Fiat is entering a new contender in the EV market on a grand scale. The large Ducato van will be available as a pure EV in 2020, with pre-orders being accepted by the end of 2019. The Ducato electric van does not compromise in performance or utility compared to the diesel model.

Ducato electric vans have the longest driving range of any electric vans on the market. The driving range is 136-223 miles between charges depending on the battery size options. The modular batteries can be upgraded to larger size. Consumers could purchase the Ducato with the smallest battery size and add more power, if necessary, with a battery upgrade.

The time required to charge the battery will depend on the size of the battery. According to Fiat, drivers should be able to get a charge to cover the distance of 62 miles in half an hour with a DC charger.

The batteries are mounted under the floor of the van to avoid any reduction in load volume. Ducato electric vans are built to work. They have a payload capacity of 1950kg. The top speed of the van will be set at 62mph.

Fiat is offering the pure electric version of each type of Ducato van including panel vans and chassis cabs. With many options in the Ducato line, this electric van would be an asset to a wide variety of businesses. The crew cab van is ideal for transporting people. If you need more passenger space, the Combi seats 9 passengers with room for large luggage. Companies with that engage in medical transport or need to regularly transport people who use wheelchairs or special equipment may find the modular base Ducato to be best suited for their needs.

Construction applications abound with the cab chassis which can be fitted to meet a variety of jobs. The cab with tipper is suited for construction jobs that require the transport and delivery of raw materials. The double chassis cab provides added space to accommodate up to 6 passengers. The specialised ambulance base model is designed to be used for all types of rescue vehicles.

Investing in an electric van is an affordable option for many businesses thanks to tax incentives. Owners and operators of electric vehicles are exempt from fuel duty and vehicle excise duty. Business owners can claim the entire purchase price of the electric van against the taxable profits for the year the van is acquired.

The company van tax or Van Benefit Charge is not required if the van is used for business purposes only. If employees use the van for private use, then the Van Benefit Charge must be paid. For 2018/19 tax year the company van tax benefit in kind is £3350 for diesel or petrol vans. Electric vans have a 40% reduction of the main rate or £1340. The benefit in kind tax payable would be £268 a year for a 20% taxpayer and £536 for a 40% taxpayer.

Company car drivers choosing a pure electric vehicle will pay no benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax in 2020/21. The BIK tax will increase to 1% in 2021/22 and 2% in 2022/23.

Companies are leading the way in the EV revolution. More than two-thirds of EV registrations in the UK are by businesses. Many businesses are utilising workplace charge grants and other incentives to make the transition to electric vehicles. Companies with electric vans enjoy the lower fuel and maintenance costs compared with diesel and petrol vans. Stop in at Nathaniel Cars to discuss how new EVs could boost your business.

Please speak to Lee, our Fiat Professional Specialist at 07824632910 if you have any questions or enquiries.