LEVC VN5: London's Electric Van Revolution

The London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC), renowned globally for its iconic black cabs, is making a significant stride into the commercial vehicle sector with the launch of its innovative VN5 van. This exciting new offering is more than just a delivery vehicle; it's a testament to LEVC's commitment to sustainable urban transport, leveraging the proven technology of its TX London taxi to deliver a robust, efficient, and environmentally conscious solution for businesses across the UK and beyond. Available for order now, with deliveries commencing at the end of 2020, the VN5 promises to blend distinctive appearance with pioneering electric range-extender capabilities, setting a new benchmark for clean, green commercial operations.

What is the LEVC VN5?

The LEVC VN5 is the highly anticipated production version of a new electric van, meticulously engineered from the same robust platform and advanced range-extender electric vehicle technology that underpins the celebrated TX London taxi. This strategic lineage means the VN5 inherits a legacy of durability, reliability, and an impressive turning circle – a crucial advantage for navigating congested city streets. Priced from £46,500 (excluding VAT but before any applicable grants), the VN5 is eligible for the UK plug-in car grant of up to £8,000, making it a more accessible investment for businesses looking to electrify their fleets. Its name, VN5, cleverly combines 'VN' for van with '5' representing its 5.5 cubic metres load capacity, clearly signalling its purpose and capability.

Unveiled as a solution for businesses seeking to project a clean, green image, the VN5 is also designed for an exceptionally long working life. Its distinctive appearance ensures brand visibility, while its innovative construction promises longevity far beyond conventional vans. Manufactured at LEVC’s ultra-modern factory in Ansty, Warwickshire – one of the newest car-building plants in the UK – the VN5 embodies British engineering and innovation, ready to tackle the demands of modern logistics with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

Revolutionary eCity Technology: Power and Range

At the heart of the LEVC VN5 lies the sophisticated eCity range-extender electric drive system, a technology shared directly with its TX taxi sibling. This system is not a traditional plug-in hybrid; rather, LEVC prefers to call it a range-extender because the electric motor is the sole power source driving the rear wheels. A 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine acts purely as a generator, kicking in to produce electricity for the electric motor once the battery charge depletes. This innovative approach ensures that drivers always have power, eliminating range anxiety that can be a barrier for pure electric vehicles.

The VN5 boasts a WLTP-certified electric-only range of up to 61 miles from its 31kWh battery, making it ideal for emissions-free urban deliveries. When combined with its petrol range-extender, the total driving range extends to an impressive 304 miles from a 36-litre fuel tank. This extensive combined range positions the VN5 as a perfect 'delivery to door' solution, allowing businesses to undertake longer journeys without needing frequent recharges or refuels, unlike 'last mile' pure electric alternatives. Charging is also remarkably quick, with 50kW DC rapid charging capability allowing a full charge in just 30 minutes. Even the standard 11kW AC charger provides efficient top-ups, with the Ultima trim offering an optional 22kW AC charger. With two charging ports conveniently located at the front, the VN5 is exceptionally well-equipped for various charging scenarios.

Engineered for Endurance: The VN5's Unique Build

The LEVC VN5 stands apart in the commercial vehicle market thanks to its groundbreaking bonded-aluminium construction. Unlike traditional steel vans that are welded, the VN5's aluminium structure is glued together – a process that LEVC states is four times stronger with aluminium. This advanced manufacturing technique significantly contributes to weight reduction, a critical factor when carrying a 400kg battery pack, and enhances the vehicle's overall durability and safety. Aluminium's inherent resistance to rust, combined with its ability to absorb twice the crash energy of mild steel, ensures a longer, safer operational life.

Further enhancing its resilience, the aluminium structure is clad with SMC (sheet moulding compound) panelling. This composite material is specifically designed to be resistant to dents and to 'shrug off minor impacts', providing an extra layer of protection against the inevitable knocks and scrapes of daily commercial use. As a result of this innovative design and material choice, LEVC boldly predicts that the VN5 will have twice the service life of a conventional steel van. Despite the use of cutting-edge materials, LEVC assures that repairs will not be difficult, as these materials have been common in high-end cars for decades, meaning any competent, modern bodyshop should be able to handle damage effectively.

Practicality Redefined: Space and Manoeuvrability

While LEVC classifies the VN5 as a medium van, it cleverly balances load capacity with exceptional urban agility. Its single body size offers a load volume of 5.5 cubic metres, capable of accommodating two full-size Euro pallets. The design maximises practicality, featuring a 2.4m long load floor, a 1,038mm side door opening (allowing pallet loading from the side), and 60:40 split rear doors that can open to 180 degrees for unhindered access. Customers can also choose between single, double, or no side doors to suit their specific operational needs.

One of the VN5's most remarkable attributes, inherited directly from its taxi DNA, is its incredible manoeuvrability. With an astonishing 10.1m turning circle, it can navigate tight urban environments and busy loading docks with ease, a significant advantage over many rivals. Its roof height is kept to a practical 1.99m, ensuring compatibility with most car parks and urban loading bays. However, due to the rear-mounted electric motor, the load floor is notably high, which might require some adjustment for loading. Despite this, the load space itself is reasonably squared-off, with a width of approximately 1,120mm between the rear wheel arches, optimising usable volume.

While the VN5's maximum payload of 830kg is respectable for an electric van, it is somewhat less than the best conventional diesel medium vans, which can carry nearly 1,500kg, or even some pure electric rivals that exceed 1,200kg. However, LEVC's research suggests that a significant proportion of vans are rarely fully loaded, making the VN5's capacity sufficient for many urban delivery applications.

Comparative Payload Overview

Tailored for Business: Trim Levels and Features

The LEVC VN5 is offered in three distinct trim levels – Business, City, and Ultima – allowing businesses to select a specification that best suits their operational requirements and budget. Even the entry-level Business trim comes generously equipped, featuring autonomous emergency braking, four airbags, dual-zone climate control, a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and cruise control, providing a high level of safety and convenience as standard.

Stepping up to the City specification adds further enhancements, including a heated windscreen, front and rear parking sensors, two additional airbags for enhanced safety, and a lane-departure warning system. For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and features, the Ultima trim boasts luxury seats, a rear-view camera, and metallic paint as standard. Furthermore, LEVC offers a range of option packs, such as the Comfort Pack (adding luxury seats with storage, sat-nav, and heated windscreen) and the Safety Pack (including road-sign recognition, intelligent speed limiter, and curtain airbags), allowing for bespoke customisation. A variety of accessories like seat covers, floor mats, and device holders are also available, ensuring the VN5 can be perfectly tailored to any business's needs.

Behind the Wheel: Driving Experience

The driving experience of the LEVC VN5 is largely anticipated to mirror that of its taxi counterpart, the TX eCity, which has garnered significant praise. The TX eCity is known for being remarkably comfortable and genuinely enjoyable to drive. Powered by a 110kW (150hp) electric motor – the same unit found in the VN5 – it delivers impressive performance at both city speeds and on motorways. The battery life is robust, and the electric motor provides instant torque for swift acceleration, a valuable asset in stop-start urban traffic.

Inside the cab, drivers will find a compact yet well-appointed environment. While the high floor might take some getting used to, the overall build and material quality are more than acceptable, even on early prototypes. The cab features reach and rake adjustable steering, a digital instrument cluster, and a large central infotainment screen. These components are familiar from the TX taxi, and indeed, from Volvo vehicles, thanks to LEVC's ownership by Chinese automotive giant Geely, which also owns the Swedish brand. This shared DNA ensures a refined and modern driving environment, making the VN5 a strong contender against more established van manufacturers.

Unbeatable Value: Running Costs and Warranty

While the initial purchase price of the LEVC VN5 might seem substantial, starting at £46,500, its long-term running costs and comprehensive warranty package present a compelling value proposition. LEVC has extensive data from its TX taxis, which have collectively covered over 100 million miles in just two years. This real-world usage demonstrates the eCity drivetrain's reliability and its significant economic benefits. A full charge for the VN5 can cost as little as £2 with an optimised electricity supplier, translating to running costs as low as 2 pence-per-mile (ppm), a stark contrast to the typical 11ppm for a diesel alternative.

Furthermore, as a zero-emissions capable vehicle (when running on electricity alone), the VN5 is exempt from the London ULEZ charge, saving businesses £12.50 per day. Similar savings are expected as other UK cities introduce their own clean air zones. The petrol range-extender also ensures the van won't fall foul of any future diesel bans. LEVC offers an industry-leading five-year / 150,000-mile total vehicle warranty, with the battery pack covered for eight years. This can even be extended to six years / 200,000 miles, providing exceptional peace of mind. Servicing intervals are set at a generous 25,000 miles, and LEVC aims to ensure no customer is more than 45 minutes from their nearest service centre, addressing potential concerns about network coverage for a newer brand. The combination of low running costs, long warranty, and strong predicted residual values makes the VN5 a smart, strategic investment for businesses looking to future-proof their operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the van called the VN5?

Following the naming convention set by LEVC's TX taxis, the van is designated 'VN' as an abbreviation for 'van'. The '5' refers to its load capacity of 5.5 cubic metres.

Who owns LEVC?

LEVC (London Electric Vehicle Company) is owned by the Chinese automotive giant Geely. Geely acquired the former London Taxi Company in 2013 and rebranded it to LEVC in 2017, signalling a shift towards electric commercial vehicle production beyond just taxis.

What is the driving range of the LEVC VN5 electric van?

The VN5 has a WLTP-certified electric-only range of 61 miles from its 31kWh battery. With the 1.5-litre petrol range-extender engine, the total claimed driving range is over 300 miles (specifically 304 miles).

Why is the VN5 made out of aluminium?

The VN5 features a unique bonded-aluminium construction. Aluminium is used to keep weight down, enhance durability, and improve safety by absorbing twice the crash energy of mild steel. It also doesn't rust in the same way as traditional steel vans.

Will the VN5 be difficult to repair?

LEVC states that despite the advanced materials, the VN5 will not be difficult to repair. Aluminium structures have been used in cars for decades, and any competent, modern bodyshop should be capable of fixing damage.

What are the service intervals and warranty for the VN5?

Service intervals for the VN5 are set at 25,000 miles. It comes with a five-year / 150,000-mile total vehicle warranty, with the battery pack covered for eight years. This can be extended to six years / 200,000 miles for the vehicle and eight years / 200,000 miles for the battery.

How practical is the LEVC VN5?

The VN5 offers a 5.5 cubic metres load volume, capable of carrying two Euro pallets, and features flexible door configurations. Its compact dimensions and exceptional 10.1m turning circle make it highly practical for urban driving and manoeuvring in tight spaces. However, the load floor is notably high due to the rear-mounted electric motor.

What is the payload of the LEVC VN5?

The LEVC VN5 has a maximum payload capacity of 830kg. This figure may be slightly lower for higher specification models.

Are there different versions of the VN5 available?

Yes, the VN5 is available in a single body size but offered in three trim levels: Business, City, and Ultima. Additionally, various option packs and accessories allow for further customisation to meet specific business needs.

What's the VN5 like inside the cab?

The cab interior of the VN5 is compact but features acceptable build and material quality. It includes a digital instrument cluster and a large central infotainment screen, with many components sourced from Volvo due to shared ownership by Geely, providing a modern and refined feel.

Will the VN5 be very expensive to run?

Quite the opposite. LEVC projects running costs as low as 2 pence-per-mile, significantly less than diesel alternatives. The VN5 also benefits from London ULEZ exemption and avoids potential diesel bans, leading to substantial daily savings for businesses operating in urban areas.

How much is the LEVC VN5 and when does it go on sale?

The starting price for the LEVC VN5 is £46,500 (plus VAT, before grants). It became available to order in late 2020, with deliveries commencing towards the end of the year.

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