French automaker Peugeot has unveiled its latest fully electric model, the e-Rifter van, adding to its growing list of electric vans that include the e-Expert commercial van, e-Traveller passenger van, and e-Boxer large commercial van.
The new e-Rifter is the latest electric van to be based on the Stellantis EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform) multi-energy modular platform, and the group PSA’s Vauxhall Combo-e and the Citroen e-Berlingo both utilise the same battery and drivetrain technology.
Boasting a range of up to 280-kilometres (WLTP) and available in both standard and long lengths with up to 7 seats, the e-Rifter offers a boot with up to 1,050-litres of storage and a towing capacity of 750-kilograms.
Powered by a 50kWh lithium-ion battery driving a 100% electric engine generating maximum power of 100kW and maximum torque of 260Nm, the e-Rifter is able to hit a mixmum speed of 135km/h and achieve 0 to 100km/h in 11.2 seconds.
A range of charging options are available for the 50kWh battery, including charging from a standard socket which takes 31 hours, 15 hours from a reinforced socket, 7.5 hours from a 7.4kW Wall Box with the single-phase onboard charger or 5 hours from an 11kW Wall Box with the 3-phase 11kW onboard charger.
The e-Rifter can also be charged from a fast charger, allowing charging from a 100kW charger which reaches 80% charge in 30 minutes.
Built with three driving modes – Eco, Normal, and Power – the e-Rifter also offers tow braking modes with suitable types of battery regeneration.
Peugeot highlighted a range of other cosmetic and interior details, including the new digital Peugeot i-Cockpit which offers two new handsets, offering a 10-inch high-definition digital panel or a standard analogue handset.
Expected to be sold in Europe in the second half of 2021, there is no indication when or if we’ll be seeing the e-Rifter in Australia anytime soon.
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.