Vauxhall’s Vivaro-e Life, launched late last year as the next step in the electrification of the Vauxhall model range, represents a versatile solution for everyone from local authorities to private buyers who need a sustainable people carrier.
Available in Edition and Elite trim levels and described as a ‘lounge on wheels’ the Vivaro-e Life comes with a fully electric powertrain for a smoother, quieter and more luxurious journey, and a powerful battery that provides a range of up to 143 miles on one charge.
With electric sliding rear side doors, movable leather seats and panorama roof, the latest Vauxhall EV combines practicality and flexibility with capability, powered by a 50kWh lithium-ion battery connected to a 100kW/136hp electric motor with 260Nm of torque, the Vivaro-e Life accelerates from 0-62mph in 13.1 seconds.
The Edition model can seat up to nine passengers, including the driver, and is priced from £34,645 after the Plug-in Van Grant, while the Elite features luxurious Lounge trim as standard and includes massage function and electric heating for the front seats, with four movable leather chairs behind to allow passengers to sit facing each. Both models are available in the long body design and the Elite is priced from £46,415.
While the Vivaro-e Life is based on the same Efficient Modular Platform (EMP2) as its diesel derivatives, it delivers the smooth, refined, sustainable and silent performance you can only get from a 100 per cent electric model.
Sustainable and efficient
Both the Edition and Elite derivatives feature an automatic transmission for seamless power delivery, with three driving modes to suit a range of situations. Eco mode minimises energy consumption, providing 60kW and 190Nm of torque, while Normal mode is optimised for daily driving, providing 80kW and 210Nm of torque. Power mode provides increased performance for heavier loads, with 100kW/136hp and 260Nm of torque
Regenerative braking helps to recharge the battery using the energy usually lost when braking or decelerating, with two levels of brake energy recovery available. The ‘D’ setting provides brake feel close to conventional petrol or diesel model, while ‘B’ delivers increased deceleration and greater energy regeneration when the accelerator is released.
Get connected
Inside, the Vivaro-e Life features a unique instrument cluster with chrome-ringed dials and is available with Multimedia and Multimedia Navi touchscreen infotainment systems – which both feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – can display live energy flow graphics, energy consumption data and even allow customers to programme timed charging through the MyVauxhall app.
Customers can access a range of connected services using the app, which provides remote control of charging and cabin temperature pre-conditioning. The new Vivaro-e Life also features an intuitive Electronic Parking Brake and while elements of the powertrain are shared with the all-new Corsa-e, the Vivaro-e Life features an uprated gearbox to withstand the increased loads associated with a large MPV.
The charging socket for the electric powertrain is located on the front left fender and all Vivaro-e Life models come with a six-metre long Mode 3 cable, complete with its own storage bag. A single-phase 7.4kW On-Board Charger is fitted as standard, with a three-phase 11kW design also available for even faster charging.
The 50kWh lithium-ion battery supports CCS rapid charging at up to 100kW, with an 80 per cent charge taking just 30 minutes, while a single-phase 32A domestic wallbox will fully charge the Vivaro-e Life in seven and a half hours, making this method perfect for overnight top-ups. The battery is also covered by an eight-year/100,000 mile warranty.
The latest data
The Vivaro-e Life’s vehicle data monitoring uses sophisticated sensors and onboard systems to provide a detailed overview of each journey. It shows range, route conditions and energy costs, so you can drive as efficiently as possible.
As safe as it is luxurious, you can relax knowing the New Vivaro-e Life has a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including lane keep assist, driver drowsiness alert, head-up display, panoramic rear-view camera and adaptive Xenon headlights.
Martyn Coles, Head of Sales – New Vehicles, at York Ward & Rowlatt, said: “The What Car Van of the Year, All-New Vivaro-e, is a versatile performer that always gets the job done, with zero emissions. And electric means low maintenance costs and no road tax.
“Additionally, with a government grant paying 20% of the purchase price up to a maximum of £8,000 to help you get started. It’s what we call a smart business choice. Please call to arrange a 24-hour demonstration drive.”
Full details of the new Vivaro-e Life are available from York Ward & Rowlatt in Wellingborough on 01933 443403 or visit www.yorkwardandrowlatt.co.uk
Head of Sales – New Vehicles at York Ward & Rowlatt
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