The EV80 is the first of LDV’s new generation of cleaner, alternative fuel vehicles that it says is ideal for both city driving and short journeys. It boasts a 120 mile range on a single charge.
The EV80 has been designed with zero emissions technology together with advanced electric power systems providing greener power and in return, reducing environmental impacts.
The company says it is firmly focused on the future of greener motoring with impending plans to launch a plug-in hybrid, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell propelled CV.
LDV was also awarded LCV Manufacturer of the Year at the most recent GreenFleet Awards, which celebrates and rewards the work undertaken by stakeholders in the fleet sector to reduce the environmental impacts of automotive vehicles. It promotes zero and ultra-low-emission technology.
LDV was overall winner in a stiffly-contested category that recognised the efforts it has made to reduce CO2 and increase fuel economy in its LCVs.
LDV is manufactured by SAIC, the largest automotive company in China and distributed by Harris Automotive Distributors. SAIC recently confirmed a partnership with China’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturer, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co (CATL ) to drive the future of advanced, power battery systems.
The deal between the two companies involves a multi-billion investment that will challenge the world’s current largest power battery production plant, the Tesla ‘Super Factory’, with plans to reach 36,000 GWh of capacity by 2020.
Harris and SAIC Motors continuously look at ways in which to bring new opportunities and products to the market.
LDV has also revealed a next generation V80 and in 2019 will add the SV63 to its dynamic and growing fleet. Building on what it describes as the high standards and spec of LDV’s popular V80 model, the new vehicle will have increased payloads (1.3 – 2.5T ) and lower ground clearance. It adds that with an all new D20 Euro 6d engine torque of up to 400Nm and up to five tonne, the SV63 will incorporate innovative design, intelligent safety features, a smooth driving experience and environmental protections as standard.
Another new model is the T60, the first Chinese-produced pick-up to be awarded a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, Australia and New Zealand’s leading independent vehicle safety advocate. LDV says it is the perfect vehicle for both on and off-road driving.
It adds that equipped with a high level of specification and stylish interior quality, LDV anticipates that the pick-up truck will generate significant interest should it become available on the European market.
Mark Barrett, general manager of LDV for UK and Ireland, says the T60 is in a class of its own.
"Whether for lifestyle or business use, it is imperative that we have the right product for the right market, and we are really excited by the T60, which is in a class of its own.”
He adds that the final new model, the D90 SUV which is currently available in other markets, raises the bar for seven seat SUV’s with an incredible high spec that includes heated, cooled and massaging driver’s seat, along with a host of safety technology.
Mark Barrett confirmed that in the two years since launch, LDV’s long wheel base high roof van has been its bestselling vehicle but that the last six months have seen a surge in sales for chassis cabs.
“We are offering pre-bodied chassis cabs, tipper, Luton and drop-sides, all of which are available ex-stock for immediate delivery," Barrett says. "Whatever size of order you place we can cater for it and offer immediate delivery.”
