Electric VW Crafter Lease : The Future

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant shift towards electric vehicles, and this transition extends to the commercial sector. The electric VW Crafter lease options are at the forefront of this change, offering businesses a sustainable and cost-effective solution for their transportation needs. As companies strive to reduce their carbon footprint and adapt to stricter emissions regulations, the electric VW Crafter stands out as a compelling choice in the realm of electric vans. Source 
This article delves into the various aspects of leasing an electric VW Crafter, exploring its features, performance, and environmental benefits. It examines the different lease options available, compares the costs of leasing versus buying, and assesses the van's practicality for everyday business use. By the end, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of why the electric VW Crafter is shaping the future of van leasing and how it aligns with the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions in the commercial sector.
VW Crafter

Overview of the Electric VW Crafter

The Volkswagen e-Crafter represents a significant step forward in the realm of electric commercial vehicles. Unveiled as a concept at the 2016 International Motor Show in Hanover, this large electric van quickly transitioned from concept to reality, hitting the roads just two years later. The e-Crafter set new standards for zero-emission use in urban centers, offering businesses a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel vans.

Key Features

The e-Crafter has a powerful 100-kilowatt electric motor, equivalent to 134 horsepower, which propels the vehicle to a top speed of 50 mph. It delivers up to 290 Nm of torque, ensuring powerful acceleration even when loaded. The van's 35kW battery gives it an official range of 107 miles, which, while not particularly impressive by today's standards, aligns with Volkswagen's research suggesting most van drivers cover between 40 and 60 miles per day.
In terms of practicality, the e-Crafter maintains the impressive features of its diesel counterpart. It has a load volume of approximately 11.3 cubic meters, a maximum load compartment height of 1,961 mm, and a maximum payload of 1,709 kg. This makes it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.
The e-Crafter also stands out visually. It features special Reef Blue Metallic paintwork, painted bumpers and side protectors, and a blue bar in the radiator grille. C-shaped daytime running lights, a signature feature of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' electric range, illuminate the front of the van.
VW Crafter Accessories

Benefits of Electric Vans

Switching to an electric van like the e-Crafter has several advantages. Firstly, there's a significant reduction in operating costs. While the initial purchase price may be higher than a diesel equivalent, the e-Crafter benefits from reduced fuel costs. Charging the van exclusively at home can be 50-65% cheaper than fueling petrol or diesel vans.
Electric vans also have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts. Additionally, they're exempt from road tax and congestion charges in many cities, including London's Ultra Low Emission Zone. This makes them particularly attractive for businesses operating in urban areas.
Another key benefit is the positive environmental impact. With zero tailpipe emissions, electric vans like the e-Crafter contribute to cleaner air in cities and enhance a company's sustainability credentials. They also offer a quieter, more comfortable driving experience, which can lead to happier drivers and a more relaxed working environment. See all electric vans

VW Crafter vs Competitors

The e-Crafter faces competition from several other electric vans in the market, including the Ford e-Transit, Maxus eDeliver 9, Mercedes eSprinter, and Renault Master E-Tech. While each of these vans has its own strengths, the e-Crafter holds its own with its combination of practicality, performance, and Volkswagen's reputation for quality. See all electric vans for sale
However, it's worth noting that the e-Crafter went off sale in the UK in 2022 and is not expected to return until at least 2026. The next generation e-Crafter is anticipated to be developed in partnership with Ford, potentially sharing underpinnings with the Ford e-Transit. See all electric van lease deals
Despite this temporary absence from the UK market, the e-Crafter remains a compelling option for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles. Its balance of range, payload capacity, and urban-friendly features make it a strong contender in the electric van market. As cities increasingly implement low-emission zones and businesses prioritize sustainability, vans like the e-Crafter are likely to play an increasingly important role in the future of commercial transportation.

Lease Options for the Electric VW Crafter

The electric VW Crafter offers a range of leasing options to suit different business and personal needs. These options provide flexibility and affordability for those looking to drive a brand-new Volkswagen without the commitment of outright ownership.

Business Lease

Business leasing for the electric VW Crafter has become an increasingly popular choice for companies seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining a reliable fleet. This option allows businesses to access the latest electric van technology without the substantial upfront costs associated with purchasing.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Financial Services offers competitive Contract Hire agreements for business users. For instance, a typical offer might include:

• A 36-month contract

 

• 10,000 miles per annum allowance

 

• An initial rental of £3,414

 

• Monthly payments starting from £569 (excluding VAT)

These terms provide businesses with a clear understanding of their financial commitment over the lease period. It's important to note that such offers are subject to terms and conditions, and no ownership of the vehicle is transferred at the end of the contract.

Personal Lease

For individuals or sole traders who prefer to keep their business and personal vehicles separate, personal leasing options are available for the electric VW Crafter. These deals are structured similarly to business leases but are tailored for personal use.
Personal lease deals often come with benefits such as:

• Delivery to your door

 

• Maintenance plans available

 

• Access to exclusive offers not available to many other leasing companies

Monthly payments for personal leases can vary, with some deals starting from around £610.98 per month, excluding VAT. The exact cost depends on factors such as the specific model, lease duration, and annual mileage allowance.

Flexible Lease Terms

One of the key advantages of leasing an electric VW Crafter is the flexibility in lease terms. Customers can choose from a variety of options to suit their needs:

1. Lease Duration: Terms typically range from 12 to 36 months, with some providers offering extensions up to 60 months.

 

1. Mileage Allowance: Annual mileage limits can be adjusted to match usage patterns, affecting the monthly payment.

 

1. Maintenance Packages: Optional maintenance packages can be included to cover services, MOTs, and tire replacements.

 

1. Initial Rental: The upfront payment can often be adjusted, impacting the subsequent monthly payments.

 

1. End-of-Lease Options: At the end of the agreement, lessees can simply return the vehicle or explore purchase options if available.

The flexibility extends to the leasing process itself. While some vehicles may be available for quick delivery if in stock, custom orders might take a few months. The approval process can be expedited if credit checks and documentation are completed promptly.
When considering whether to lease or buy an electric VW Crafter, it's crucial to evaluate individual circumstances. Leasing often proves more cost-effective for businesses that prefer to have access to the latest models and technology without the long-term commitment of ownership. However, a thorough comparison of financing options and long-term costs is recommended before making a decision.
Leasing an electric VW Crafter provides a simple and affordable way to drive a brand-new, eco-friendly commercial vehicle. With options for both business and personal use, flexible terms, and competitive pricing, it represents an attractive solution for those looking to transition to electric vehicles in the commercial sector.

Cost Analysis of Leasing vs Buying

When considering an electric VW Crafter, businesses must carefully weigh the financial implications of leasing versus buying. This analysis helps determine the most cost-effective option for their specific needs and circumstances.

Initial Costs

Leasing an electric VW Crafter typically has a lower upfront cost compared to purchasing. While buying a new vehicle requires a substantial financial commitment, leasing spreads the cost over time. For instance, a typical lease agreement might include an initial rental of £3,414, which is significantly less than the full purchase price of a new Crafter.
In contrast, buying a new commercial vehicle outright has become increasingly expensive. Even entry-level models of popular vans can cost upwards of £17,000 to £23,000. The electric VW Crafter, being a larger and more advanced vehicle, has an even higher price point. For example, the Crafter 'Commerce' trim starts from just over £45,000 (including VAT), while the 'Commerce Plus' trim begins at around £53,000 (including VAT).

Monthly Payments Electric VW Crafter Lease

Leasing offers more predictable monthly expenses, which can be advantageous for cash flow management. Monthly lease payments for an electric VW Crafter can start from around £569 (excluding VAT) for business users, based on a typical 36-month contract with a 10,000-mile annual allowance. Personal lease deals might begin at approximately £610.98 per month, excluding VAT.
These monthly payments are often lower than loan repayments for purchasing the vehicle outright. However, it's important to note that lease payments continue throughout the contract period, whereas loan payments eventually end, leaving the business with a valuable asset.

Total Cost of Ownership Electric VW Crafter Lease

To determine the total cost of ownership, businesses must consider several factors beyond the initial purchase price or lease payments:

1. Depreciation: This has a significant impact on the cost of ownership when buying. New vehicles can lose value rapidly, especially in the first few years. Leasing absorbs depreciation costs into the monthly payments, protecting the lessee from this financial hit.

 

1. Maintenance and Repairs: Lease agreements often include warranties that cover maintenance expenses, reducing unexpected costs. When purchasing, the owner has to bear all maintenance and repair costs, which can be substantial for commercial vehicles.

 

1. Fuel Efficiency: The electric VW Crafter offers improved fuel efficiency compared to its diesel counterparts. Depending on the variant, businesses can expect to average between 32 and 36 mpg on the combined cycle, leading to potential long-term savings on fuel costs.

 

1. Tax Implications: Both leasing and purchasing can offer tax benefits. Lease payments may be tax-deductible as a business expense, while purchasing allows for deductions on interest payments, maintenance costs, and depreciation.

 

1. Residual Value: When purchasing, businesses can recover some of their investment by selling the vehicle in the future. Leasing doesn't offer this benefit, but it also protects against the risk of lower-than-expected resale values.

 

1. Flexibility: Leasing provides the opportunity to upgrade to newer models more frequently, which can have value in terms of accessing the latest technology and maintaining a modern fleet image.

While leasing often appears more cost-effective in the short term, the long-term financial implications can vary. Over extended periods, the cumulative cost of leasing may exceed the total cost of purchasing and maintaining a vehicle. However, this needs to be balanced against the benefits of regular fleet renewal and potential operational efficiencies gained from newer vehicles.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The shift towards electric vehicles, including the electric VW Crafter, has significant implications for environmental sustainability. This transition is driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, with electric vehicles offering a promising solution for the transportation sector.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Electric vehicles, such as the VW e-Crafter, have a substantially lower carbon footprint compared to their petrol or diesel counterparts. Studies have shown that electric cars have a 50 to 80% better carbon footprint than petrol cars over their entire lifetime. This advantage increases the more they are driven, making them particularly beneficial for commercial use.
The carbon footprint of an electric vehicle begins with its production. While the manufacturing process, especially battery production, initially creates higher emissions than traditional vehicles, this is offset during the vehicle's lifespan. The Eindhoven University of Technology's 2020 study confirms that electric vehicles have lower lifetime climate impacts than those with internal combustion engines.
When in use, all-electric cars like the e-Crafter emit no particulates or CO2 while driving. They are also significantly more energy-efficient, capable of traveling three to four times further with the same amount of energy compared to diesel vehicles. This efficiency contributes to their overall lower environmental impact.

Government Incentives

Recognizing the environmental benefits of electric vehicles, governments are offering various incentives to encourage their adoption. In the UK, the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) provides grants to support the transition to electric vans.
For businesses considering the electric VW Crafter, the following incentives are available:

1. Plug-In Van Grant: This grant covers 35% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of £5,000 for larger vans weighing 2-3.5 tons gross vehicle weight (GVW).

 

1. Workplace Charging Scheme: Businesses can receive up to £350 off the price of each charging point installation, for up to 40 charge points. This scheme significantly reduces the costs associated with setting up charging infrastructure at business premises.

These incentives make the transition to electric vans more financially viable for businesses, aligning economic considerations with environmental goals.

Charging Infrastructure

The growth of charging infrastructure is crucial for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. The UK has made significant progress in this area, with the number of charging stations now exceeding that of petrol stations. According to Zap Map, there are over 34,000 charging points across 20,000 different locations in the UK, with fast chargers being the most common type.
Several charging networks, run by companies such as Pod Point, Ecotricity, and Polar, offer both national and regional coverage. The payment process for public charging points has been simplified, with most using apps or radiofrequency identification (RFID) cards, and contactless bank card payments becoming increasingly common.
For businesses operating electric vans like the VW e-Crafter, the expanding charging network provides greater flexibility and reduces range anxiety. However, to maximize the environmental benefits, it's crucial to consider the source of electricity used for charging. Charging with green electricity significantly improves an electric vehicle's carbon footprint. Businesses can further enhance their sustainability by using renewable energy sources or even installing their own photovoltaic systems for charging.
As the percentage of electricity generated from renewable sources increases, the carbon footprint of electric mobility will continue to improve. This ongoing "energy revolution" demonstrates the long-term potential of electric vehicles in combating climate change and highlights why vehicles like the electric VW Crafter are shaping the future of sustainable transportation in the commercial sector.

Performance and Practicality

The electric VW Crafter has set new standards for zero-emission use in urban centers since its debut in 2016. This innovative vehicle combines impressive performance with practical features, making it an ideal choice for businesses operating in city environments.

Range and Charging Time

The e-Crafter has an official range of 107 miles according to the WLTP standard. However, real-world usage typically translates to around 60 miles, which is sufficient for many urban-based last-mile delivery firms. This range aligns with Volkswagen's research, suggesting most van drivers cover between 40 and 60 miles per day.
Charging options for the e-Crafter are versatile. Using a standard mains socket, a full charge takes approximately 17 hours. However, most operators are likely to opt for more efficient charging methods. A 7.2kW wallbox can fully charge the vehicle in about five hours, while public CCS charging points can provide an 80% charge in just 45 minutes. This rapid charging capability allows drivers to top up during breaks, enhancing the van's practicality for businesses with demanding schedules.

Payload Capacity

Despite its electric powertrain, the e-Crafter maintains impressive cargo capabilities. It offers a load volume of approximately 11.3 cubic meters and a maximum load compartment height of 1,961 mm. Depending on the model, businesses can choose between payloads of 0.975 or 1.72 tons, corresponding to gross vehicle weights of 3.5 and 4.25 tons respectively.
Volkswagen's foresight in designing the latest Crafter to accommodate electric power has paid off. The lithium-ion batteries sit neatly under the bay floor, ensuring they don't impact the loading capacity. This design allows the e-Crafter to maintain the same 10.7m3 space and 1,861mm interior height as its diesel counterpart, providing businesses with the flexibility they need for various transportation tasks.

Driving Experience Electric VW Crafter Lease

The e-Crafter delivers a driving experience that combines power with efficiency. Its 100-kilowatt electric motor, equivalent to 134 horsepower, propels the vehicle to a top speed of 50 mph. The van benefits from up to 290 Nm of torque, ensuring powerful acceleration even when loaded. This performance characteristic is particularly useful in urban environments, allowing the e-Crafter to dart away from traffic lights efficiently, even with a full payload.
The driving dynamics of the e-Crafter are optimized for urban use. It features tight and sharp steering, making it easy to maneuver in city streets. The suspension has been set up to handle lumps and bumps effectively, providing a comfortable ride for drivers who spend long hours on the road. Moreover, the even weight distribution and lower center of gravity, resulting from the battery position, contribute to excellent stability around corners.
The e-Crafter also incorporates advanced features to enhance the driving experience. It includes lane-keep assist, adding an extra layer of safety for drivers navigating busy urban environments. The vehicle's interior can be pre-conditioned to a set temperature, and the heated seats can be warmed up in advance while the e-Crafter is still plugged in. This feature helps minimize battery use and range depletion on particularly hot or cold days, optimizing the van's performance in various weather conditions.
In conclusion, the electric VW Crafter combines practical features with impressive performance, making it a compelling choice for businesses operating in urban environments. Its range, charging capabilities, payload capacity, and driving experience are all tailored to meet the demands of city-based commercial operations, positioning it as a leader in the electric commercial vehicle market.

Conclusion Electric VW Crafter Lease

The electric VW Crafter has a significant influence on the future of van leasing, offering businesses a green and cost-effective solution for their transportation needs. Its blend of eco-friendly features, practical design, and flexible leasing options makes it a top choice for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint and adapt to stricter emissions rules. The van's impressive range, quick charging capabilities, and spacious cargo area show it's not just good for the environment, but also great for everyday business use.
VW Crafter Price
As cities push for cleaner air and companies prioritize sustainability, vehicles like the electric VW Crafter are set to play a crucial role in shaping commercial transportation. The growing charging network and government incentives make the switch to electric vans more doable than ever. While the e-Crafter is currently off the UK market, its expected return in 2026 hints at an exciting future for electric commercial vehicles. This shift towards electric vans isn't just a trend – it's a glimpse into a greener, more efficient future for businesses on the move.

FAQs

1. What is the driving range of the Electric VW Crafter on a full charge?
   The Electric VW Crafter can travel approximately 115 kilometers on a fully charged battery. However, the actual range can vary based on several factors such as weather conditions, road types, usage of air conditioning, and driving habits.

 

1. What is the maximum speed of the Electric VW Crafter?
   The Electric VW Crafter, equipped with a 100-kilowatt electric motor and capable of generating up to 290 Nm of torque, can reach a top speed of 50 miles per hour, even when carrying more than a ton of load.

 

1. Who are the main competitors of the VW Crafter in the electric van market?
   The VW Crafter primarily competes with the TGE and Sprinter. Other notable competitors include the Ford Transit, Citroen Relay, Peugeot Boxer, Fiat Ducato, Renault Master, and Vauxhall Movano.

 

1. What is the lifespan of a Volkswagen Crafter?
   A Volkswagen Crafter is generally expected to last up to 168,000 miles before it may require significant overhauls or replacement, marking its upper limit of life expectancy.