IT’S been confirmed – the Nissan e-NV200 will go into production in 2013.
Although still officially a concept vehicle, the e-NV200 being given its world premiere at the Hanover Motor Show gives a clear indication of the distinctive style and, more significantly, the technical make-up of the final production vehicle.
Its sophisticated all-electric drivetrain is based on the advanced laminated lithium-ion battery and electric motor that powers Nissan LEAF, the world’s best-selling electric vehicle in history.
As well as delivering a range and performance comparable to Nissan LEAF, it means e-NV200 operators will be able to recharge the battery of their vans to 80 per cent capacity in just 30 minutes thanks to its Quick Charge capability, thus ensuring minimal down time – vital for a working vehicle. It will also be much cheaper to operate with lower fuel costs and reduced regular maintenance.
What’s more, e-NV200 will be able to harness the energy stored in its battery to power electric tools and equipment up to 6,000W… a suitably equipped e-NV200 could, for example, become a mobile restaurant at outdoor events, a mobile workshop, etc.
Thanks to clever packaging of the compact batteries under the load space floor – a location that also helps to lower the vehicle’s centre of gravity – e-NV200 maintains exactly the same carrying capacity as the conventional NV200.
Despite its compact overall dimensions, e-NV200 will have a class leading and highly practical load volume of 4.2m3 with the capability of carrying two standard Euro pallets between the rear wheel arches while the 2m cargo length means it can carry 20 standard Euro boxes. Its modest width, however, will allow e-NV200 to squeeze through crowded city streets more easily.
‘Zero-emission vehicles like Nissan LEAF are already playing an increasingly significant environmental role in our towns and cities,’ said Nissan Corporate Vice President Hideto Murakami, head of the Global LCV Business Unit.
‘The arrival of a practical and, more to the point, realistic zero-emission delivery vehicle will not only improve the quality of urban life but thanks to low running costs will also help ease the economic burdens placed on companies.’
Nissan’s next zero-emission vehicle – the second of four promised by 2014 – has already proved its worth during real-world prototype testing. A small fleet of converted battery-powered NV200s has been loaned to globally recognised collection and delivery companies including the Japan Post Service and FedEx.
As well as a panel van, e-NV200 will be available as a passenger-carrying combi and as the family-oriented seven seat Evalia.
‘e-NV200 represents a bold and innovative addition to our commercial vehicle range, which is already one of the broadest of any manufacturer,’ said Murakami.