2020 ABT Volkswgen e-Transporter

• Iconic Transporter is Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ first all-electric van for the UK

• Model offers up to 82 miles range with no compromise on cargo area

• Rapid charging to 80% in 45 minutes

• Zero-emission ABT e-Transporter 6.1 developed with ABT e-Line

• Available in panel van and kombi versions

• Two trim levels plus generous levels of standard equipment

• Prices for Volkswagen ABT e-Transporter 6.1 start from £42,060 (exc. VAT)

• ABT e-Transporter 6.1 qualifies for the Government Plug-In Vehicle Grant

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is starting an exciting new chapter in its history with the launch of the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 – the brand’s first electric van. The new model, which is the first zero-emission model from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles to go on sale in the UK, marks the first step in the brand’s ambitious electrification programme that will deliver practical and affordable alternatives to drivers and fleets.

Developed in collaboration with long-standing Premium Partner ABT e-Line, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 has been created to meet an increasing customer demand for cleaner, emissions-free urban transportation.

Although the ABT e-Transporter 6.1’s powertrain is all-new, it enjoys the same practicality and ease of use that has become a trademark of Volkswagen’s best-selling commercial vehicle. Available in both panel van and kombi forms from launch, both models feature the same load area as their diesel-powered counterparts (6.7m3 for the panel van and 4.4m3 for the kombi) while payloads are up to 996kg and 900kg respectively.

The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 features a 37.3kWh battery pack and delivers drive to the front wheels via a modified DSG transmission and a 110PS electric motor. It combines quiet driving and instant torque to deliver the perfect, hassle-free driving experience.

In terms of range, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is capable of covering up to 82 miles on the WLTP cycle and comes with CCS rapid charging as standard. Customers can recharge the vehicle in a variety of ways, with the fastest option being a 50kW DC rapid charge. When rapid charging, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 can achieve an 80 per cent charge in around 45 minutes. Customers can also charge via Type 2 AC domestic and workplace chargers for even greater flexibility.

The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 may be zero emissions, but it remains 100 per cent Transporter. As a result, customers will benefit from a cabin that effortlessly delivers all-day comfort and a range of safety and assistance systems designed to keep the driver fully protected at all times.

Customers can choose from two trim levels; standard and Advance, with features such as climate control air conditioning, Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and a touchscreen infotainment system standard on both models.

Drivetrain, battery and charging
The all-electric drivetrain of the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 has been designed and developed to offer maximum usability without any compromise to practicality. At the heart of the vehicle is a 37.3kWh lithium-ion battery pack (32.5kWh usable). The battery is neatly packaged into the floor behind the front axle and helps give the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 excellent weight distribution. Although the drivetrain layout differs significantly from the diesel-powered Transporter, the floor height and all internal dimensions remain exactly the same.

Under the bonnet is a powerful electric motor that delivers 110PS (83kW) and up to 200Nm of torque. Unusually for an electric vehicle, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is equipped with a modified dual-clutch DSG transmission. This unit combines the flexibility of a conventional DSG with the requirements of electric drive to deliver sufficient power in any driving situation. When Drive (‘D’) is selected, the motor will deliver 75 per cent power to maximise range, with the kickdown function on the gear shift providing 100 per cent power and torque. In terms of range, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 can travel for up to 82 miles on the WLTP cycle.

2020 ABT Volkswagen e-Transporter Front View 3/4

Charging
The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 can be charged using either AC or DC. The vehicle supports DC charging up to 50kW DC charging rate and can be charged from 0-80 per cent in around 45 minutes. Alternatively, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 supports up to 7.2kW AC charging rate and can be charged 0-100 per cent in around five and a half hours.

The charge port is located in the same position as the fuel filler cap on the diesel T6.1 variants. As soon as the charging process has started the indicator will flash green to let the driver know it is successfully charging. The connector is locked to prevent accidental removal of the cable. Once fully charged, the light will change to solid green. To remove the cable, the driver needs to press the unlock button on the key fob twice.

The vehicle is compatible with both CCS and type 2 connectors. These are the most common charging connector types and support both AC and DC charging which makes charging on the road as straightforward as possible. As of October 2020, there were more than 33,000 charging connectors at more than 12,000 different UK locations – a figure that is constantly growing. (source: zapmap.com).

Driving
To help keep the driver informed of the vehicle performance and remain range, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 has a unique instrument cluster with a traditional speedometer on the right hand side with a smaller charge level dial inside.

On the left is a power display that shows the power flow to and from the battery. When the ignition is turned on, the needle moves from ‘Off’ to ‘Ready’ indicating the vehicle is ready to go. When braking or coasting off-throttle, the needle moves left into the green area, indicating that the vehicle is recuperating energy and feeding it into the high voltage battery.

In normal driving, the needle will move to the right to show that the driver is driving efficiently and using the least amount of energy. If the needle moves further to the right, this means the driver is using more energy, for example accelerating quickly.

If the driver needs to see more information on their remaining range and energy consumption, they can view this in the multi-function display in the centre by using the buttons on the multi-function steering wheel to toggle through the display.

ABT e-Line
The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 has been designed and developed by ABT – a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Premium Partner – and one the industry’s most experienced electric vehicle engineering companies.

Founded in 1896, ABT has worked in the supply chain for the automotive industry and has engineered and developed numerous systems for brands across the world. For more than 10 years, ABT e-Line has specialised in e-mobility projects, developing electric drivetrain and control electronics for a wide variety of OE manufacturer programmes.

ABT’s sporting division, ABT Sportsline has been competing in Formula E –  the world’s first all-electric racing series – at the highest level since it began, and has been able to further refine its systems in the motorsport arena. Working with Audi, the team won the manufacturers’ title in 2018.

2020 ABT Volkswagen e-Transporter Front View

Design
The all-electric drivetrain of the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 has been designed and developed to offer maximum usability without any compromise to practicality. At the heart of the vehicle is a 37.3kWh lithium-ion battery pack (32.5kWh usable). The battery is neatly packaged into the floor behind the front axle and helps give the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 excellent weight distribution. Although the drivetrain layout differs significantly from the diesel-powered Transporter, the floor height and all internal dimensions remain exactly the same.

Under the bonnet is a powerful electric motor that delivers 110PS (83kW) and up to 200Nm of torque. Unusually for an electric vehicle, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is equipped with a modified dual-clutch DSG transmission. This unit combines the flexibility of a conventional DSG with the requirements of electric drive to deliver sufficient power in any driving situation. When Drive (‘D’) is selected, the motor will deliver 75 per cent power to maximise range, with the kickdown function on the gear shift providing 100 per cent power and torque. In terms of range, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 can travel for up to 82 miles on the WLTP cycle.

Price, equipment and value
The new ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is available in both panel van and kombi crew van body styles. Based on the long wheelbase Transporter, the models feature the same load carrying capacity as their diesel counterparts, thanks to the battery being located underneath the cargo area.

Customers can choose between two trim levels, standard and Advance. The entry version is exceptionally well equipped with App Connect, LED interior lighting and a leather trimmed multi-function steering wheel all fitted as standard. In addition to this, the entry model also includes climatic air conditioning, heated driver and front passenger seats and rear parking sensors as standard.

The Advance trim builds on this by additionally offering 17-inch Devonport alloy wheels, LED headlights, body coloured bumpers, wing mirrors and door handles and electrically folding door mirrors.

Customers can also tailor their ABT e-Transporter 6.1 via a wide range of cost options. These include multiple door options, metallic paint finishes and cabin trims.

Prices and running costs
Prices for the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 range from £42,060 to £49,985 (OTR exc VAT). All models qualify for the Government’s Plug in Van Grant which means that customers receive 20% off of the purchase price of the vehicle (up to £8,000, calculated on final list price inc VAT). Most customers will also be eligible for up to £350 off of the price of a wallbox using the Government’s electric vehicle home charge scheme or the Workplace Charging scheme.

Drivers and operators can also make significant savings in regard to fuel costs. Owners who are able to charge overnight on low-rate electricity tariffs can pay as little as £1.60 to fully charge the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 from empty to full. (Calculated using Octopus Go tariff at 5p per kWh). A typical 80% charge at a public rapid charger (BP Chargemaster Polar Instant) will cost around £6.40.

The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 also qualifies for zero vehicle excise duty and is exempt from tolls applied in low emission zone areas including London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone. This is particularly relevant as plans for similar zones expand to cities such as Birmingham, Sheffield and Manchester.

2020 ABT Volkswagen e-Transporter Side View

Servicing
Another advantage of the ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is its significantly lower servicing costs. As electric vehicles have fewer moving parts when compared to conventional diesel vehicles, the number of service items and workshop hours are both reduced.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles estimates that electric vans cost on average 30 percent less to service. Over the life-span of the vehicle, this can deliver significant cost savings for users.

At launch, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is offering three services for the price of two to customers who purchase a bespoke ABT e-Transporter 6.1 plan. For £399, customers receive three services, one MOT, a brake fluid change and pollen filter replacement.

The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 has an annual service schedule – or 24,900 miles – with an extended inspection after 36 months (74,500 miles). Following that, an extended inspection is required every two years.

All Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Van Centres are equipped to carry out service and repairs to the ABT e-Transporter 6.1, along with a team of fully-trained EV specialist technicians.

Warranty
Volkswagen understands that electric vehicle technology is still new to many customers. To give peace of mind, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1’s battery pack is supplied with an eight year / 100,000 mile warranty. Should the battery capacity fall below 70%, or develop a fault during the warranty period it will be replaced. The rest of the vehicle is covered by the brand’s standard warranty of three years / 100,000 miles.

The new ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is available in both panel van and kombi crew van body styles. Based on the long wheelbase Transporter, the models feature the same load carrying capacity as their diesel counterparts, thanks to the battery being located underneath the cargo area.

Customers can choose between two trim levels, standard and Advance. The entry version is exceptionally well equipped with App Connect, LED interior lighting and a leather trimmed multi-function steering wheel all fitted as standard. In addition to this, the entry model also includes climatic air conditioning, heated driver and front passenger seats and rear parking sensors as standard.

The Advance trim builds on this by additionally offering 17-inch Devonport alloy wheels, LED headlights, body coloured bumpers, wing mirrors and door handles and electrically folding door mirrors.

Customers can also tailor their ABT e-Transporter 6.1 via a wide range of cost options. These include multiple door options, metallic paint finishes and cabin trims.

Safety systems
The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 comes with a host of safety systems as standard. Volkswagen is committed to offering drivers maximum protection and has introduced a number of features designed to keep drivers safe. They include:

Front Assist with City Emergency Braking
Using a front-mounted radar, the ABT e-Transporter 6.1’s Front Assist system recognises critical distances to the vehicle in front and helps to ensure safe stopping. In any dangerous situations the system warns the driver visually and audibly, as well as with a slight jolt of the brake.  If the driver does not brake strongly enough, Front Assist increases the braking pressure to the required level, so that the vehicle comes to a stop before reaching the obstacle.

2020 ABT Volkswagen e-Transporter Charging

The system also includes the City Emergency Braking function, which provides assistance at low speeds of under 18mph. If the driver fails to see or react to an obstacle, the system automatically applies the brakes and ensures that the speed of any collision is reduced.

Driver Steering Recommendation
This system is designed to help stabilise the vehicle as it is driven, gently intervening if it detects oversteer around corners. This system, like many others, is only possible thanks the Transporter’s advanced electric power steering system.

Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System automatically brakes the Transporter after it has been involved in an accident in order to reduce the risk or severity of a secondary collision against another obstacle or vehicle.

Triggering of the system is based on detection of a primary collision by the airbag sensors. Vehicle braking is limited by the ESP control unit to a maximum deceleration rate of 0.6g. This value matches the deceleration level and ensures that the driver can take over handling of the car even in case of automatic braking.

Cross Wind Assist
The ABT e-Transporter 6.1 is equipped with Cross Wind Assist as standard. When the vehicle speed reaches 50mph, Cross Wind Assist is automatically activated. It then continually monitors the vehicle and its direction of travel. Should there be a sudden cross wind, the system uses the Electronic Stability Control programme and targeted braking of individual wheels to steer against it.

WHEELS

• 16-inch steel wheels 205/65 R16 tyres with low rolling resistance
• Steel spare wheel
• Tool kit and jack

EXTERIOR

• Electrically adjustable and heated exterior door mirrors
• Grey bumpers with exterior door mirror housings and door handles in Black
• Radiator grille with double chrome trim strip

2020 ABT Volkswagen e-Transporter Side View

AIR CONDITIONING AND SUN PROTECTION

• Climatic air conditioning system
• Heat-insulating windows in cab

DRIVER’S WORKPLACE

• Dash panel with open stowage compartments, drink holders and illuminated lockable glovebox
• Dimmable dashboard illumination
• ‘Double Grid’ cloth seat upholstery in Titanium Black
• Driver’s seat with armrest, height adjustment and 4-way manual lumbar support
• Dual passenger bench seat
• Durable rubber floor in the cab
• Electric windows in the cab
• Heated front seats
• Folding grab handles on roof frame
• Leather trimmed multi-function steering wheel with height and longitudinal adjustment
• LED interior lighting with two reading lights in the roof console
• Sun visors and airbag label on front passenger sun visor
• 12V socket

INFOTAINMENT AND CONNECTIVITY

• Composition Colour DAB+ radio system with screen and four loudspeakers, SD card slot, Bluetooth® handsfree and two USB interfaces (type-C) in dashboard
• Multi-function display ‘Premium’ with colour display
• Volkswagen App-Connect

LOAD COMPARTMENT

• Folding lashing rings for load restraint system, reinforced (ISO 27956)
• Full height steel bulkhead, without window
• Half-height side trim panels and roof trim panels made of hardboard
• Interior lighting with LED technology in load compartment
• Rear wing doors without window apertures
• Sliding door on the left in load compartment

2020 ABT Volkswagen e-Transporter Rear View 3/4

DRIVER ASSISTANCE, SAFETY AND SECURING SYSTEMS

• Acoustic Vehicle Alert System
• Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
• Brake Assist system
• Central locking system with two remote control folding keys and interior operation
• Crosswind Assist
• Daytime running lights
• Driver Alert system
• Driver and front passenger airbags with front passenger’s airbag deactivation button
• Electromechanical steering
• Electronic Stabilisation Programme1 (ESP), Anti-lock Braking
• System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and Hill Start Assist
• Engine immobiliser
• Front Assist with City Emergency Braking System
• Parking sensors, rear
• Regenerative braking
• Single-tone horn

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