Features
26 Jul 22

Overview of newest EVs you must consider for your European fleet 

Audi
BMW
Volkswagen Group
Dacia
Citroën
Nissan

Updated on 25 July 2022

If anything, the EV market is expanding rapidly, mainly in the shape of crossovers and towards lower market segments. EV prices now start at €17k (plus VAT, before incentives), but this threshold will lower even further. TCO parity (or supremacy) vis-à-vis ICE is more feasible than ever. 

The fleet-oriented European, Japanese and South Korean brands are putting the pedal to the metal with a model offensive that will cover most every segment. They have gained valuable experience over the years and have in the meantime developed bespoke EV platforms from which a multitude of variants are derived.

The role of the new Chinese models in the democratisation of EVs should not be underestimated either. They add to the vitality and diversity of the market and often have the advantage of being readily available. As to their safety credentials, most of them can pride themselves on 5 Euro NCAP stars.

Staying up to date is crucial for every Fleet Manager looking to ensure TCO optimisation and employee satisfaction. This chronological overview per segment will be updated regularly with new models as they come to market in 2022.

Small vehicles

Dacia Spring

Technically unchanged, Dacia revised the most affordable EV on the market giving it more visual appearance. Too bad it didn’t look after the very basic interior... 

  • Battery size: 27 kWh
  • Range: +/- 225 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 6.6 kW (5 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 30 kW (1 hr)
  • Competitors: smart EQ Fortwo

 

Compact vehicles

BMW iX1

Much like its bigger brother, iX3, the X1 accompanies its combustion models with an all-electric version called ‘i’ featuring a dual motor powertrain and brand renowned residual value.

  • Battery size: 68 kWh
  • Range: 438 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 - 22 kW (7 hrs - 3 hrs 30 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 130 kW (29 mins) 
  • Competitors: Mercedes EQA, Volvo XC40/C40 Recharge, Lexus RZ450e, Genesis GV60

Citroën ë-C4 X

While the ë-C4 hits the heart of the fleet market, this X version with a sleeker looking boot is an attempt at adding even more spice. More to the taste of southern than northern markets.

  • Battery size: 50 kWh
  • Range: +/- 360 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (5 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 100 kW (30 mins)
  • Competitors: Opel Mokka-e, Hyundai Kona, Kia e-Niro

Genesis GV60

A more luxurious version of Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, indeed, but Genesis woos the corporate customer with valet services, a personal assistance for the purchase process, transparant pricing and ultra-rapid charging.

  • Battery size: 77.4 kWh
  • Range: 465 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (8 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 233 kW (17 mins) 
  • Competitors: BMW iX1, Mercedes EQA, Volvo XC40/C40 Recharge, Lexus RZ450e

MG 5 

Surprisingly, Chinese car maker MG’s third model hits a long-time sweet spot in the European compact class. It is the first all-electric station wagon and sits on a dedicated platform.

  • Battery size: 52.5 kWh
  • Range: +/- 344 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 6.6 kW (8 hrs 45 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 80 kW (36 mins)
  • Competitors: none

Kia Niro EV

For Kia, ecological thinking stretches beyond a competitive electric driveline. That’s way the Niro uses recylced materials in its interior while introducing water-based paints for a smaller environmental impact. 

  • Battery size: 68.0 kWh
  • Range: 463 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (7 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 80 kW (41 mins) 
  • Competitors: VW ID.3, MG 4, Hyundai Kona Electric

Lexus RZ 450e

The first bespoke Lexus EV is a technical twin to the Toyota bZ4x sharing its pioneering by-wire steering but adding a more luxurious touch thanks to a higher grade finish in the interior. 

  • Battery size: 71.4 kWh
  • Range: 365 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (7 hrs 45 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 150 kW (32 mins) 
  • Competitors: BMW iX1, Mercedes EQA, Volvo XC40/C40 Recharge

MG4

As the first Chinese brand in Europe, MG continues to surprise with this compact hatch MG 4 built on a ground-up new platform with exemplary range and distinct styling.

  • Battery size: 51.0 or 64.0 kWh
  • Range: +/- 350 - 450 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (5 hrs 30 mins - 7 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 100 - 125 kW (32 - 31 mins)
  • Competitors: VW ID.3, Smart #1, Peugeot e-2008, DS 3 E-Tense
     

Smart #1

Smart’s first cross-over joins the all-electric club and is a far stretch from the tiny city cars it’s famous for. With a long range and ample power this first product collaboration between Mercedes and Geely is to be reckoned with.

  • Battery size: 66 kWh
  • Range: +/- 440 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 - 22 kW (7 hrs 15 mins - 3 hrs 30 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 150 kW (29 mins)
  • Competitors: VW ID.3, MG 4, Peugeot e-2008, DS 3 E-Tense

Subaru Solterra*

Technical twin to the Toyota bz4X, with parallel equipment and configuration. As a reputed off-road specialist Subaru claims that its first BEV will also be able to scout off the beaten track.

  • Battery size: 71.4 kWh
  • Range: +/- 450 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (tbc)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): (tbc)
  • Competitors: VW ID.4, Tesla Model Y, Toyota bZ4x

Toyota bZ4x*

After some hesitation Toyota enters its first purpose-built BEV which introduces a comprehensive leasing package approach. One battery option comes with two drivelines of the same output.

  • Battery size: 71.4 kWh
  • Range: +/- 450 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (tbc)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): (tbc)
  • Competitors: VW ID.4, Tesla Model Y, Subaru Solterra 

Volvo C40

Positioned not below but next to the XC40, this all-electric coupé-inspired crossover marks a new era for Volvo – one that involves online sales only.

  • Battery size: 78 kWh
  • Range: +/- 420 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time):  11 kW (8 hrs 15 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 150 kW (32 mins)
  • Competitors: Mercedes-Benz EQA, Lexus UX300e

Midsized vehicles

MG Marvel R

The Marvel R is MG’s answer to the VW ID.4. Its 19.4” display seems to have been designed to woo Tesla-fans.

  • Battery size: 70 kWh
  • Range: +/- 400 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (7 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 90 kW (40 mins)  
  • Competitors: Skoda Enyaq iV, VW ID4, Nissan Ariya

Mobilize Limo

With the Limo Renault’s mobility arm has launched a propriety vehicle as a complete mobility and service package to commercial and private ride services - not available to private customers. It serves the rising ride-hailing market.

  • Battery size: 60 kWh
  • Range: 450 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): unknown
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): unkonwn   
  • Competitors: none 

Nissan Ariya*

This midsized crossover aims at the premium competition rather than the mainstream rivals. There will be various battery sizes to choose from.

  • Battery size: 65 – 90 kWh
  • Range: +/- 360 - 500 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 7.4 – 22 kW (4 hrs 45 mins – 10 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 130 kW (30 – 40 mins)
  • Competitors: Skoda Enyaq iV, VW ID.4

BMW i4

This electric ‘4 Series GranCoupé’ features state-of-the-art e-power technology and a digital wow experience. 

  • Battery size : 82 kWh
  • Range: +/- 510 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (8 hrs 45 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 200 kW (30 mins)
  • Competitors: Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2, Ford Mustang Mach-E

Audi Q4 e-tron

The VW ID4 derived Audi Q4 e-tron is ready to face the BMW iX3 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Coupé lovers can opt for the Sportback version. 

  • Battery size: 80 kWh
  • Range: up to 520 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (9 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 125 kW (33 mins)
  • Competitors: BMW iX3, Ford Mustang Mach-E

Mercedes-Benz EQB 

Just like the EQA, the EQB will be available as a 250, 300 and 350 model. Its 7-seat configuration is a major asset, but don’t expect E Class comfort.

  • Battery size: 66 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 400 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (tbc) 
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 100 kW (tbc) 
  • Competitors: VW ID.4, Skoda Enyaq iV, Ioniq 5, Kia EV6

Skoda Enyaq iV Coupé

Sportier alter ego to the well-received Enyaq that’s a rising star in corporate circles. Drivelines and practicality are comparable, but range is actually marginally better.

  • Battery size: 62 or 82 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 412 - 534 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (6 hrs 15 mins - 8 hrs 15 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 50 – 135 kW (30 mins - 64 mins)  
  • Competitors: VW ID.5, Kia EV6

Kia EV6

The most powerful street-legal Kia takes the shape of a striking cross-over with a state-of-the-art electric drivetrain, just like the Ioniq 5.

  • Battery size: 62 or 82.5 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 400 - 510 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (6h15mins – 8h30mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 175 – 250 kW  (18mins) 
  • Competitors: Skoda Enyaq iV, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Ioniq 5, VW ID.4

Large

Audi e-tron GT

The poor man’s Porsche Taycan? Maybe, but it offers more value for money and turns at least as many heads in the street.

  • Battery size: 93 kWh 
  • Range: 487 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (9h15mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 270 kW (21 mins)  
  • Competitors: Tesla Model S, Mercedes-Benz EQS, Porsche Taycan

BMW iX

This Bavarian maverick offers plenty of room and comfort in a striking package that tells you this is a grand tourer EV.

  • Battery size: 70 or 100 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 420 - 620 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (7h30min – 11h)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 150 – 200 kW (34-40 minutes)  
  • Competitors: Tesla Model X

BYD Tang EV

Another Chinese BEV SUV exploring the European market through Norway. Uses a Blade Battery, which has a chemistry aimed at significantly reducing fire risks.   

  • Battery size: 86 kWh
  • Range: +/- 400 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 7,0 kW (11 hrs 30 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 110 kW (42 mins)
  • Competitors: Nio ES8, Mercedes EQC, Tesla Model Y

Lucid Air

Super-fast charging American luxury contender has the Mercedes EQS in its sights with the biggest battery in the business providing ample range. Set for launch in Europe in 2022.    

  • Battery size: 88-112 kWh
  • Range: +/- 540-630 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 22,0 kW (4 hrs 45 mins – 5 hrs 45 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 240 kW (16 - 19 mins)
  • Competitors: Tesla Model S, Mercedes EQS

Mercedes EQE

Mercedes is the first German premium manufacturer to electrify the traditional segment of executive sedans. The battery-powered E-Class is a decontented EQS using the same bespoke platform. 

  • Battery size: 100 kWh
  • Range: +/-  660 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 22,0 kW (5 hrs)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 170 kW (33 mins)
  • Competitors: Tesla Model S 

BMW i7

Munich’s flagship goes zero-emission trying to push boundaries with a provocative styling, a voluminous battery with subsequent range and splendid ride comfort thanks to unprecedented detail to noise insulation.

  • Battery size: 105.0 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 625 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (11 hrs 15 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 195 kW (35 mins)  
  • Competitors: Mercedes EQS, Lucid Air, Lightyear 0

Lightyear 0

Made available to corporate drivers by Leaseplan, the Lightyear 0 is the world’s first production EV assisted by solar panels on roof and bonnet, capable of not needing to plug in the battery for weeks. When charging infrastructure is a challenge, the 0 offers a solution - albeit an expensive one. Also available as car sharing.

  • Battery size: 60.0 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 1,000 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 - 22 kW (6 hrs 30 mins - 3 hrs 15 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 75 kW (44 mins)  
  • Competitors: BMW i7, Mercedes EQS, Lucid Air

Mercedes EQS SUV

It’s very much what its name says: a higher positioned, more bulky and muscular version of the luxury saloon EQS. Though a heavy beast, the enormous battery still offers a range exceeding 500 kilometers. 

  • Battery size: 120.0 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 507 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 - 22 kW (11 hrs 45 mins - 5 hrs 45 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 207 kW (32 mins)  
  • Competitors: Audi E-Tron, BMW iX

Xpeng P7

The Xpeng P7 sedan joins the SUV G3 in Norway as a budget rival for the Tesla Model S. Next year all the Xpeng models should be available throughout Scandinavia and major markets as the Netherlands.  

  • Battery size: 81 kWh
  • Range: +/- 530 km
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (7 hrs 30 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 80 kW (60 mins)
  • Competitors: Tesla Model S

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

The ID.Buzz ticks all the boxes to become a fleet favorite. What’s not to like with an iconic design, exemplary habitability, peak-charging convenience, top-notch ADAS systems and even bi-directional charging? 

  •  Battery size: 77.0 kWh 
  • Range: +/- 423 km 
  • AC charging (0-100% SoC time): 11 kW (8 hrs 15 mins)
  • DC charging (10-80% SoC time): 170 kW (28 mins)  
  • Competitors: Mercedes EQV

 

*The specifications of models marked with an asterisk have not been confirmed and are merely indicative.

Read all about the road to CO2 neutrality, green car policies, controlling your TCO and smart charging in Fleet Europe Magazine 121

Authored by: Piet Andries
New Energies
Europe