard pick-up truck bed, which is handy for all sorts of loads, but they’ve also added a bit of extra storage space under the bonnet. Think of it as a frunk – useful for keeping your tools or shopping separate from whatever muddy stuff you’ve got in the back. It’s a neat idea, really.
Specs to Look Out For
While exact details are still a bit fuzzy, we know you’ll be able to get it with either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, which is good to know if you’re tackling trickier terrain. The battery should be around 78kWh, giving you a range of about 200 miles. And for those times you need a top-up, it’s supposed to be able to charge from 10% to 80% in roughly 30 minutes with a fast charger. That’s pretty decent for a pick-up.
Why Consider an Electric Pick-Up?
- Lower Running Costs: Like all electric vehicles, you’ll save a packet on fuel compared to a diesel pick-up.
- Quieter Drive: Electric motors are much quieter than combustion engines, making long days on the road a bit more pleasant.
- Less Maintenance: Fewer moving parts in an electric powertrain generally means less to go wrong and fewer trips to the garage.
- Environmental Benefits: Zero tailpipe emissions are always a plus, especially if you’re working in low-emission zones.
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This pick-up is definitely one to watch if you need something a bit more versatile than a van but still want to go electric. It’s a bit of a departure from the norm, but that’s not always a bad thing.
It’s still early days for the RD6, and we’re waiting on confirmation for payload and exact load capacity figures, but it’s shaping up to be an interesting option in the electric commercial vehicle market.
10. Ford Transit Custom Tipper
Right then, let’s talk about the Ford Transit Custom Tipper. While the E-Transit Custom is getting all the electric buzz, Ford hasn’t forgotten about us petrol and diesel users, especially those who need to shift some serious muck. The Transit Custom Tipper is basically your trusty workhorse, but with a tipper body fitted, making it a proper game-changer for anyone in groundwork, landscaping, or general building.
What’s the Deal with the Tipper Body?
This isn’t just any old Transit; it’s kitted out to make your life easier. The tipper mechanism lets you dump loads of gravel, soil, or rubble with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of van that just gets the job done, day in, day out. You’re looking at a robust build that can handle the rough and tumble of a building site, and with various configurations available, you can tailor it to your specific needs.
Key Features and Specs
While the exact specs can vary depending on the specific model and trim you go for (think Leader, Trend, or Limited), here’s what you can generally expect:
- Payload: These vans are built to carry weight, so expect payloads that can easily handle a tonne or more, depending on the configuration.
- Engine Options: You’ll find a range of reliable Ford EcoBlue diesel engines, offering a good balance of power and efficiency for hauling.
- Cab Comfort: Ford Transit cabs are known for being pretty comfortable and practical. You’ll often find features like:
- Air conditioning
- Cruise control
- DAB radio
- Smartphone integration (like Apple CarPlay)
- Body Styles: Beyond the tipper, you can often find these in various lengths and heights (L2 H2, L3 H3, etc.) and also as dropsides or Lutons, giving you plenty of choice.
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Who’s It For?
This van is a no-brainer for tradespeople who regularly need to move materials. Think:
- Builders
- Groundworkers
- Landscapers
- Roofers
- Anyone who needs to shift bulk materials quickly and efficiently.
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The beauty of the Transit Custom Tipper is its versatility. It’s not just about carrying stuff; it’s about making the unloading process as simple as possible, saving you time and effort on site. It’s a proper tool for the trade.
Looking for a tough van for your business? The Ford Transit Custom Tipper is a brilliant choice. It’s built to handle heavy loads and make your work easier. Whether you’re moving building supplies or garden waste, this van is up to the task. Fancy seeing one for yourself? Check out our range of Ford Transit Custom Tippers on our website today!
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 bigger beast for hauling materials, there’s definitely an electric option out there that’ll fit the bill. Going electric might seem like a big step, but with the savings on fuel and the smooth drive, it’s really worth considering. Plus, with flexi lease, you get that flexibility without being tied down long-term. So, have a think about what you need your van for, check out the options, and get ready to make the switch. It could be a game-changer for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I bother with an electric van?
Loads of them! Electric vans are brilliant because they’re cheaper to run than petrol or diesel ones. You save cash on ‘fuel’ and you don’t have to pay charges like the London Congestion Charge or ULEZ. Plus, they’re quiet and smooth to drive, making your day a bit easier.
Can electric vans really go far enough for my business?
It really depends on the van, but many can get you a good distance on a single charge, often over 200 miles. And if you need to top up, most can get a big chunk of charge back in under an hour at a fast charger. So, nipping around town or even doing longer trips is totally doable.
What’s this ‘flexi lease’ thing all about?
Flexi lease is a super handy way to get a van without a massive upfront cost. You pick how long you want it for (like 3, 6, or 12 months) and how many miles you’ll do. They sort out the road tax and servicing, and if it breaks down, you get a replacement. It’s great for new businesses or if you just need a van for a bit.
