Which electric commercial vehicles are suitable for long distances?
For long distances electric commercial vehicles with a range of at least 300-400 km are the most suitable. The best choices are models such as the Mercedes eVito (421 km), Ford E-Transit (317 km) and Volkswagen e-Crafter (346 km). Your success depends on good route planning, strategic charging and choosing a vehicle that suits your daily mileage. With the right preparation, electric commercial vehicles drive long distances without any problems.
What range do you need for your business activities?
The range needed depends on your daily routes, type of work and available charging facilities. For most businesses, a range of 200-250 kilometres is sufficient, but for long distances you need at least 300-400 kilometres. Always count 20-30% less than the stated WLTP values for realistic expectations.
Start by analysing your current driving pattern. Write down for a week how many kilometres you drive daily and which routes you travel most often. Remember to take seasonal influences into account: in winter, the range of electric utility vehicles 15-25% drops due to cold conditions and the use of heating.
The type of work also affects your energy consumption. Commercial vehicles that stop and start frequently (like parcel delivery) can benefit from regenerative braking, while vehicles with constant motorway mileage consume more energy at high speeds. A fully loaded commercial vehicle also consumes 10-15% more energy than an empty one.
Also look at your charging options. Can you charge at home or at the office? Then you have fewer worries about daily range. Need to fast charge on the go? Then count on 30-45 minutes of charging time for 80% battery capacity and plan this into your working day.
Which electric commercial vehicles have the greatest range?
The Mercedes eVito (421 km), Ford E-Transit (317 km) and Volkswagen e-Crafter (346 km) currently offer the greatest range for electric commercial vehicles. These models are specially designed for companies that regularly drive long distances and offer sufficient cargo space for professional use.
Available in different lengths, the Mercedes eVito offers the greatest range with its 100 kWh battery. This model is ideal for high-mileage transport and logistics companies. Cargo space ranges from 6.6 to 14.0 cubic metres, depending on the chosen version.
The Ford E-Transit combines solid range with excellent practicality. With load capacities of up to 1,758 kg and a towing capacity of 750 kg, it is a versatile choice for various industries. The vehicle supports fast charging up to 115 kW, allowing you to charge from 15% to 80% in 34 minutes.
The Volkswagen e-Crafter targets companies that transport heavy loads over long distances. With a maximum load capacity of 1,720 kg and a cargo space of up to 10.7 cubic metres, it is a powerful option for construction companies and large logistics operations.
For smaller commercial vehicles, the Volkswagen e-Caddy (265 km) and Renault Kangoo E-Tech (265 km) are good alternatives. These models offer sufficient range for regional long-distance travel and are more fuel-efficient than the larger variants.
How do you plan long trips with an electric company car?
Good route planning starts with checking charging stations along your route and reserving charging time in your planning. Use apps such as PlugShare, ChargeMap or the ANWB Onderweg app to find available charging stations. Plan charging stops at 20-30% battery capacity and charge up to a maximum of 80% for optimal charging speed.
Download multiple charging apps before you set off. Different charging networks have their own apps and rates, so make sure you have access to the major providers such as Fastned, Allego and Ionity. Save your favourite routes with proven charging points so you don't have to search every time.
Timing is important when fast charging. Preferably charge between 20% and 80% battery capacity: this is fastest. Charging from 80% to 100% takes a disproportionately long time, so plan your stops strategically. A 30-minute coffee break usually gives you enough energy for the next 200-250 kilometres.
Always have a back-up plan in place. Identify alternative charging points along your route in case your first choice is occupied or faulty. Check the status of charging points via apps before you stop. Some fast-charging stations have multiple connections, increasing your chances of availability.
Take weather conditions and traffic into account. Headwinds, rain and traffic jams increase your energy consumption. Plan extra charging time in winter 20-25% and check if heated charging stations are available for extra comfort while waiting.
What are the costs of long-distance electric driving?
Long-distance electric driving costs about €0.35-0.50 per kilometre in energy, compared with €0.15-0.25 per kilometre for diesel. Fast charging is more expensive than charging at home, but the total cost of ownership often remains lower due to lower maintenance costs and tax benefits. For companies, there are additional benefits from 2025 due to the BPM levy on new diesel vehicles.
Home charging costs around €0.25 per kWh, while fast charging can cost €0.50-0.75 per kWh. An electric commercial vehicle consumes 25-35 kWh per 100 kilometres on average, depending on the model and driving style. This means 100 kilometres of charging at home costs €6-9, while fast charging can cost €13-26.
Don't forget to factor in the time cost of charging. A charging stop of 30-45 minutes impacts your productivity, especially on regular long trips. Plan charging breaks smartly around lunch or other work activities to make this time useful.
The total cost of ownership (TCO) of electric commercial vehicles is often more favourable due to lower maintenance costs. Electric engines have fewer moving parts, no oil changes and less wear and tear on brakes due to regenerative braking. This saves €500-1,500 annually on maintenance.
Fiscally, electric commercial vehicles offer significant advantages. The additional tax is 0% for electric company cars under €50,000 and no BPM levy applies. From 2025, you do pay BPM on new diesel company cars, which makes electric driving relatively more advantageous.
How Van den Hurk helps with electric commercial vehicles
We will fully guide you through the transition to electric commercial vehicles for long distances. From determining the right range to finding the perfect financing solution, our experience of more than 60 years will help you make the best choice for your business.
Our service for electric commercial vehicles includes:
- Personal advice on the right range for your routes
- A wide range of electric commercial vehicles of all major brands
- Flexible leasing and financing options
- Transparent information on TCO and tax benefits
- Support for charging solutions and route planning
- Complete after-sales service and maintenance
We understand that switching to electric driving raises questions. That is why we take the time to analyse your specific situation and find the electric company car that perfectly suits your long distances. Whether you choose to buy or lease, we ensure a worry-free transition.
Want to know which electric company car is best for your long journeys? Contact us for personal advice. We will be happy to help you with all aspects of electric company transport.
