LEVC (London Electric Vehicle Company) has announced a new partnership with Europcar Mobility Group UK – one of the UK’s leading commercial vehicle rental providers – supplying a fleet of 100 new VN5 electric vans. The vehicles will be made available across Europcar’s nationwide rental locations in the UK.
VN5, based on LEVC’s electric version of the iconic London black taxi, incorporates eCity range extender technology, which comprises an advanced battery electric powertrain offering a pure electric range of 100km, together with a small backup petrol range-extender increasing total range to over 500km.
Designed, engineered and built at LEVC’s EV factory in Coventry, VN5 operates in the one-tonne sector and shares the same, distinctive design and a lightweight aluminium monocoque as the TX electric taxi. LEVC is owned by China’s Geely Group.
Joerg Hofmann, LEVC CEO, said “I am delighted we have signed this agreement with Europcar, which will enable many businesses to try our innovative new electric van before they buy. LEVC and Europcar share a common goal to advance the accessibility of sustainable transport, and I am confident that business will see that VN5 is the ideal green mobility solution, offering zero-emission capability with no range-anxiety.”
Ron Santiago, Managing Director, Europcar Mobility Group UK, added, “The addition of the VN5 addresses an urgent need amongst commercial vehicle users. Research in 2021 found that 89% of businesses expect a quarter or more of their fleet to enter a Clean Air Zone more than once a week. The VN5 gives customers a compliant solution eliminating the need to factor in additional costs for entering Clean Air Zones. There is also concern that electrified vans may not be able to meet the high-pressure demands of businesses, with uncertainty about the range they can offer.
Santiago adds, “There is a clear gap in availability of electric vehicles, as well as cost barriers for outright purchase. Available as part of our long-term rental solutions, it means businesses have flexibility without having to commit to lease or outright purchase, giving them the chance to really understand how electric will work for them and their drivers.
