Volkswagen has launched its first fully electric van in the United Kingdom, the ABT eTransporter 6.1, which offers an all-electric range of up to 131 kilometres and cargo space of 6.7m3.
According to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the light commercial vehicles subsidiary of German automotive giant Volkswagen Group, the ABT eTransporter 6.1 “combines quiet and smooth driving, instant torque, fast charging and high load capacity for the ultimate zero-emissions urban logistics van.”
With a maximum power output of 110PS (83kW), a 0-100 kph acceleration time of just 17.4 seconds, and flexible charging options allowing for 80% charge in only 45 minutes, the ABT eTransporter 6.1 offers industry a commercial vehicle with a “technically-advanced and lightweight electric motor” which provides a smooth and quiet driving experience and low maintenance requirements.
A Combined Charging System (CCS) socket on the new ABT eTransporter 6.1 provides the ability to charge via both AC and DC, allowing use of either a CCS (DC charging) or Type 2 (AC charging) plug type.
The new ABT eTransporter 6.1 benefits most from rapid charging from a DC chrager, supporting up to 50kW DC charging using a CCS connector, which means the vehicle’s lithium-ion battery can achieve a charging state of 80 per cent within approximately 45 minutes – ideal for vans working a busy shift pattern.
The eTransporter also supports AC charging up to 7.2kW which can be done using a wallbox which will charge the battery in about five and a half hours.
The onboard battery supplies energy to both the electronics and the electric motor and is fitted underneath the load area in an effort to minimise reducing the cargo area.
With regenerative braking to recoup lost energy, the ABT eTransporter 6.1 also features a modified dual clutch transmission DSG, which provides 75% power when Drive is selected to maximise range, and 100% power and torque when the kickdown function is selected.
Pricing for the ABT eTransporter 6.1 in the UK starts from £42,060 ($A78,200 converted), with the Advance trim from £45,360 ($A84,500 converted) and the kombi crew van and kombi crew van Advance priced from £46,375 ($A86,300 converted) and £49,985 ($A92,300 converted), respectively (all UK prices exclude VAT).
There was no indication given of when the ABT eTransporter 6.1 would land in Australia.
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Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.