Nissan e-NV200: electric power no compromise to practicality

Verdict:  Comfortable, quiet and electric power doesn’t compromise practicality or versatility

The e-NV200’s 770kg maximum payload is actually slightly better than the diesel-engined version.

What’s hot?

> The e-NV200 manages to retain all of the positives and practicality (with the obvious exception of range) of the diesel engined NV200

> The maximum payload, at 770kg is actually slightly better than the diesel’s, thanks to the suspension reinforcements required to accommodate the battery pack

> Load space of 4.2 cubic meters in a vehicle just 4.56 metres long, and a claimed “lowest in class” 52 cm load height

> Exceptionally smooth and quiet electric drive-train, with strong low-speed acceleration

> Low noise levels mean night-time use and noise-sensitive neighbours are less of a problem

> Exempt from the London Congestion Charge

> Zero-rated for Benefit in Kind taxation

> Up to 7p per mile cheaper to run than the diesel, according to Nissan

> Claimed maintenance costs up to 40 per cent lower than for the diesel equivalent

> High equipment levels – eg cruise control, ESP, hill-assist

> Choice of outright purchase or Renault-style battery lease

> Comparatively keen prices starting at £13,393 ex VAT plus £61 per month (battery lease) or £16,562 (outright purchase) – these figures reflect the government’s 20 per cent grant for plug-in vehicles.

If you do more than 70 miles a day on a regular basis, the e-NV200 might not be the van for you.

What’s not

> In a word – range. If you need to do more than about 70 miles a day on a regular basis, the e-NV200 isn’t for you, at least until the charging infrastructure improves

> Charging the batteries is likely to be a lengthy (probably overnight) job, unless you have access to a fast charger