Now there is a price war for electric vans, and first under $50,000 drive-away

The electric van market in Australia is witnessing a significant price war as new models enter the scene at increasingly competitive rates. Farizon, a Chinese brand owned by Geely Holdings, has recently announced the launch of its V7E all-electric commercial van with a drive-away price starting at $49,990. This pricing undercuts the earlier announced $55,990 starting price of Kia’s PV5 Cargo van, marking the V7E as the first electric van in the country to break the $50,000 barrier. The Farizon V7E is offered with two battery options: a 50 kWh pack in the base model and a larger 66 kWh battery in the higher-spec variant. While specific range details have yet to be disclosed, the van is designed to meet the practical needs of commercial users, featuring a payload capacity of over 1,300kg and a cargo volume of 6.95 cubic metres. These specifications position the V7E as a versatile vehicle tailored for urban delivery operations, balancing size and efficiency. Adam Lawson, general manager of Jameel Motors Australia, the distributor of the V7E, emphasises the growing shift towards electric commercial vehicles as they become more cost-effective and reliable for daily business use. He highlights the V7E’s competitive pricing relative to traditional internal combustion engine vans and its potential for reduced running and servicing costs, suggesting a compelling total cost of ownership for businesses considering electrification. The entry of Farizon’s V7E into the Australian market not only intensifies competition but also signals a broader trend towards more affordable electric commercial vehicles. As the market expands, businesses are likely to benefit from improved options that combine sustainability with economic practicality. Further details on range and performance are awaited, but the V7E’s arrival marks a pivotal moment in the electric van segment Down Under.