Story: COLIN DAWSON
The Partner Electric's battery packs are sited under the body on either side of the rear axle, which is said to maintain the road handling behaviour as well as the useable loadspace
Peugeot will introduce an all-electric version of the Partner during the second quarter of 2013 and featured a prototype at the recent Hannover Commercial Vehicle show. The van is based on the existing Partner model, which was restyled in spring.
Partner Electric has a permanent-magnet synchronous compact electric motor producing 67hp (49kW) and 200Nm of instantly available torque. This is linked to a constant single-speed gear reduction unit, which is said to provide strong and progressive acceleration from standstill.
The van’s electric drivetrain is fitted under the bonnet, and is powered by two high-energy lithium-ion battery packs with a capacity of 22.5kWh. The battery packs are sited under the body on either side of the rear axle, and are said to maintain the conventional Partner’s road handling behaviour as well as the useable dimensions of the loadspace.
To make it suitable for all types of daily use, Partner Electric has two charging modes: a normal charge (up to 16A) in six to nine hours and a fast charge (up to 125A) allowing recovery of 80% of the capacity of the batteries in 30 minutes. The normal charging flap is located on the right front wing of the vehicle, while the fast charge socket takes the place of the fuel filler flap on the left rear wing. The range of is likely to be around 105 miles (170km).
Innovative eco-driving is said to be a feature with the presence of an energy consumption or recovery indicator as a constant aid for the driver in adopting an economical driving style. An auxiliary consumption gauge (heating and air conditioning) is also fitted. The trip computer also displays the remaining range and the average energy consumption in kWh.
Partner Electric recovers energy during deceleration and also during active braking, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy. In this way, driving range is better preserved. A 100% electric heating system is said to provide rapid warming of the cabin. It also benefits from an ‘eco mode’ that maintains ventilation without excessive consumption of electrical power, also helping to preserve the range of the vehicle. An electronic stability system (ESP) is fitted as standard, coupled with hill-start assist.
Business van users will be able buy Partner Electric in two lengths (L1: 4.38m and L2: 4.63m), said to offer the largest load volumes in the small van segment. The load volume of up to 3.3cu m for L1 with a load length of 1.80m and 3.7cu m for L2 with a load length of 2.05m, for a payload of up to 685kg, are the best in this category, according to Peugeot.
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