Luton: Citroen E-Relay vs Maxus E Deliver 9

With all of the extra space that they offer, Luton vans are an excellent choice for those looking to transport a large volume of goods around, such as tradespeople, delivery drivers and professional removal companies. Naturally, powering such a large vehicle can be costly as it is, but this is especially true due to the recent spike in energy prices. Fortunately, in order to remain compliant with  updated emissions regulations, many mainstream van manufacturers have now released electric variants of their most popular Luton models. Two great examples of this are the Citroen e-Relay Luton and the Maxus e-Deliver 9 Luton.

Whilst the Citroen Relay Luton and e-Relay Luton are both strong contenders when it comes to your next commercial vehicle purchase, we understand that customers might not be sure of which option is best for them and the needs of their business. Not to worry, however, as in this guide we’ve compiled the peaks and pitfalls of both vehicles to help you determine which one is most suitable for you.

Engines and Spec

Starting with what you’ll find beneath the bonnet of the e-Relay, there’s a 75kWh battery which produces a generous driving range of 154 miles. If you can find a 50kW public charger, you can reach an 85% charge in just 45 minutes; otherwise, a more common 7kW charger that you’re likely to have at home or at work will take up to 12 hours. However, this is perfectly fine if you’re leaving it to charge overnight.

Moving onto the e-Deliver 9 , drivers will be pleased to know that there are multiple battery size options available: 51.5, 72 or 88.5kWh. All of these engines are capable of producing around 310 Nm of torque and, impressively, a 200 mile driving range – subject to road conditions and driving style – which is great news for long-distance drivers. Like the e-Relay, with a rapid DC charger the e-Deliver 9 can reach 80% in approximately 40 minutes.

Both vans yield a substantial payload capacity due to the fact that their batteries are located beneath the floor, meaning that their load spaces aren’t at all compromised. While the L3 and L4 models of the e-Relay can carry 1147 kg and 979 kg respectively, the e-Deliver 9 similarly has a payload of 1,100kg. These weights, alongside the additional space offered by the Luton design, makes both vans ideal for transporting heavier items with ease.

Interior

The e-Relay makes use of the same hardwearing materials and abundant storage options that its diesel counterpart offers. Drivers and passengers alike will be pleased to find that there is more than enough room for three adults to sit comfortably, with even the middle passenger seat offering plenty of legroom. Naturally, like with all electric conversions, the gear lever has been removed and replaced with an intuitive button design to switch between drive modes with ease, whilst all of the necessary information you need – battery level, remaining range and current driving mode – is conveniently displayed on the rear view mirror. This does mean, however, that the instrument cluster is rendered redundant, showing you the speed and nothing else.

The e-Deliver 9 has a similarly comfortable and spacious interior, with an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat, built-in air conditioning, DAB radio with mp3 and Bluetooth capabilities all working to enhance the driving experience. Alongside creature comforts, Maxus have also put a real emphasis on safety features in this van, as evidenced by the rear fog light, cruise control, power steering and automatic emergency braking. Although it might not have all of the same high-tech features that we’ve come to expect from electric vehicles these days, there are nonetheless desirable elements aplenty.

The Verdict

Both the Citroen Relay Luton and Maxus e-Deliver 9 Luton are ideal choices if your job requires you to regularly transport hefty loads, such as large pallets or heavy, awkward cargo. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to the needs of your business, but at the very least with either van you can rest assured that you are investing in a zero-emissions van that is packed full of convenient features.

If you’d like to find out more about either of these vans, please get in touch with Van Sales UK, where we supply new commercial vans on a low-rate, zero-deposit finance basis. Our competitive prices certainly won’t be beaten, and each purchase includes free mainland UK delivery and an excellent manufacturer’s warranty and breakdown cover policy.