• World’s first all-electric seven-seat MPV
LONDON, England - Nissan will launch what it claims is the world’s first batteries-only "versatile and practical" seven-seater based on its e-NV200.
The new model has been launched after what Nissan described as "huge interest" from fleet operators and larger families keen to benefit from the e-NV200’s low running and maintenance costs and zero exhaust emissions.
Nissan South Africa says the e-NV200 is under investigation but has not yet confirmed for SA. The automaker is focusing on its only available electric car in the local market, the Leaf.
SEVERAL OPTIONS
The automaker claims prices will start at the equivalent of about R382 000 (incorporating the UK plug-in car grant) for those choosing the convenience of the Nissan Flex battery leasing option* and from R449 000 for those buying outright.
At the same time, the e-NV200 line-up will be further strengthened with the addition of a new ‘Evalia’ version available in five and seven-seat form – offering a ‘full trim’ option for combination technology, style, sophistication and comfort.
The developments mean the e-NV200 will be available as a panel van, five or seven-seat Combi, or five or seven-seat Evalia – giving customers the freedom to specify a vehicle that best suits their lifestyle or business requirements.
CUSTOMER DEMAND
The launch of the seven-seat version, says Nissan, fills a gap in the market for an electric vehicle (EV) capable of accommodating larger groups of people. Private hire companies and shuttle services in particular have been keen to see its introduction since the e-NV200 was launched in 2014.
The e-NV200, which is based on the Leaf's technology – the world’s bestselling electric car – costs from the equivalent of 39c/km to run and costs much less to maintain than a conventional diesel van.
Yet, despite the low costs of ownership, the e-NV200 offers outstanding all-round performance. It has a 170km range on a single charge and can be charged from zero to 80% full in as little as 30 minutes.
SPACE AND VERSITILITY
The seven-seat version of the e-NV200 is configured with an additional two full-size seats to the rear of the vehicle, which can be individually folded and stowed. Nissan says with all seating in use, the vehicle can accommodate seven adults, offering ample leg and headroom for all occupants. But the seven-seat e-NV200 can also be configured for cargo.
With the second row of seats rolled forward and folded and the sixth and seventh seats folded to the side, there's a big enough load area to transport three full-size bicycles with the wheels in place.
Even with all three rows in place, the seven seat e-NV200 still has 870-litres cargo capacity, allowing it to transport seven people and a large volume of luggage.
NEW TRIM
The introduction of the new Evalia trim level improves simplicity for customers, such as VIP transfer providers, looking to ‘spec’ top-of-the-line models. It comes with privacy glass (or optional clear glass) on rear windows and co-ordinated exterior detailing.