Check out the new Citroen e-Berlingo

This is the new Citroen e-Berlingo, and before you sign off completely, some numbers: it's got a 100kW electric motor (134bhp in old speak), a top speed of 83mph and a claimed 170-mile range.

It’s a van with windows and seats, yes, but it’s also the latest Citroen model to be electrified in line with PSA’s aim of completely electrifying its entire line up by 2025. The e-Berlingo’s 50kWh battery pack can be re-charged from zero to 80 per cent in 30 minutes using a 100kW fast charger, while it can be fully charged in seven and a half hours using a 7.4kW wallbox.

Citroen has mounted the e-Berlingo’s battery pack under the floor, which means it retains the same impressive carrying capacity as the combustion-engined model. Buyers have a choice of two body styles, either the short version measuring 4.4m, or the er, longer version, measuring 4.75m, which also features a third removable row of seats. 

Aside from the engine, you’d be hard pressed to distinguish this Berlingo from the petrol-powered model. Outside, there’s ë lettering on the grille and tailgate, plus anodised blue front bumper inserts and Airbumps, while inside there’s a new three-stage drive mode selector and a revised infotainment system displaying battery status and charge level. 

Those three driving modes include Normal, which limits power to 80kW for everyday driving, Eco, which restricts power to 60kW and reduces heating and air conditioning to preserve energy, and Power, which enables the battery’s full 100kW for maximum fun. It’s the same setup you’ll find in the DS 3 e-tense, just with a much boxier shape to move around.

What else can we tell you? You can check charge and range levels with an app, as well as pre-set the cabin temperature on chilly days. Citroën has yet to announce pricing, but we do know it’ll be on sale in the second half of 2021. 

Thoughts, folks? Would you have this over a less practical Leaf or ID.3?