LCV Maxus e Deliver 3. More capacious and fuel-efficient
The Maxus e Deliver 3 is an electric commercial van manufactured under the Maxus brand by the Chinese automobile company SAIC. Introduced in 2021, the first generation is officially available in Israel. Therefore, we’d like to tell you more about it.
We will reveal to you a dark secret. In fact, the new Maxus e Deliver 3 is a rebranded version of the LDV EV30 city van, which was first introduced by SAIC back in 2019. The Chinese automaker has prepared its model to compete in the European market with such popular vans as the Renault Kangoo ZE, Peugeot e-Partner and Citroen e-Berlingo, Volkswagen ABT eTransporter, Mercedes-Benz eVito and Vauxhall Vivaro-e. This is probably why they renamed and started producing this electric van under the Maxus brand, which has long been known and well-established in Europe.
Exterior and interior
The 2021/2022 Maxus e Deliver 3 all-electric city van is a cross between a small and mid-size van, not as long as most competitors but taller, which also makes it more attractive for a number of logistics industries. The E Deliver is available in two wheelbase lengths and body sizes. The driver’s seat is located high, which provides all-round visibility. Moreover, the vehicle has a reversing camera for easier parking.
SAIC believes that the main advantage of the Maxus e Deliver 3 over competitors is its cargo space and load capacity, equal to 4.8 cubic meters and 905 kg, respectively, for the entry-level version. For comparison, the Kangoo offers 4.6 and 650 kg, most other vans are also inferior in these indicators to the Chinese Maxus.
Powertrains and chassis
The new Maxus e Deliver 3 is equipped with an electric motor with an output of 120 hp and a torque of 255 Nm. The motor is driven by a 52.5 kWh lithium-ion battery. By the way, the electric van is quite dynamic, accelerating to 100 km/h in 11 seconds. Potentially, such acceleration can be dangerous for a van, especially with a load, which is why the e Deliver is equipped with a warning option, which sends a sound alarm to the driver when the car reaches 70 km/h. The top speed is limited to 120 km/h.
MacPherson strut and leaf sprung suspensions focus rather on load-bearing abilities than comfort or speed, so if the drivers use the van for other purposes, they will feel the full power of speed bumps and the depth of potholes. But as an urban commercial van, the e Deliver is well balanced, dynamic and stable. According to previous reviews, it is easy to control with an electric power steering and a choice of two throttle settings and three degrees of energy recovery.
The van can transport goods at a distance of up to 240 km, which is not enough. Although according to the manufacturer, such a driving range is sufficient in urban conditions. It can be recharged overnight and will be ready for work in 8 hours. A fast charger will charge the van up to 80% in 45 minutes.
