Ford E-Transit Dropside vs Vauxhall Movano-e Dropside

Two premium options for those seeking a large electric van, the Ford E-Transit Dropside and Vauxhall Movano-e Dropside are both fantastic vehicles, with assorted pros and cons between them. Though generally both are notably very adaptable and easy to use for those new to the EV wave, we’ll take a look at everything from the technical specifications and engine details to the interior space and assorted features. With both vehicles existing as conversions of already-popular diesel options, read ahead and discover your new favourite commercial van..

Definite all-rounders with the bulky appearance of their diesel counterparts, the Movano-e Dropside and Transit Dropside both put in solid performances much like their contemporaries. Seamless dropside functionality for both, and a user-friendly interface ensure that these van conversion types truly feel like electric vans from the ground up, instead of low-effort conversions. Open to browsing? Cast your eye over our large selection of new vans – each available from Van Sales UK.

Adaptable to different commercial contexts thanks to an assortment of generous specifications, there are plenty of reasons to consider each, though the interior is where things get more competitive. The Vauxhall Movano-e notably offers a wider range of safety and convenience features than the e-Transit, though Ford’s EV is clearly designed to meet the wide-ranging demands of business and fleet users – with a higher payload and better overall range available.

Engines and Spec

Important factors when picking a new van, the engine and related performance specs are well worth your consideration before finalising such an investment. The E-Transit features a 400 volt battery with a potential 68 kWh output, all-round poorer compared to the Movano e-Dropside, which can reach speeds of up to 75 mph with a 75kWh battery. In direct contrast, on a full charge, the E-Transit’s battery has a 196 mile range – dwarfing the 139 mile range of the Movano-e.

Whether acquiring for a fleet or as a one-off ‘office on wheels’, there’s welcome variation. Within both, you can look forward to a quiet, composed feel behind the wheel. As described in our original Ford E-Transit Electric Dropside review, one of the biggest benefits of the Transit is that 115kW fast charging capabilities can take it up to 80% charge in just 34 minutes. The Movano takes slightly longer, though can still go from 0-80% charge in as little as an hour.

Interior

Interior comfort features and techy additions can be just as desirable as a quick-charging battery or impressive range, and both of these large vans tick boxes in this regard. The Ford e-Transit comes with a 12-inch central touchscreen, fitted with a Sync 4 infotainment system, whereas the Vauxhall Movano-e boasts a slightly smaller 5-inch touchscreen infotainment display – with a built-in navigation system. Our original Vauxhall Movano-e Electric Dropside review provides lots of detail on the specifics, though as an overview, the interior delivers class-leading space without sacrificing comfort.

Bonus driving features vary, from the controllable brake-regeneration system to button-controlled driving modes (Drive, Neutral or Reverse). Systems available in the Ford variant include forward collision alert, blind spot warning, lane departure warning and Hill Descent Control, which takes into account the extra length of a trailer when warning drivers about objects in their blind spot.

Sizeable rear storage means the dedicated tradesperson will have a premium area to work with, and operating the smooth dropside functionality is seamless. We noticed little change between the slick operation of these dropside body variants compared to their diesel predecessors – so in other words, if you find it easy loading a conventional non-electric dropside, this should be a piece of cake.

The Verdict/Snapshot

To summarise these two fantastic electric van conversions – you’ll perhaps have a difficult task deciding between the two. With easy dropside functionality, a large number of in-cab convenience and tech features as well as a capable range of safety must-haves, both vehicles are adaptable and essay to use. Catering to that specific audience of inner-city couriers, delivery drivers and tradespeople, the attention-to-detail within both is commendable.

Fast-charging, with multiple driver modes to suit the context you find yourself in, making the switch to an EV for work could hardly be easier – therefore we would certainly recommend both the Ford E-Transit Dropside and Vauxhall Movano-e Dropside for light construction workers and tradies who are considering an electric van, but don’t know where to start.

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