The new E-Berlingo retains the practicality and modular design of Citroën's standard Berlingo Multispace – but with power coming from an electric motor.

With a range of up to 106 miles, the new model is powered by a compact and high-performance ‘permanent magnet synchronous’ motor. Designed to meet the demands of active families, whilst adding all the advantages of an electric drivetrain - the E-Berlingo retains the space, comfort and equipment from the conventionally-powered models.

The new vehicle’s lithium-ion battery packs are positioned in the subframe either side of the rear axle, which means the cabin layout and boot volume are retained. Able to accommodate up to five people, or larger loads when the seats in row 2 are folded away (which can also be removed completely to create a fully flat load area). The boot volume is described by Citroen as amongst the best in class at 675 litres with five people on-board, increasing to 3,000 litres with seats folded.

Access to the vehicle is via two sliding side doors, plus a large rear tailgate which also has a window that opens independently, making loading the boot easier in confined spaces. The new model is equipped with the same electric drivetrain as the Berlingo Electric LCV, which is already in service with numerous fleet customers across Europe. 

The E-Berlingo Multispace can be re-charged to 50% in 15 minutes or to 80% of capacity in 30 minutes from a dedicated rapid charge point. This uses the vehicle’s DC rapid charging port (CHAdeMO). The standard charge time is 8 hours using the 16 A, Type 2 cable or 10 hours from a domestic 3-pin socket. The motor also provides regenerative braking when the vehicle is slowing down, helping to re-charge the batteries and reduce brake wear.

Two high-capacity lithium-ion battery packs, with a combined rating of 22.5kWh, lower the car’s centre of gravity for even more dynamic stability and develop 67hp (49kW) with 200Nm of torque immediately available.

The MPV also comes with remote-controlled functions for use via a smartphone including a facility that allows the driver to pre-heat or cool the interior prior to accessing the vehicle. The driver can also remotely check their car’s battery charge level.

There is also an eco-driving assistance programme, which helps the driver adopt the most economical driving style to optimise range. The navigation system displays speed limits and traffic information, as well as charging points that can be reached by the vehicle based on the remaining range.

Available equipment includes air conditioning, parking sensors, speed limiter, tyre pressure monitoring, electronic stability control (ESC) combined with Hill-Start Assist and a 7-inch touchscreen. The E-Berlingo Multispace also features the Citroen brand’s in-car connectivity, with Bluetooth and Mirror Screen technology. The traction battery is included in the purchase price of the vehicle and comes with an 8-year/60,000 mile warranty. 

The new Citroen E-Berlingo Multispace will go on sale in the UK during the third quarter of 2017.