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Chinese-owned LDV revealed its new EV80 at the Commercial Vehicle Show this week. The new light-duty van is a zero emission, full electric vehicle featuring a lithium iron phosphate battery and permanent magnet synchronous motor, which promises a range of 350km per charge. Two models are available; a panel van in short or long wheelbase spec, and a chassis cab version which can be adapted with a range of bodies up to a max carrying capacity of 1,250 kg. The 75kwh battery can be fast-charged in two hours, and the EV80 carries over existing features from the current diesel-powered V80 version, with an electronic handbrake and hill assist system also featuring. The EV80 is expected to be available in the last quarter of 2016.
The G10 model was also in attendance on its European premiere, in panel van and MPV forms. Petrol and diesel 2.0-litre engines will be offered, both powering automatic transmissions with a manual option available on the diesel unit. Features include niceties such as cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, reversing camera and keyless entry. Safety and roadholding are aided by numerous electronic safety systems and a chassis which features input from Lotus, no less. Pricing and specification details for the G10 will be released later this year.
The new models come after LDV's purchase by SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation) in 2010. The Harris Group was recently appointed as distributor for Ireland and the UK, and hopes to add to its network of nearly 40 dealers in the near future. SAIC's investment in LDV will hit almost $3bn by 2020, so it will be interesting how the company and its products compete in the ever-changing commercial vehicle market.