Citroën ë-Relay

Citroen E Relay: Ultimate Electric Van



The Citroen E Relay is making waves in the commercial vehicle sector as a game-changing electric van for businesses. This new addition to the Citroen electric van lineup combines eco-friendly performance with practical design, addressing the growing need for sustainable transport solutions in low emissions zones. With its impressive range and robust battery warranty, the E Relay is poised to transform how companies approach their logistics and delivery operations.
The E Relay offers a compelling package for businesses looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. Its versatile design caters to various industry needs, while its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for companies conscious of their bottom line. This article will explore the E Relay's performance capabilities, practical features, and how it stacks up against competitors in the electric van market. Additionally, we'll delve into the long-term benefits of investing in this innovative Citroen electric van and its potential impact on a company's operational efficiency.
Citroen relay

Zero-Emission Large Van Designed for Demanding Business Use

The Citroen E Relay offers impressive performance and range capabilities, making it a reliable choice for businesses operating in low emissions zones. This electric van combines power with efficiency, catering to various commercial needs.

Key Features of the Citroën ë-Relay

The E Relay is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor that delivers 90kW of power, equivalent to 118bhp. It produces a maximum torque of 260Nm, enabling the van to handle substantial loads. The motor allows for smooth and almost silent driving, enhancing the overall driving experience. With a top speed of 80 mph for the 3.5-ton version and 55 mph for the 4-ton variant, the E Relay is well-suited for both urban and highway driving.

Battery Options

Citroen offers two battery options for the E Relay:

1. 37 kWh battery: Suitable for shorter trips and urban deliveries

 

1. 75 kWh battery: Ideal for longer journeys and more demanding routes

The 75 kWh battery replaces the previous 70 kWh unit, providing an extended range. Both batteries come with an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty, offering peace of mind to business owners.
Citroen relay

Driving Range

The E Relay's range varies depending on the battery size:

• 37 kWh battery: Up to 73 miles (WLTP cycle)

 

• 75 kWh battery: Up to 154 miles (WLTP cycle)

It's important to note that actual range may vary based on factors such as load weight, driving style, and weather conditions.

Charging Capabilities

The E Relay supports various charging options to suit different business needs:

1. Rapid DC charging (50 kW): Charges 80% of the battery in approximately 45 minutes

 

1. 22 kW Wallbox: Full charge in 5-9 hours, depending on battery size

 

1. 7 kW Wallbox: Full charge in 6-12 hours, depending on battery size

These charging options provide flexibility for businesses, allowing them to choose the most suitable method based on their operational requirements and available infrastructure.

Versatile Design and Practicality

The Citroen E Relay offers a range of body sizes and configurations to meet diverse business needs. With three lengths (L2, L3, and L4) and one height option (H2), the E Relay provides flexibility for various applications. The panel van comes in three lengths, while the chassis cab is available in two lengths. Additionally, a window van option combines load space with extra seating.
Citroen relay

Body Sizes and Configurations

The E Relay panel vans are available in three lengths:

1. L2: 5,413mm

 

1. L3: 5,998mm

 

1. L4: 6,363mm

All models have a consistent exterior width of 2,050mm (excluding door mirrors) and a height of 2,522mm. The wheelbase varies between models, with L2 having a 3,450mm wheelbase and both L3 and L4 models featuring a 4,035mm wheelbase.

Payload Capacity

The E Relay offers competitive payload capacities:

• 3,500kg GVW models: Up to 1,070kg payload

 

• 4,400kg GVW models: Up to 1,150kg payload

Loading Space

The E Relay provides generous loading space:

• Load volumes range from 11.5m³ (L2) to 15.0m³ (L4)

 

• Maximum load length at floor: 3,210mm (L2) to 4,070mm (L4)

 

• Maximum load width: 1,870mm

 

• Width between wheel arches: 1,422mm

 

• Maximum load height: 1,932mm

Loading access has been optimized with a rear step-in height of 535-565mm. The side door dimensions are 1,755mm (height) and 1,250mm (width), while the rear doors measure 1,790mm (height) and 1,562mm (width).

Interior Features

The E Relay comes equipped with several practical interior features:

• Fixed steel bulkhead

 

• 12V socket in the load area

 

• Load-lashing points (8 in L2 models, 10 in L3 and L4 models)

 

• Air conditioning

 

• Electric front windows

 

• Twin lens door mirrors with electrically adjustable and heated upper mirror

The Enterprise Edition trim includes additional features such as a 7-inch color touchscreen with satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and DAB digital radio. These features enhance both comfort and productivity for drivers and passengers alike.

Cost-Effectiveness for Businesses

The Citroen E Relay presents a compelling case for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles. While the initial investment may seem substantial, the long-term benefits and cost savings make it an attractive option for companies of all sizes.

Initial Investment vs. Long-term Savings

The E Relay's starting price is £51,285 for the 3.5-ton 37kWh model, excluding VAT and after the £5,000 plug-in vehicle grant for large vans. The 75kWh model starts from £53,960 in chassis cab form, while the panel van costs £57,035. Despite the higher upfront cost compared to traditional diesel vans, businesses can expect significant savings in operational costs over time.

Government Incentives

The UK government offers substantial incentives to encourage the adoption of electric commercial vehicles:

1. Plug-in Van Grant (PIVG): Provides a discount of 35% of the purchase price, up to £5,000 for vans between 2.5-3.5 tons.

 

1. Small Truck Grant: Offers up to £16,000 (capped at 20% of the purchase price) for vehicles between 3.5-12.0 tons.

These grants significantly reduce the initial investment, making the E Relay more accessible to businesses.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

The E Relay's electric powertrain has fewer moving parts compared to traditional combustion engines, resulting in lower maintenance costs and reduced downtime. Citroen provides an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty on the electric battery, ensuring 70% of its charging capacity. This warranty offers peace of mind and protects businesses from unexpected battery replacement costs.

Low Emission Zone Benefits

Operating the E Relay in low emission zones provides significant cost savings for businesses. The van is exempt from charges in Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) and Clean Air Zones (CAZ), allowing companies to avoid daily fees and continue operating in restricted areas without additional costs.

Comparison with Competitors

The Citroen E Relay faces stiff competition in the electric van market. Let's compare it with some of its key rivals to see how it stacks up.

Ford E-Transit

The Ford E-Transit is a formidable competitor, offering up to 196 miles of range on a single charge. This surpasses the E Relay's maximum range of 154 miles. The E-Transit also impresses with its power, featuring a 265bhp motor option that provides quick acceleration. In terms of cargo space, the E-Transit maintains the same volume as its diesel counterpart, ensuring no compromise on practicality.

Mercedes-Benz eSprinter

The eSprinter has recently received a significant upgrade, now boasting a 113kWh battery that allows for a maximum range of 248 miles. This puts it ahead of the E Relay in terms of range. The eSprinter also offers rapid charging capabilities, with the ability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 42 minutes. However, the E Relay still holds an advantage in terms of payload capacity, offering up to 1,150kg compared to the eSprinter's 774kg.

Renault Master E-Tech

The Master E-Tech is designed for last-mile deliveries, with a focus on maximizing cargo volume. Its official range of 115 miles falls short of the E Relay's 154 miles. In real-world conditions, the Master E-Tech's range can drop to 75 miles or even 50 miles in cold weather, making the E Relay a more reliable option for longer routes.

Fiat E-Ducato

The E-Ducato offers versatility with a wide range of body styles and configurations. It provides two battery options: 47kWh and 79kWh, with ranges of 146 and 230 miles respectively. The larger battery option outperforms the E Relay in terms of range. The E-Ducato also impresses with its payload capacity, reaching up to 1.9 tons, which exceeds the E Relay's maximum payload.

Conclusion

The Citroen E Relay which is not currently available as a Citroen Relay Dropside has a significant impact on the commercial vehicle market, offering businesses a robust and eco-friendly solution to navigate low emission zones. Its versatile design, impressive range, and cost-effectiveness make it a compelling choice for companies looking to transition to electric fleets. The E Relay's practical features and competitive performance position it well against rivals, though it faces tough competition in some areas like maximum range and payload capacity.
To wrap up, the E Relay represents a key step forward in sustainable transport for businesses. While it may not lead in every category, its well-rounded package and focus on practical needs make it a strong contender in the electric van market. As more companies prioritize reducing their carbon footprint, vans like the E Relay are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of commercial transportation.

FAQs

1. How far can the Citroen E Relay travel on a single charge?
The Citroen ë-Relay Electric van's driving range depends on the battery size. With a 37 kWh battery, it can travel up to 73 miles per the WLTP* cycle, and with a 75 kWh battery, it can reach up to 154 miles.
2. Is the Citroen Relay a reliable vehicle for business use?
The Citroen Relay, though aging, offers practicality and cost-effectiveness, making it a viable option for businesses. However, it may not be the best for long-distance comfort. It's advisable to compare it with similar models like the Peugeot Boxer and Fiat Ducato, which share many features with the Relay.
3. What is the expected lifespan of a Citroen Relay on lease? A Citroen Relay and the New Citroen Relay and the Citroen Relay Low Loader in Particular typically lasts up to 244,000 miles before it is expected to reach the end of its useful life.
4. What is the driving range of the Citroen electric van models?
The Citroen ë-Dispatch Electric van offers a range of up to 143 miles with a 50 kWh battery and up to 196 miles with a 75 kWh battery, according to the WLTP cycle.