In partnership with Citroën, Damien tried out the Citroën ë-Berlingo Van, the 100% electric light utility vehicle derived from the brand’s MPV with chevrons. After 15 days at the wheel, here is the report.
Silence, smoothness and an electric range of 275 km (WLTP mixed cycle) “more than sufficient” to go to his construction sites every day… During his fifteen days of testing in real conditions, Damien, an electrician in Nantes, obviously enjoyed his first 100% electric experience at the wheel of the Citroën ë-Berlingo Van. Especially since in addition to the dynamic and serene driving provided by its electric motor, the Citroën light utility vehicle, tested here in size M (4.40 m long versus 4.75 m in size XL) l also convinced with its practical qualities.
With its batteries perfectly integrated under its floor, the ë-Berlingo Van makes no compromise, both in terms of the space available in its passenger compartment and the load volume, which is also identical to the thermal versions (from 3.30 to 4.40 m³ depending on version). Separated from the cabin by a “solid metal partition” as Damien noted, the useful rear space is also generously accessible thanks to the two sliding side doors (the one on the left is optional at €275 excl. add two rear doors of asymmetrical width (40/60 format) opening up to 180°.
« As the latter even open a little beyond the contours of the bodywork, you really benefit from all the useful width when loading. “, specifies Damien who also notes” wheel arches encroaching little on the width of the surface on the ground “.
Able to carry up to 800 kg of payload in size M (750 kg for the XL version) and objects over 3 meters long, the ë-Berlingo Van also has numerous storage spaces (113 liters in total ), like the large box, passenger side on top of the dashboard. ” As it is quite deep, it is perfect for storing my client files Damien insists again. As an option, the Citroën ë-Berlingo Van can even be equipped with the “Extenso” cabin (€450 excluding VAT) which then offers three seats in the front (the driver and two passengers) instead of two, the center seat being able to transform into an adjustable writing tablet by simply tilting its backrest.
Equipped as an option with an 8-inch color touch screen with “Mirror Screen” function to duplicate smartphone applications (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), Citroën’s light utility vehicle even has everything from a small “mobile office” with its connected services such as “My Citroën Drive”. Via voice command, it allows you to control the navigation, the multimedia system and the telephone without taking your eyes off the road. The Citroën ë-Berlingo Van also has no less than 20 driver assistance systems (line crossing alert, panel recognition with speedometer, etc.). Among these, we will also remember the original “Surround Rear Vision” system which, via cameras and on a screen housed in place of the central rear-view mirror, makes it possible to view the sides and the rear of the vehicle and therefore to maneuver in completely safe.
” I am convinced “
Damien (37 years old), Craftsman Electrician, Nantes (44)
« By comparing it to those that I own, I find that this Citroën ë-Berlingo Van is a very good utility vehicle, especially with this electric motorization which brings a real plus in terms of comfort, silence and power at start-up. But it is also endowed with very good advantages on the practical side.
In this three-seater version at the front (the model tested is equipped with the “Extenso cabin” Editor’s note), there is enough space in its cabin for everyone to feel comfortably settled in their seat. Ë-Berlingo Van also has plenty of storage, and of different sizes, to store your everyday objects. In his cabin, there is even a 220 V socket on which I recharged the batteries of my power tools.
In the rear, the load volume seems to have dimensions very comparable to those of my utility vehicles. But it is easier to access, both through its rear doors which open to 180° and through its wider side doors which facilitate day-to-day loading and unloading operations. By opening a hatch in the bulkhead separating the passenger compartment from the rear compartment and by tilting the back of the passenger seat located on the far right, it is even possible to transport rather long objects. It’s original, practical and all the better thought out as these objects fit into a sock-like fabric cover for a matter of safety.
Another attention that I found very useful in use: the Surround Rear Vision system and its screen taking the place of the central mirror. The wide-angle rendering of the sides and rear of the vehicle allows for serene manoeuvres.
In terms of technologies, I really appreciated the ease of use and the functionalities of the touch pad on which I mainly displayed navigation or graphics providing information on the electrical energy consumed or recovered by the battery.
In the end, I am convinced by this Citroën ë-Berlingo Van, both by its utility qualities and the very nice pleasure of its electric motorization. However, I have a small regret on the practical side: it lacks storage to be able to, at least, store the cables used to recharge its batteries. »
