Citroen E-Berlingo signals brand's electric ambitions

This is the Citroën E-Berlingo, a new all-electric version of the van-style people carrier that's capable of a 106-mile range.

Using the same single-motor electric drivetrain as the Berlingo Electric LCV van, the E-Berlingo produces 66bhp and has 148lb ft of torque.

Two high-capacity lithium ion battery packs with a combined rating of 22.5kWh are stored in car’s subframe, either side of its rear axle for improved centre of gravity and in order to have minimum impact on interior space.

The E-Berlingo's batteries can be recharged to offer 50% of their range in 15mins or 80% in 30mins. The car uses a DC rapid charging port that enables an eight-hour full charge time. Regenerative braking also helps to recharge the batteries when the car is on the move.

The rest of the car is identical to the regular passenger Berlingo, with two-sliding side doors and removable seats to offer a modular layout in the cabin.

Optional equipment includes air conditioning, parking sensors, a speed limiter, hill-start assist and a 7.0in touchscreen, with Bluetooth and smartphone mirroring.

Pricing will be confirmed when the E-Berlingo goes on sale this autumn, but it's expected to slightly increase on the Berlingo Electric LCV, which is priced from £26,100.

491 Berlingo Electric LCV vans were sold globally last year, with just 19 of those in the UK, so sales of the new E-Berlingo are expected to be small. However, the model’s launch confirms Citroën’s interests in the electric vehicle (EV) market.

The brand’s other electric model, the C-Zero city car, sold 1866 examples globally last year, with 25 of those in Britain. Citroën's parent company, the PSA Group, is developing an electric platform to launch a more mainstream EV upon in 2019.