From MPG heroes to all-electric runners, hybrid vans are bridging the gap as the UK transitions from ICE to zero-emission powertrains. Currently an elusive option: here are our top hybrid van picks.
Change is afoot in the van market. Electric vans may be looming on the horizon, but based on current trends, for many people that is where they will remain — for the time being anyway. With range anxiety, lacking infrastructure, and practicality concerns continuing to stall many peoples’ EV leap of faith, diesel power remains dominant. But, there is another option out there: hybrid vans.
There is only a small selection of hybrid vans on the market, filling the middle ground between ICE and electric powertrains, and in many ways, offering the best of both worlds. With boosted range, reduced fuel costs, and in some cases the ability to run on full electric power, these are our top five hybrid vans.
5. Ford Transit
Image credit: Ford
We all know the Ford Transit. Reliable, versatile, durable… But did you know the latest iteration has a ‘segment-first’ mild hybrid (MHEV) option?
By hooking a 48-volt battery pack up to the Transit’s 2-litre diesel engine, Ford have added ‘fuel efficient’ to the large LCV’s list of strengths. Unlocking an additional 3% in efficiency compared to the straight diesel variant, jumping up to 8% in stop-start situations, the big Transit is now optimised for city environments. Although designed to take a little weight off the engine rather than amping it up, the hybrid system does also boost torque and initial responsiveness, further lending itself to the last mile delivery game.
The mild hybrid system also steers clear of any plug-in faff for those without easy access to EV charging points. And for those expanding beyond city driving, MHEVs tend to be more efficient than plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) if they end up hauling an empty battery by the end of their shift.