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With all of the extra space that they offer, Luton vans are an excellent choice for companies looking to transport a large volume of goods around, such as professional removal companies. One of the most prominent manufacturers of the classic Luton van is Citroen, who have been supplying the Citroen Relay to UK customers and beyond since 2006. The Relay Luton is just one variant of this iconic van, and in 2021 the range was enhanced with the release of an battery-powered electric version: the e-Relay Luton.
Whilst the Citroen Relay Luton and e-Relay Luton are both strong contenders when it comes to your next commercial vehicle purchase, we understand that customers might not be sure of which option is best for them and the needs of their business. Not to worry, however, as in this guide we’ve compiled the advantages and pitfalls of both vehicles to help you determine which one is most suitable for you.
Engines and Spec
A 2019 upgrade to the Citroen Relay range ushered in a number of changes, including a shift to new 2.2-litre BlueHDi engines in order to meet Euro 6.2 regulations. As a result, customers are given a choice of two power outputs: 120hp / 310Nm and 140hp / 340Nm. Although these numbers might make the Relay seem less powerful than some of its rivals, it’s really only the 140hp that will feel under-powered when driving it fully loaded, as Citroen’s large vans tend to be pretty light as a whole. The Relay Luton also boasts a tight turning circle, which when combined with light steering makes it easy to handle when driving at slower speeds around town.
We’ll now move onto the e-Relay Luton, which comes equipped with a 75kWh battery and a generous driving range of 154 miles. If you can find a 50kW public charger, it will impressively charge up to 85% in as little as 45 minutes. However, a more common 7kW charger that you’re likely to have available at your home or workplace will take up to 12 hours, but this is naturally acceptable if you’re leaving it overnight to charge.
Thanks to the fact that the e-Relay Luton’s battery is stored underneath the floor, the load space is not at all compromised. This means that both diesel and electric vans boast an internal length and width of 3480 mm x 2057 mm for the L3 model, and 4150mm x 2057mm for the L4 model. The payload is similarly impressive, with the L3 model capable of carrying 1147kg and the L4 model 979 kg. Naturally, the Luton design only adds to the practicality of these trusty vans, simply through the use of the additional space above the cab, which offers room for small, light items, such as load securing straps. Regardless of which model they choose, drivers tasked with transporting heavy equipment or items certainly won’t find themselves compromising on load space or performance in either van.
Both Luton vans are made up of high-quality GRP panels fitted onto a galvanised steel and aluminium frame, making the bodywork incredibly robust. There is also an option for either model to be manufactured with lightweight panels and framework if you wish to increase the payload rating by an extra 80kg. An optional tail lift is also available with a capacity of 500kg, which is ideal for easy loading and unloading.
Interior
For a Luton van of its age, the Relay offers a pleasant driving environment, with good forward visibility and split door mirrors with lower sections that can be angled downwards – particularly useful for parking in tight spots. Electric windows and electrically adjustable mirrors come as standard, along with a drop-down desk unit stored behind the dual passenger seat and a CD stereo. In-cab storage is generous, and includes two glove compartments, a dashboard-mounted document clip, sizable door pockets, an area beneath the passenger seat and a 22-litre overhead compartment. The driver’s seat is extremely comfortable and can be chosen with its own suspension – ideal if you’re going to be spending long hours on the road.
The e-Relay Luton makes use of the same hardwearing materials in its cab as its diesel counterpart, and similarly has a good amount of storage space dotted around. Drivers and passengers alike will be pleased to find that there is more than enough room for three adults to sit comfortably, with even the middle passenger seat offering plenty of legroom. Naturally, like with all electric conversions, the gear lever has been removed and replaced with an intuitive button design to switch between drive modes with ease, whilst all of the necessary information you need – battery level, remaining range and current driving mode – is conveniently displayed on the rear view mirror. This does mean, however, that the instrument cluster is rendered redundant, showing you the speed and nothing else.
The Verdict/Snap shot
Both the Citroen Relay Luton and e-Relay Luton are ideal choices if your job requires you to regularly transport hefty loads, such as large pallets or heavy, awkward cargo. Choosing between the two, ultimately comes down to the needs of your business, but naturally the e-Relay Luton offers a far more sustainable, carbon neutral option.
If you’d like to find out more about either of these vans, please get in touch with Vanaways. We supply new commercial vans on a low-rate, zero-deposit finance basis, and each purchase includes free UK delivery.
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