Aimed for use by VIP transfer, hotels, taxis and private customers, the new model joins the existing five-seater version in April and features a 2 + 3 + 2 layout, with both the second and third rows able to be folded to increase luggage space. With all three rows in place, the luggage capacity is up to 870 litres when measured to the roof line. It also offers additional rear air conditioning for the third row and the CHAdeMO quick charging system.

Nissan Europe’s director of electric vehicles, Jean-Pierre Diernaz said: “We have always planned to offer a higher-seating capacity version of the Nissan e-NV200. Marketplace demand has meant we have moved this introduction forward by several months to satisfy this need. Nissan has had requests from taxi companies, VIP transfer services, hotels and private motorists who are interested in buying this uniquely flexible and capable vehicle.”

The company added that its current van and five-seat e-NV200 models are already seeing sharp interest from taxi companies and large fleets such as DHL Express in Italy.  

Diernaz added: “The benefits are clear, electricity as a fuel is much cheaper than diesel, even with the recent drop in prices. Maintenance is 40% cheaper and the vehicle is quieter, smoother and faster than the diesel equivalent.”