Europcar Vans & Trucks is offering free three-week test drives of a fully equipped and Chapter 8 compliant Volkswagen e-Transporter to help infrastructure and construction firms experience eLCV driving over a longer basis.

The extended test drives are available to existing customers and enable organisations that require Chapter 8 vehicles, from building, road and rail works contractors to utilities and the public sector, to get vital insights into electric van usage.

Tom Middleditch, head of B2B marketing at Europcar, said manufacturer test-drives of similar vehicles are usually a maximum of 72 hours, which doesn’t provide drivers and their employers with a full picture of eLCV life in all weathers, road conditions and job types.

“We know from experience that even reluctant electric drivers feel more positive about making the switch after a real-world test drive. We believe that by offering the Volkswagen e- Transporter for a significant three-week length free trial will help reduce fleet emissions in the longer-term.”

Fleets looking to go electric following the free trials will benefit from customised vehicles built by Europcar to meet their specific requirements and preferences.

Europcar has added the most popular additional features for vans in the infrastructure and construction sectors to the demo model so that businesses can put electric motoring to the test while remaining Chapter 8 compliant.

Key features installed on the demo vehicle include easy-to-clean, lightweight, recycled plastic ply lining and flooring, a 50kW solar roof panel to power internal electrical equipment in order to maximise main battery range, and a removable light bar. Alongside the required chevron decals and livery, the lightbar delivers full Chapter 8 compliance.

Most of the extra features included with the demo model can be added to long-term rental of eLCVs from Europcar to support those working in dangerous locations on or near the road.

Optional add-on components available for Europcar’s Chapter 8 eLCV rentals include lightweight, recycled plastic ply lining and flooring by Legend Fleet Services, which saves weight and is wipe-down.

Europcar also offers Chapter 8 decals and e-van livery applied by Media Fleet, along with a 50kW solar roof panel provided by Genie Insights. The panel assists with powering the fan, lights, and other electrical equipment to reduce drain on the main battery, leading to a 6% improvement in range.

Fleets can also specify a removable, non-drill light bar from Park Safe, designed to allow a full Chapter 8-compliant van build without damaging a leased vehicle.