Peugeot e-Expert : Great Choice Of Medium EV ?

The Peugeot e-Expert has made waves in the electric van market, offering a compelling blend of efficiency and practicality. As businesses and individuals increasingly seek eco-friendly transport solutions, this electric van has emerged as a frontrunner in its class. With its sleek design and advanced features, the e-Expert aims to meet the evolving needs of modern van users while reducing their carbon footprint.

This review delves into the key aspects of the Peugeot e-Expert to help potential buyers make an informed decision. We’ll examine its performance and range capabilities, assess its practicality and payload capacity, and explore the running costs and ownership experience. By the end, readers will have a clear picture of whether this electric van is the right fit for their specific requirements and if it lives up to the hype surrounding Peugeot’s foray into the electric commercial vehicle sector.

Performance and Range

The Peugeot e-Expert stands out in the electric van market with its impressive performance and range capabilities. This section delves into the specifics of its electric powertrain, driving modes, real-world range, and charging options.

Electric powertrain specifications

The e-Expert is equipped with a robust 136hp electric motor, the same unit found in Peugeot’s e-208 and e-2008 electric cars. This powertrain delivers immediate performance with 260Nm of torque available from a standstill, providing responsive acceleration without the need for gear changes or a clutch. The automatic transmission ensures smooth operation, all while maintaining near-silent running and zero tailpipe emissions. Peugeot offers two battery pack options for the e-Expert:

• 50kWh battery: Provides a WLTP-certified range of up to 148 miles
• 75kWh battery: Offers an extended WLTP-certified range of up to 211 miles

These range figures are among the highest available in the electric van segment, making the e-Expert a strong contender for businesses requiring longer daily routes.

Driving modes and real-world range

The e-Expert comes with three distinct driving modes, each tailored to different driving conditions and range requirements:

1. Eco Mode: Limits the top speed and throttles power back to 82hp, aiming to extract maximum range from the battery. It also reduces air conditioning usage.
2. Normal Mode: The default setting, producing 109hp. It offers a balance between performance and efficiency, suitable for everyday use.
3. Power Mode: Unlocks the electric motor’s full 136hp performance, providing surprisingly quick acceleration at the expense of range.

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In real-world conditions, the e-Expert’s range has been found to live up to its claims, especially when driven carefully. Urban environments allow drivers to make the most of regenerative braking, maximising the mileage achieved on a single charge. However, it’s worth noting that at motorway speeds, the predicted range tends to decrease more rapidly. During testing, the 75kWh battery variant typically displayed a predicted range of 188 miles. However, real-world range fell short of this by around 40 miles when carrying a mix of empty and half-full loads. To maximise driving range, it’s recommended to:

• Select Eco drive mode
• Keep cabin temperature moderate
• Maintain speeds below 60mph
• Minimise heavy loads where possible

Charging options and times

The e-Expert offers flexible charging options to suit various needs:

1. Home/Workplace Charging:
   • Standard 7.4kW on-board charger (single-phase)
   • Optional 11kW on-board charger (three-phase)
2. Public Charging:
   • Supports rapid DC charging up to 100kW

Charging times vary depending on the method used:

Charging Method	Charging Time (0-100%)
7.4kW wallbox	11 hours 20 minutes
11kW wallbox	7 hours
100kW DC rapid	45 minutes (15-80%)

The e-Expert uses the CCS charging standard, which includes a combined AC and DC inlet port. The upper portion accepts a Type 2 connector for home and workplace charging, while the lower section is used for rapid DC charging. For most cost-effective charging, overnight charging at home using off-peak electricity tariffs is ideal. Owner-operators with off-road parking can install a 7kW wallbox for convenient overnight charging. Public rapid charging, while faster, is generally more expensive and less cost-effective for regular use. The Peugeot e-Expert’s combination of impressive range, flexible driving modes, and various charging options makes it a versatile choice for businesses looking to transition to electric vans. Its performance characteristics, coupled with the potential for significant running cost savings, position it as a compelling option in the growing electric commercial vehicle market. See all Peugeot Expert vans for sale  

Practicality and Payload

The Peugeot e-Expert has been designed to offer exceptional practicality and payload capacity, making it a versatile choice for businesses seeking an electric van solution. Despite its electric powertrain, the e-Expert maintains the same impressive load-carrying capabilities as its diesel counterpart, ensuring that the transition to electric does not compromise on functionality. See all Peugeot Expert lease deals

Cargo space dimensions

The e-Expert is available in three body lengths, each offering a different cargo space configuration to suit various business needs. The van’s load area dimensions are identical to those of the diesel version, demonstrating Peugeot’s commitment to maintaining practicality in their electric offering. The load volume ranges from 4.6 to 6.1 cubic metres, depending on the chosen body length. However, with the innovative MODUWORK® system, these figures can be increased to 5.1 to 6.6 cubic metres, providing additional flexibility for transporting longer items. Here’s a breakdown of the key cargo space dimensions:

Dimension	Compact	Standard	Long
Max load length (mm)	2,160	2,510	2,860
Max load height (mm)	1,397	1,397	1,397
Max load width (mm)	1,628	1,628	1,628
Load length with MODUWORK® (mm)	3,324	3,674	4,024
Width between wheelarches (mm)	1,258	1,258	1,258
Max load volume (m³)	4.6	5.3	6.1
Max load volume with MODUWORK® (m³)	5.1	5.8	6.6

The MODUWORK® system, standard across all e-Expert models, includes a bulkhead gate and folding outer passenger seat. This clever feature allows for an increased usable length of 1.16 metres or additional volume at the front of the van, while still accommodating two people on board.

Maximum payload capacity

The e-Expert offers impressive payload capacities, although they are slightly reduced compared to the diesel versions due to the weight of the battery pack. The maximum payload varies depending on the battery size and body length chosen:

• Models with the 50kWh battery pack offer the highest payload capacity, with short-wheelbase versions capable of carrying up to 1,226kg.
• Even the least capacious e-Expert, fitted with the 75kWh battery, can still carry a substantial 1,001kg.

These payload figures position the e-Expert among the best electric vans available in the market. The van’s ability to carry up to three Euro-pallets further emphasises its practical nature for various business applications.

Towing capabilities

While the e-Expert’s towing capacity is reduced compared to its diesel counterpart, it still offers respectable capabilities for an electric van:

• All Peugeot e-Expert models can tow up to 1,000kg braked.
• The van has been specially calibrated to ensure optimal performance when towing.

It’s worth noting that towing does impact the van’s range, so businesses should factor this into their operational planning when considering the e-Expert for towing duties. The e-Expert’s practicality is further enhanced by its compact external dimensions, which, combined with a specially calibrated power steering system, result in a turning circle diameter of 11.3m for the Compact version. This manoeuvrability, along with a height limit of 1.9m (depending on the version), ensures access to most car parks, making the e-Expert a versatile option for urban deliveries and service operations. In summary, the Peugeot e-Expert offers a compelling package of practicality and payload capacity. Its ability to maintain the same load volumes as the diesel version, coupled with innovative features like the MODUWORK® system, positions it as a strong contender in the electric van market. The combination of substantial payload capacities, flexible cargo space, and decent towing capabilities makes the e-Expert a versatile tool for businesses looking to electrify their fleet without compromising on functionality.

Running Costs and Ownership

The Peugeot e-Expert offers compelling advantages in terms of running costs and ownership, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles. While the initial purchase price may be higher than diesel counterparts, the long-term savings and government incentives can offset this difference significantly.

Purchase price vs diesel models

The e-Expert’s purchase price is generally higher than its diesel equivalents due to the advanced electric powertrain and battery technology. However, Peugeot has implemented a straightforward pricing structure to simplify the decision-making process for potential buyers. It’s important to note that the final price is subject to manufacturer discounts and the Plug-in Van Grant (PiVG) offered by the UK government. The PiVG provides a substantial incentive, offering 35% off the total price of the e-Expert, up to a maximum of £5,000. This grant is automatically deducted from the invoice by the supplying dealer, reducing the upfront cost for businesses. Potential buyers should contact their local retailer to inquire about any current manufacturer promotions that may impact the amount of PiVG they can receive and, consequently, the overall price of the vehicle.

Potential savings on fuel and maintenance

One of the most significant advantages of the e-Expert is the potential for substantial savings on fuel and maintenance costs compared to diesel models. Fuel costs for electric vehicles are considerably lower than those for petrol or diesel vehicles. For instance, charging the e-Expert at home costs approximately £8 for a full charge, providing up to 211 miles of range (WLTP certified) with the 75kWh battery option. This translates to less than 4p per mile, compared to around 13p per mile for an equivalent petrol engine. Maintenance costs for electric vehicles are also typically lower due to their simpler mechanical structure. The e-Expert has fewer moving parts compared to combustion engine vehicles, which means:

1. No oil changes required
2. No need to replace belts, bulbs, or oil philtres
3. No gearbox maintenance

According to a study by fleet management company FATEC, the maintenance cost of an electric vehicle is, on average, a quarter of that of a combustion engine vehicle. This significant reduction in maintenance expenses, coupled with lower fuel costs, can lead to considerable savings over the vehicle’s lifetime.

Government incentives and grants

The UK government offers several incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, which can further reduce the total cost of ownership for the e-Expert:

1. Plug-in Van Grant: As mentioned earlier, this grant provides up to £5,000 off the purchase price of eligible electric vans.
2. Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS): This scheme, also known as the OLEV Grant, offers 75% (up to £350) off the cost of installing a home charging point.
3. Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS): Businesses can receive a £350 contribution for every charging point purchased, up to 40 sockets across all sites per eligible organisation, with a maximum of £10,000.
4. Road Fund Licence (RFL) and Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) exemptions: Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) like the e-Expert are exempt from these taxes, resulting in additional savings.
5. Congestion Charge exemptions: In some cities, such as London, electric vehicles may be exempt from congestion charges, leading to further cost savings for businesses operating in urban areas.
6. Company Car Tax benefits: The Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rates for electric vehicles are significantly lower than those for petrol or diesel vehicles, providing substantial savings for company car drivers.

These incentives, combined with the lower running costs, can help offset the higher initial purchase price of the e-Expert, making it an increasingly attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their overall fleet expenses and environmental impact.

Conclusion

The Peugeot e-Expert has shown itself to be a strong contender in the electric van market. With its impressive range, practical cargo space, and potential for significant cost savings, it offers a compelling package for businesses looking to go green. The van’s ability to maintain high payload capacities while delivering zero-emission performance demonstrates Peugeot’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of commercial vehicle users. For businesses considering the switch to electric, the e-Expert presents a viable option to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on functionality. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance, coupled with government incentives, make a strong case for ownership. As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, the e-Expert stands out as a practical and forward-thinking choice for a wide range of commercial applications.

FAQs

Is purchasing an electric van currently a good investment? Investing in an electric van can be cost-effective in the long run due to lower per-mile costs compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. Although the initial purchase price might be higher, you could benefit from reduced running costs, simpler servicing requirements, and exemption from road tax and ULEZ charges. What is the driving range of the Peugeot e-Expert? The Peugeot e-Expert offers a distinctive design tailored for business needs, featuring new onboard technologies and a fully electric engine. It provides a driving range of up to 219 miles according to the WLTP standards. Currently, the Peugeot Expert’s fuel consumption ranges between 34 – 38.7 MPG, with CO2 emissions of 191 – 216 g/km. Which engine is recommended for the Peugeot Expert? The 180PS diesel engine, which is the most powerful option available for the Peugeot Expert, might seem excessive as the 150PS and 120PS engines also offer excellent performance. The 120PS engine is particularly recommended for most users due to its optimal balance of power and payload capacity. What does the B button do on the Peugeot e-Expert electric van? The B button on the Peugeot e-Expert enhances the regenerative braking system to recover more energy. Note that using the Power mode button to access full power can reduce the van’s range. Despite having a large 75kWh battery, the WLTP range is approximately 339 km, which is reasonable but not exceptional.