Innovation Automotive (IA), the UK’s first multi-brand, all-electric automotive company, will make its first appearance at this year’s Commercial Vehicle (CV) Show on 31st August 2021.
IA set out its vision for the this week, announcing ambitious plans to simplify and demystify the process of switching to electric and bring a new level of accessibility to the market. CV Show attendees are invited to meet the IA team on stand F421 and help fine-tune the company’s pioneering approach before its full-scale launch later this year.
IA’s introduction into the UK light commercial vehicle (LCV) market comes at a pivotal time for a sector that has been slow to adopt electric alternatives. Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) data shows that, in June and July 2021, ‘Alternatively Fuelled Vehicle’ LCV sales accounted for just 3.86% and 2.68% of monthly sales respectively.
Paul Brigden, CEO of IA, said: “Many operators are still unsure of the business case for switching to electric, and perceptions remain that it is too risky, too complicated and too expensive. But change is coming and it’s coming fast so we’re here to help fleets of all sizes make the switch. Our commitment is to source the best alternative 100% electric LCVs, to provide a first-class advisory service to our customers with an accessible and cost-effective after-sales network.”
Brigden added: “We will officially launch later this year, but we’re at the CV show to introduce ourselves, our initial product range and, most importantly, to listen to our future customers to help fine-tune our service”.
The first vehicle that IA will bring to the UK market will be the all-electric DFSK EC35, a compact and efficient all-electric panel van ideal for inner-city and ‘last-mile’ delivery.
Despite its compact dimensions – 4500x1680x1985mm – the EC35 is supremely capable. With a Gross Vehicle Weight of 2,600kg it boasts a class-leading maximum payload of 950kg and an impressive loading volume of 4.8m3.
Powering the DFSK EC35 is a 39kWh battery that delivers a range of over 150 miles and can be recharged to 100% capacity in just 90 minutes using a rapid charger. As well as the peace of mind afforded by the EC35’s range and charging capability, the vehicle is backed by a five-year warranty.
The DFSK EC35 will be swiftly followed by the EC31, an electric chassis cab van that combines impressive practicality and dependability with zero-emissions motoring. As with the EC35, the DFSK EC31 comes with a five-year warranty.
IA also has an exclusive agreement to provide Skywell commercial vehicles and will be introducing Skywell products to the UK in the near future.
Innovation Automotive is set to officially launch in the UK later this year, with its first vehicles to go on sale in early 2022. The company also has ambitions to distribute a range of passenger vehicles in the UK and Europe. Details of its passenger car manufacturing partners, planned models and more will be revealed at launch.