Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland (VWCVI) is about to introduce the ABT eTransporter 6.1, its first fully electric van into the marketplace. Developed in collaboration with the Volkswagen Group Premium Partner ABT e-line, best known for its success in motorsport with the Audi Sport Team ABT Sportline and Schaeffler in the DTM and Formula-E series respectively, the ABT eTransporter 6.1 combines quiet and smooth driving, instant torque, fast charging and high load capacity for the ultimate zero-emissions urban logistics van. ABT e-line has also produced an electric version of the current Caddy van.
The model offers an all-electric range of up to 132 km with a cargo space of 6.7m3. Flexible charging options allow for 80% charge in just 45 minutes.
The ABT eTransporter 6.1 delivers a maximum power output of 110PS (83kW), with a 0-62mph time of just 17.4 seconds. The technically-advanced and lightweight electric motor provides smooth and quiet driving, low maintenance requirements and instant maximum torque. This is connected to the battery via the power electronics that supply energy to both the on-board electronics and the electric motor. The compact battery is fitted underneath the load area to avoid compromising the cargo area of 6.7m3 and payload of up to 1,001kg.
It is also fitted with regenerative braking, switching the drive motor to generator operation to recover energy lost when braking. The resulting current is fed back into the battery and stored for later use. The driver is able to see the battery status from the instrument cluster, where the usual rev counter dial has been replaced with a power meter. When the needle is in the green, the battery is being charged by recuperating energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. The blue area denotes the optimum speeds and acceleration for the most economical driving, while the charge level indicator states the current charge in the battery.
The ABT eTransporter 6.1 features a modified dual clutch transmission DSG, combining the conventional system with the requirements of an electric drive to develop sufficient power in any driving situation. When Drive (‘D’) is selected, the motor will deliver 75% power to maximise range, with the kickdown function on the gear shift providing 100% power and torque, maximising performance.
The Combined Charging System (CCS) socket on the new ABT eTransporter 6.1 provides a flexible charging solution, combining the ability to charge via both AC and DC. This means you can use any device that has either a CCS (DC charging) or Type 2 (AC charging) plug type. A Type 2 charging cable is included with the vehicle as standard.
Rapid charging using a DC charger is the fastest way to charge your electric van. The new ABT eTransporter 6.1 supports up to 50kW DC charging using a CCS connector, which means the vehicle’s lithium-ion battery can achieve a charging state of 80% within approximately 45 minutes. This is ideal for vans working a busy shift pattern which need to be on the road and working. It can support AC charging up to 7.2kW. This can be done by using a wallbox, which will charge the lithium-ion battery in approximately five and a half hours.
VWCVI will be offering 3 trim lines (as detailed below) on the ABT eT 6.1 include First, Plus, Max, with specification levels similar to the standard T6.1.
First – Driver Armrest, driver lumbar support, 6.5” touch screen infotainment system.
Plus – Rear parking sensors, leather wrapped MF steering wheel, folding mirrors, body colour bumpers / mirrors
Max – LED Headlamps, 16” Alloy, heated windshield, front & rear sensors
Prices are not confirmed as yet but will be under €57,000, without SEAI Grant which is currently €3,800 for electric commercial vehicles.