Luton: Fiat E-Ducato vs MAN eTGE
Electric vans are becoming ever more popular as time passes, with it certainly being safe to say that they are the way the future of vans is headed. Not only are many of the leading manufacturers coming out with electric versions of their van models, but they are now making these available in a range of body types, such as lutons, tippers and dropsides.
This is a game changer for people who work in various industries and require a specific type of van that is better catered to their job. In this review, we will specifically be looking at an example of two electric luton vans that are currently available to buy, seeing how well they perform and comparing the two.
The luton vans in question are the Fiat E-Ducato and the MAN eTGE. Read on to see our verdict on the two.
Engines and Spec
Our first point of call is the engines, or technically electric motors, each van operates with. Looking first at the Fiat E-Ducato Luton, this is powered by a 90kWh motor with the choice of two battery packs, one of which is 47kWh and the other 79kWh. Both of these are incredibly mighty, with each of them offering a highly impressive driving range, especially when compared to other electric vans.
With the smaller battery, the van is capable of achieving 142 miles, while the larger battery offers an incredible 230 miles. Of course, this isn’t taking into account external factors, such as payload – and with a luton van we assume you’ll often be carrying a relatively full load, but even so there is certainly a lot of leeway offered with these high ranges to still be able to complete longer journeys with a full load. However, it is worth noting that this is partly due to the vans limited top speed of 60mph, which is one of its few drawbacks.
As for the MAN eTGE Luton, this has a capacity of 36.9kWh, offering a more limited range of 68-71 miles. This is significantly lower than the Fiat and may not be the most suitable if you require your luton van for home removals, however is still enough when used in cities (such as for local office removals or making deliveries of large goods), where the range can be extended thanks to the battery’s recuperation abilities.
The eTGE does, however, have the benefit of a faster charging time, taking 5.5hrs to charge with an AC wall charger, while the E-Ducato takes 7.5 hours. As for DC rapid charging, the eTGE reaches 80% charge in as little as 45 minutes and the E-Ducato takes 50 minutes to 1hr 25 minutes depending on the battery size – both of which are still relatively slow for DC charging.
Interior
When it comes to luton vans, one of the key things you will be looking out for is how good the storage solutions are. In the E-Ducato, the maximum payload is 1,885kg, which is exceptional for an electric van, and certainly capable of carrying heavy loads for home removals and the transportation of bulky goods.
As for the eTGE, the standard panel van offers up to 10.7m3 of loading space, with this space increasing further when converted to a luton configuration, especially with the additional over-cab storage, making it ideal for fitting in large, bulky goods and delivery items of varying sizes. More about the loading space can be found in our eTGE Luton review.
As practical as the space is in the back, comfort in the front is still ensured, with all eTGE vans utilising a purely electric heating and air conditioning system, with the option to have additional heated seats and steering wheel for an extra price. The interior fittings are also sophisticated, while the controls are highly ergonomic and convenient, such as control buttons on the steering wheel and the featured multimedia system being operable by voice command.
Looking at the cabin area of the E-Ducato, this is as functional as the standard Ducato, albeit a little dated looking in comparison to the eTGE. However, if practicality is key for you, then it performs sufficiently, with ample storage solutions and a standard touchscreen infotainment system. In our E-Ducato Luton review, you can learn more about the additional features that come with the eTechno variant of this van.
The Verdict
So, which is the better luton van? Well, that’s down for you to decide, as the answer is dependent on your own specific needs and requirements.
If you require a Luton van as part of a removals company, then the payload and driving range of the Fiat E-Ducato Luton may be the best option for you. However, if you live in a busy city with lots of start-stop traffic and need a van with enough space to transport and deliver bulky goods, then you may choose to consider the MAN eTGE Luton, instead.
Whichever van you decide is best for you, you should procure it from Van Sales UK. We have both these vans available brand new and in stock now, offering them on zero deposit, low rate finance so you don’t have to fork out the price of purchasing them outright.
Want to trade in your old combustion van for a brand new electric one? That’s great – we offer part exchange, too! Enquire today for your free, no obligation quote.
