Nissan Unveils Latest ‘Last Mile’ BEV Van
Nissan has unveiled its latest BEV targeting the urban final mile delivery service in the shape of the Townstar.
More compact than the existing Nissan e-NV200, the new LCV is focused on inner city delivery businesses operating in the smaller streets experienced in many ancient cities and towns in Europe where a full-size van would struggle to access. Beyond emission-free powertrains, the Townstar boasts a suite of more than 20 ADAS and infotainment technologies.
The BEV version of the van a 44kWh battery pack employing an intelligent energy management and thermal cooling system in one package. The new van claims 181ft-lbs of torque and a potential 177 miles of range, a 43% improvement over the outgoing e-NV200.
There will also be an ICE option in the shape of a 1.3-liter gasoline powertrain that will be compliant with the latest Euro 6d-Full emissions regulations and producing 126bhp and 177ft-lbs of torque.
Inside ADAS features include side wind assist and trailer sway assist, intelligent emergency braking including pedestrian and cyclist detection and junction assist, as well as hands-free parking and intelligent cruise control. Nissan is integrating the around view monitor for the first time in the compact van segment where, using a suite of cameras, the system displays a 360-degree overview of the area around the vehicle.
For highway comfort there’s ProPILOT advanced driver assistance system allowing the vehicle to automatically slow to a full stop and accelerate by following the vehicle ahead, as well as keeping it centered in the lane.
Emmanuelle Serazin, LCV and corporate sales director, Nissan Europe, said: “Offering two efficient powertrain solutions, ergonomic design and unique technologies, the all-new Townstar is comprehensively equipped to meet customers’ ever-changing needs. With tougher emissions standards, urban access restrictions, and ever-increasing demand for last-mile delivery, businesses large and small need to find effective and sustainable solutions to remain competitive and optimize their operations.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
