Vauxhall, the UK arm of automotive giant Stellantis, is making a strategic move in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of two new electric MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles): the Vauxhall Combo Life Electric and Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric. These electric people carriers target a growing segment – families and businesses seeking eco-friendly transportation solutions without compromising on space, practicality, or comfort.
The Rise of the Electric MPV
The EV landscape is rapidly evolving, with new segments emerging to meet diverse consumer needs. Traditional SUVs are getting electrified, but there's a gap for those who require maximum passenger and cargo capacity. Enter the electric MPV, a vehicle category poised for significant growth.
Vauxhall's electric MPV offerings, the Combo Life Electric and Vivaro Life Electric, cater to this growing demand. They offer a unique blend of:
- Spacious interiors: The Combo Life Electric offers up to 4,000 liters of cargo space with the seats folded, while the Vivaro Life Electric boasts an even more impressive 4,900 liters. This makes them ideal for families with bulky gear like bikes and strollers, or businesses transporting equipment and supplies.
- Flexible seating configurations: Both models offer multiple seating configurations. The Combo Life Electric features individually removable seats in the second row, allowing for maximum customization based on passenger and cargo needs. The Vivaro Life Electric can be configured with four independent seats that swivel and recline, creating a comfortable and versatile cabin for passengers.
- Long electric range: With a maximum range of 217 miles (350 km) for the Vivaro Life Electric equipped with the larger battery, these Vauxhall electric MPVs offer peace of mind for longer journeys. This eliminates range anxiety, a common concern for potential EV buyers, and makes them suitable for both daily commutes and weekend road trips.
- Zero-emission driving: Contributing to a cleaner environment and potentially lower running costs. Electric vehicles boast significantly lower energy consumption compared to gasoline-powered cars. Additionally, many governments offer incentives for EV ownership, such as tax breaks and rebates, further reducing the total cost of ownership.
Combo Life Electric: The Family-Friendly Electric Hauler
The Combo Life Electric is designed with families in mind. This compact MPV comes in two lengths, a standard 4.41 meters and a longer 4.76 meters, offering seating for up to seven passengers. Flexible seating arrangements with individual seats and a panoramic roof (optional) create a comfortable and adaptable cabin.
Here's what makes the Combo Life Electric a compelling choice for families:
- Up to 199 miles (320 km) of electric range on a single charge – enough for most everyday errands and weekend getaways. This equates to approximately five days of commuting for the average driver.
- Advanced safety features like a rearview camera, Lane Departure Warning, and Automatic Emergency Braking for peace of mind. These features are crucial for keeping families safe on the road.
- Fast charging capabilities – reaching 80% charge in just 30 minutes using a 100kW rapid charger. This makes road trips more convenient, eliminating the need for long charging breaks.
- Competitive starting price of approximately $37,000. This positions the Combo Life Electric as an affordable option for families looking to transition to an electric vehicle.
Vivaro Life Electric: Spacious Luxury for Businesses and Large Families
The Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric caters to those seeking a premium electric MPV experience. This impressive vehicle boasts two body lengths – 4.98 meters and 5.33 meters – and offers seating for up to nine passengers. High-quality materials, advanced technology, and flexible seating options make it ideal for both family adventures and business travel.
Key features of the Vivaro Life Electric include:
- Two battery pack options: a 50kWh battery with a 139-mile (224 km) range and a larger 75kWh battery delivering an impressive 217-mile (350 km) range. This allows businesses and families to choose the battery pack that best suits their needs and driving habits.
- Panoramic roof (optional) for a bright and airy atmosphere, making the cabin feel even more spacious and comfortable for passengers.
- Two battery pack options: a 50kWh battery with a 139-mile (224 km) range and a larger 75kWh battery delivering an impressive 217-mile (350 km) range. This allows businesses and families to choose the battery pack that best suits their needs and driving habits.
- Panoramic roof (optional) for a bright and airy atmosphere, making the cabin feel even more spacious and comfortable for passengers.
- Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for enhanced safety on the road. These systems include features like Blind Spot Detection, Highway Assist System, and Semi-Autonomous Emergency Braking, providing an extra layer of protection for passengers.
- Fast charging capabilities – reaching 80% charge in approximately 45 minutes using a 50kW rapid charger. This makes long journeys and business trips more convenient, ensuring minimal downtime while on the go.
- Starting price of approximately $42,400. While slightly more expensive than the Combo Life Electric, the Vivaro Life Electric offers additional space, premium features, and a longer potential range, making it a compelling option for those seeking a luxurious electric MPV experience.