Maxus has commenced delivery of its zero emission EV80 vans in Europe, known as the LDV EV80 in the UK.

German operator Maske Fleet is among the first leasing companies to offer the fully electric large panel van to fleet customers, recently delivering a fleet of EV80 vans to a Hamburg-based courier service.

The EV80 van will initially be available to customers in Germany and Austria, other European markets will follow soon.

SAIC Mobility Europe, a division of China’s largest vehicle manufacturer, SAIC, starts its European activities with the introduction of the Maxus light commercial vehicle brand. Ahead of its full Europe-wide launch in 2019, Maxus is establishing partnerships with large organisations and major fleet operators that are looking to reduce their fleet emissions and vehicle operating costs.

Pieter Gabriëls, managing director of SAIC Mobility Europe, said: “With up to 200km real-life range, zero exhaust emissions and short charging time the Maxus EV80 is an ideal solution for businesses operating in urban environments. We are analysing real-world performance data to demonstrate how businesses can successfully integrate fully electric large van into their fleets, as we ramp up deliveries and fully launch the brand across Europe in 2019.”

The Maxus EV80 is available as a panel van and a chassis cab, providing practicality and extensive versatility demanded by fleet operators. The panel van features a cargo area length of 3,300 mm, width of 1,770 mm and height of 1,710 mm, resulting in a total volume of 10.2 cubic metres, accessible through wide-opening rear and side doors. The maximum payload capacity is 950kg. The chassis cab is similarly competitive in its capabilities and offers a maximum towing mass of 750 kg.