Overview
The Vauxhall Movano Electric represents the heavy-duty pinnacle of the brand's zero-emission light commercial vehicle lineup. Designed to take on full-size commercial rivals such as the Ford E-Transit and Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, the latest iteration receives an upgraded massive battery pack, a significantly more powerful electric motor, and updated onboard technology. Offered in a range of panel van sizes alongside chassis cab configurations, it caters to commercial fleets and independent trades aiming to bypass urban low-emission zone charges without compromising on massive cargo capacity.
Design
The exterior aesthetic of the Movano Electric strikes a balance between practical commercial design and Vauxhall's modern corporate identity. Upfront, it features an updated front incorporating the distinctive Vizor front grille layout flanked by sleek headlights and a redesigned bumper. Aerodynamic efficiency has been given careful consideration to maximize driving range, featuring an integrated front spoiler and an active grille shutter that optimizes airflow. Prominent protective side cladding runs down the flanks, while the rear retains tall vertical tail-lights framing wide-opening double doors designed to allow unhindered access for forklifts and broad items.
Interior
Inside the cab, the Movano Electric benefits from a modernised three-seater layout tailored for intensive daily work. The dash features upgraded digital displays, including an updated infotainment setup with standard wireless smartphone integration. Cabin storage is exceptionally thorough, offering broad door bins shaped for large water bottles, multiple dash shelves, and secure overhead storage compartments. Physical controls for the climate functions are retained for easy operation on the move.
Performance & Powertrains
Powering the Movano Electric is a robust 268bhp front-mounted electric motor delivering 400Nm of instant torque, enabling rapid acceleration away from junctions even under heavy loads. Energy is stored in a substantial 110kWh battery pack located beneath the floor. This yields a range of up to 261 miles on a single charge depending on body size, easily placing it among the leaders in its class. DC rapid charging capability is supported at speeds up to 150kW, enabling a 0-80% top-up in approximately 55 minutes. For AC depot charging, an 11kW three-phase onboard charger is standard.
Practicality
Because the battery is positioned entirely beneath the floor, the cargo area retains the exact same expansive dimensions as its combustion-engine siblings. Available in two wheelbases and two roof heights (L3/L4 and H2/H3), load space spans from 13 cubic metres up to an immense 17 cubic metres. Payload ratings vary by gross vehicle weight. Standard 3.5-tonne models carry around 710kg, whereas the upgraded 4.25-tonne variant offers payloads up to 1,500kg. Loading is straightforward thanks to wide twin rear doors that open up to 270 degrees alongside a large side sliding door.
Buying
Pricing for the Vauxhall Movano Electric starts from around £64,205 (excl. VAT). The trim lineup is kept straightforward, with Prime trim serving as the core specification. standard equipment across the range includes automatic climate control, touchscreen navigation, rear parking sensors with a reversing camera, lane departure warning, and advanced emergency braking. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the L3H2 Panel Van in the 4.25-tonne specification. This variant offers an ideal balance between easier city manoeuvrability and a far more practical 1,460kg payload capacity, while retaining a realistic driving range above 230 miles. Adding the optional 230V power socket transforms the cargo bay into a mobile workshop for running power tools directly off the vehicle's battery.