LeasePlan brings first large zero-emission LCV to Europe

LeasePlan and SAIC Mobility Europe, a division of the Chinese manufacturer, have agreed to bring the first large full-electric LCV to Europe.

The deal states that LeasePlan will provide operational leasing solutions for SAIC’s Maxus, a zero-emission eLCV, in continental Europe. The agreement focuses on the Maxus EV80, as well as new line extensions. 

Competitive TCO
The Maxus EV80 is the first large eLCV that can be delivered at scale. It has a competitive TCO when compared to LCVs still running on internal combustion engines (ICEs). 

It is hoped the exclusive partnership will accelerate the shift to zero-emission mobility for commercial vehicles.  

“There are hardly any LCVs on the market today that can meet the increasing demand for last-mile delivery in a sustainable way. Our new partnership with SAIC will allow LeasePlan to serve that growing need for zero-emission LCVs – and at a competitive TCO compared to ICE vans”, says Tex Gunning, CEO of LeasePlan. 

As easy as possible
“Making the transition to an electric fleet is one of the easiest ways for businesses to lower their emissions and to help tackle climate change. LeasePlan is fully committed to making it as easy as possible for all our customers to start electric.” 

Speaking ahead of the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hanover (20-27 September), Pieter Gabriëls, Managing Director of SAIC Mobility Europe, said: “Securing this new agreement with LeasePlan, a world leader in Car-as-a-Service, underlines the demand for the EV80, as well as the robust business plan for Europe which we are now putting in place.” 

Charging infrastructure
Operational leasing services provided by LeasePlan for the new, sustainable range of Maxus LCVs will include configuration and customisation, finance, insurance, fleet management, repair, maintenance, tyres and remarketing. 

In addition, LeasePlan will provide Maxus electric LCV customers with end-to-end charging infrastructure, as well as access to a network of 75,000 charging points through LeasePlan’s existing partnership with Allego.