Tipper: Fiat E-Ducato vs Volkswagen E-Crafter
Tipper vans have long been favoured by tradespeople working in light construction or landscaping thanks to the convenience they offer when it comes to transporting and unloading building materials, construction or garden waste and heavy equipment. The popularity of the tipper van, combined with our increasing awareness of the climate crisis, has led many mainstream van manufacturers to convert their most popular tipper models into electric variants. Two great examples of this are the Fiat e-Ducato Tipper and Volkswagen e-Crafter Tipper.
Whilst the e-Ducato Tipper and e-Crafter Tipper 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
Let’s start by comparing what’s under the bonnet of these two vehicles. The e-Ducato Tipper comes with a choice of two batteries – 47kWh or 79kWh – that offer a driving range of 146 miles and 200 miles respectively. Both of these figures are rather impressive for an electric vehicle of its size, and are perfect for making journeys with motorway stretches. Using a 50kW DC rapid charger, it will take just 30 minutes to add 60 miles of charger.
By comparison, the e-Crafter Tipper is powered by a 35kW battery and a motor that yields 134bhp – plenty of power for those looking to carry a heavy load around town. The van’s smooth, comfortable driving experience helps you to make the most of the 107 miles of driving range on offer, which despite not matching up to either of the e-Ducato’s ranges, is still suitable for getting around town with ease. When using a rapid DC charger, the e-Crafter’s battery can achieve a 80% charge in just 45 minutes, although this time will naturally increase significantly when using a more common 7kW power pack.
When it comes to payload capacity, the two vehicles are almost matched. Whilst the e-Crafter achieves a strong rating of 1,709kg, the e-Ducato only just takes the lead with a rating of 1.885kg. With the figures being so similar, you can rest assured that whichever option you choose, you will be receiving a mid-weight electric van which is more than capable of taking on hefty loads.
Interior
Moving onto the cab, both vans have a number of great features that are worth mentioning. The e-Ducato’s interior is practical over plush, with plenty of useful storage options dotted around the cab. Of the two trim levels on offer, both come kitted out with an infotainment system. The higher trim also includes handy extras such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite navigation, as well as a rear-view camera.
On the other hand, the e-Crafter is refreshingly spacious with plenty of storage options for holding everything you need for a day on the road. For extra convenience, the central seat can be converted into a fold-down tray that’s ideal for completing paperwork, and can double up as a storage compartment when required.
As a whole the e-Crafter’s interior is designed with driver and passenger satisfaction in mind. Evidence of this can be found in features like automatic air conditioning and heated seats, which provide all year round comfort. There is also the inclusion of a modern infotainment system, which comes complete with satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and DAB radio.
The Verdict
Despite the fact that the Fiat e-Ducato Tipper and the Volkswagen e-Crafter Tipper are both strong and reliable electric vehicles in their own right, there are naturally advantages and disadvantages of both, and deciding between the two will ultimately come down to your specific requirements. For example, if you need a van that can go the extra distance and is capable of carrying that little bit of extra payload, the e-Ducato could be the van for you.
Whichever van you choose, you’re sure to find it at the very best price at Van Sales UK. Stocking an extensive range of diesel and electric vans on an outright purchase or finance basis, our highly competitive prices won’t be beaten. We also offer free mainland UK delivery with every purchase, as well as excellent warranty and breakdown cover.
If you’d like to find out more about the two vans discussed in this review or simply any van available on our site, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here at Van Sales UK by giving us a call on 0117 205 2659.
