With a growing number of cities imposing access restrictions or levies on diesel vehicles, more urban delivery operators are going to need a zero-emissions alternative. The new MAN Etge is intended to satisfy that demand.

Initially, this additional variant is being offered in standard-wheelbase panel van guise with a high roof. The eTGE is front-wheel drive but, in order to accommodate a 36 kWh battery pack beneath the load area, the rear-wheel drive TGE’s bodyshell is used because of its slightly higher floor.

A maximum range of around 99 miles (160 kilometres) isn’t particularly impressive. However, MAN reckons that average daily driving distances in built-up areas rarely exceed 62 miles (100 kilometres).

While nine hours are required for a full recharge via a domestic socket, a dedicated AC wallbox is able to accomplish the task in five and a half hours. Alternatively, a 40 kW rapid charger can replenish the batteries to 80 percent capacity in forty-five minutes.

In terms of performance, a 134 bhp (100 kW / 135 PS) synchronous electric motor with 290 Nm (213 lb/ft) of immediately-available torque should provide fairly brisk acceleration. Understandably, top speed is less relevant, hence a 55 mph (90 km/h) restriction.

eTGE prices start at a considerable €69,500 (approximately £60,650 at current exchange rates). As deliveries are limited to Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway for the time being, UK customers won’t have to decide whether or not that amount is too much.

Related post:
MAN enters the LCV market with its new TGE