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Do you want to purchase a commercial electric van? You are not alone. More and more business owners are looking into electric vehicles (EVs) due to the Irish Government’s commitment to promoting the switch to zero-emission vehicles. Agencies such as the Sustainable Energy Authority in Ireland and Transport Infrastructure Ireland are working tirelessly to make this commitment and the necessary infrastructure a reality. A Maxus electric van is the ultimate zero-emissions alternative to your petrol or diesel van, and we share our ultimate guide to choosing a commercial electric van in Ireland.

An Overview of Commercial Electric Vans

A commercial electric van operates under the same principles as a personal battery electric vehicle (BEV). It boasts fewer moving components than a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE), leading to reduced maintenance and repair needs. Additionally, you can lower operating costs, like electricity, by installing solar panels at your charging stations.

Commercial electric vans boast zero tailpipe emissions, exempting you from road user charges in Ireland’s low-emission zones (LEZ), ultra-low-emission zones (ULEZ), or clean air zones (CAZ). They also present an effective solution to noise pollution. These vans are so quiet that fitting an acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS) is mandatory in many countries.

The Different Types of Commercial Electric Vans in Ireland

Though the availability of light electric commercial vans surpasses that of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), the market for electric HGVs is steadily expanding. Specialising in electric vans, Maxus offers a commercial range tailored to every requirement, whether it’s payload, loadspace, passenger capacity, or driving range. We are also experts at commercial van conversions. Let’s look at our commercial range in more detail:

Maxus eDeliver 9

The Maxus eDeliver 9 features a storage space accessible via a sliding door and double rear doors opening to 236°, an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat with an armrest, and three battery options.

Battery: Fast charge of 80% in 45 minutes (DC)

Range: up to 352 city km per charge

Payload: 1200 kg

Maxus eDeliver 7

The mid-sized Maxus eDeliver 7 electric van is perfect for transporting goods, equipment, or cargo.

Range: up to 547 city km per charge

Payload: 1135 kg

Trailer capacity: up to 1500 kg

Maxus eDeliver 3

The Maxus eDeliver 3, the most compact of the Deliver range, is so technologically advanced that the cabin area can serve as your fully equipped office.

Range: up to 343 city km per charge

Payload: 865 kg

Cargo volume: 4.8 m3

T90EV Pick-up

The Maxus T90EV pick-up is another electric commercial vehicle option, blending strength, efficiency, and state-of-the-art technology.

Battery: Fast charge of 80% in 45 minutes (DC)

Range: up to 354 city km per charge

Payload: 1000 kg (maximum).

Key Considerations for Choosing a Commercial Electric Van

The key factor in choosing commercial electric vans for your business is ensuring they are fit for purpose. Consider the range to determine the driving distance on a charge, whether for long distances or city driving. Also, consider the battery’s recharge time. As the commercial electric van market is still developing, it’s also wise to consider the potential resale value and insurance costs.

The Best Commercial Electric Van for Your Needs

Choosing the right Maxus EV means opting for an eco-friendly van designed for durability. Our vans are data-driven, and equipped with the Maxus Intelligence Onboard System for real-time information on location, speed, charging times, range, and much more.

Every Maxus EV comes with a five-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year warranty on its high-voltage battery, alongside nationwide breakdown assistance, service, repairs, and original parts. Maxus vans stand out for their exceptional quality.

Maxus is dedicated to sustainability and outstanding service. Contact us today to find the ideal commercial electric van for your business in Ireland.

According to the Central Statistics Office, Irish van drivers are embracing electric vehicles in record numbers, with new registrations increasing daily. So, what’s driving this surge in adoption? According to our customers, it’s a combination of the need for a more sustainable future and a growing awareness of the operational savings associated with electric vans.

 The Financial Benefits of Choosing Electric Vehicle Fleets

The day-to-day operational costs of an electric vehicle are more economical than those of regular petrol or diesel vehicles. The average cost of charging an electric commercial van in Ireland is around 35.83 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for a standard home metre. This means that charging an electric van for a 100-kilometre trip would cost approximately €5.37, based on an average electricity consumption of 15 kWh/100km for electric vehicles. Additionally, electric vans have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance since there’s no need for oil changes. Furthermore, by taking advantage of discounted off-peak electricity rates, you can maximise your savings.

 Electric Van Owners Enjoy Government Incentives and Tax Benefits

The Irish government is committed to an electric future, offering generous grants for electric van purchases and charger station installations.

• The ZEVI Electric Vehicle Grants covers different types of electric vans. Private electric vehicle purchases are eligible for savings of up to €3,500, while commercial electric vehicles offer potential savings of €3,800.
• The Electric Vehicle Home Charger Grant provides a grant of up to €300 towards the purchase and installation of home charger stations. 

A 2020 Consumer Reports US study found that EVs are 50% cheaper to maintain and repair. Jessica Potts, of BookMyGarage, explains the reasons. “EV powertrains are a lot simpler and don’t require engine oil changes, air filters, spark plugs or fuel filters. Servicing an electric vehicle requires less labour and fewer replacement parts and fluids, helping to lower costs.”

The Operational Benefits of Choosing Electric Commercial Van Fleets

With electric vehicles, engine trouble becomes a thing of the past, and you can rely on your battery to perform consistently. Modern electric vehicle batteries are built to last, many of which are covered by warranty. We guarantee your new Maxus electric vans for 5 years (60,000 miles) and the van battery for 8 years (100,000 miles).

As EV charger technology continues to evolve, you can expect even greater performance from your vehicle. With emissions charges and restrictions expected to increase as we approach 2030, switching to electric vans early can save you money and headaches in the long run.

The Environmental Benefits of Choosing Electric Vehicle Fleets

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes in Ireland. Switching to an electric fleet demonstrates your company’s commitment to ESG principles, which can help you secure contracts and attract investors.

Why Electric Commercial Van Fleets Are the Perfect Choice for Businesses in Ireland

Every technological advance provides another reason to go electric. Year on year, our vans are becoming smarter, more efficient, and going the extra mile for your business. Charging infrastructure is growing significantly, mechanics are upskilling, and Electric Vehicle drivers are receiving preferential treatment from local authorities.

It all comes down to one decision – how soon do you want to start saving money for your business and contributing to a cleaner environment in Ireland? Maxus electric vans come with a five-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year warranty on the high-voltage battery. We also offer nationwide breakdown assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Contact us today to discuss the Maxus range of electric vans in Ireland.

For Maxus, innovation is at the core of everything we do. Since introducing our first electric van, we have been recognised as pioneers, leading the charge toward a future dominated by electric vehicles and vans. Our commitment to innovation has been acknowledged with numerous GreenFleet Awards, including accolades for Electric Vehicle Manufacturer and LCV Manufacturer of the Year. This recognition fuels our determination to continue breaking new ground and driving change for our customers.

Innovations and Characteristics Transforming Electric Commercial Vehicles

Our engineers are continuously working to narrow the gap between the present and the future. Today’s Electric Vans are connected, intelligent, and communicative. Always-on, they protect drivers and the public, monitor performance and self-check parts, and flag any maintenance needs in advance. 

Each new Maxus electric van is equipped with our advanced telematic software as standard. Developed through a collaboration with LEVL, our Intelligence Onboard software, powered by the Geotab platform, provides invaluable insights including battery status, energy usage and costs, live location tracking, charging performance, and range efficiency.

We’re moving towards a future where electric vans are better connected. Internet-connected vans, like our eDeliver 9, already have the power to communicate with other vans and IoT devices. By embracing AI, we are developing our fleet to give you a competitive edge.

Navigating the Course towards Autonomous EV Commercial Vans

As innovators in the field of electric vans, our logical next step is to produce self-driving models. Building on our recent partnership with TuSimple, developers of the world’s most advanced self-driving technology, we’ve already started testing the first generation of Maxus autonomous vehicles, using LiDAR software for onboard guidance. Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), works like radar, emitting laser pulses to map your surroundings, gauge distances, and safely static and moving objects in your driving line.

In the meantime, we continue to make improvements to our Advanced Driver Assistant System (ADAS), which is standard in Maxus electric commercial vans. ADAS, a semi-automated system, plays a critical role in safeguarding businesses against accidents caused by driver fatigue and human error.

Features such as ‘collision avoidance’ and ‘pedestrian detection’ are highly valued by fleets, as highlighted in the 2022 Arval Mobility Observatory Barometer. Recognising the significance of accident prevention, our engineers are continually refining ADAS functionalities by integrating adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and night vision capabilities.

The Intersection of Electric and Intelligent Commercial Vans

With features like cruise control, lane-change assist, autonomous braking, speed alerts, blind-area monitoring, parking sensors, a reversing camera, and a dashboard touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, our new eDeliver 9 represents a significant advancement over traditional work vans. (RAC review, September 2023).

Constant innovation means that Maxus Electrical Commercial Vans are packed with features that help Irish businesses move forward, keep our roads safer for drivers and pedestrians, and keep vans on the road and out of repair shops.

This is just the start. Thanks to advancements in wireless and IoT technologies, our electric vans are becoming more autonomous, capable of interacting with the surrounding environment and making independent decisions.

Electric Commercial Vans and the Future of Transportation in Ireland

Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) technology takes driving to a new level, literally allowing your vans to see around corners. A dedicated short-range communications (DSRC) protocol allows moving vehicles to talk to one another, update their drivers as to what’s ahead, and even take evasive action.

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology allows electric vans in your fleet to interact with the power grid, providing opportunities to sell surplus electricity back to the grid during idle periods.

Our ultimate goal is to achieve ‘Vehicle-to-Everything’ (V2X) connectivity. This will allow your fleet to seamlessly communicate with traffic infrastructure, including traffic lights, metres, and charging stations, facilitating smoother traffic flow, reduced energy waste, and simplified parking and refuelling processes.

 Keeping Your Fleet at the Forefront of EV Innovation

Launched in 2021, the Maxus Technical Training Academy is a showcase for electric vehicle innovation and a centre of excellence for Electric Van technicians. Hundreds of mechanics have already graduated from our courses and learned skills that are fundamental to Ireland’s electric transition and future prosperity.

As AI and IoT technologies become mainstream, Maxus is dedicated to keeping our customers ahead by integrating these technologies where beneficial. Find out how innovations like Intelligence Onboard have the power to transform your business performance. Contact us today to discuss the Maxus range of electric vans in Ireland. Maxus electric vans come with a five-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year warranty on the high-voltage battery. We also offer nationwide breakdown assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• Harris Group enters new phase of business growth with appointment of new senior management team 
• 2024 transformation to position Harris Group for long-term success says CEO
• Double digit growth forecast for 2024 as new customer showroom planned for Naas Road headquarters 

6 February 2024: Harris Group, Ireland’s largest privately owned automotive distributor has announced a strategic restructuring of the company, including the appointment of a new senior management team, positioning the business for a new era of growth under the leadership of Chairperson and CEO, Denise Harris. 

Building on the legacy of Pino Harris who founded the company in 1961, Denise Harris will be joined by four new executive directors who will drive the business in its key areas of sales and distribution, after sales, parts and assembly and training, alongside its finance and IT functions. The appointments, together with the restructuring of the business have been designed to prepare Harris Group for its next phase of growth and future proof it for current and future generations.  

Speaking about the future of the business, Denise Harris said: “We have ambitious targets for double digit growth across all of our brands in both Ireland and the UK and are growing our dealership network while also investing heavily in training. The redevelopment of our Dublin headquarters will result in a more open site meaning fleet, commercial and private buyers can visit our new public showrooms at their leisure and meet with our commercial automotive experts.”  The new showrooms are at an advanced stage of planning and will open to the public over the coming months. 

Located on some 24 acres on the Naas Rd. in Dublin, Harris Group is already Ireland’s largest retail sales centre for the commercial vehicle sector with marque brands including Isuzu, MAXUS and Higer Bus & Coach. With a substantial parts stockholding, the business is also the largest parts distribution centre in the country and a recognised leader in the future of motoring both in Ireland and the UK. 

New leadership team

The new senior management team working alongside Chairperson and CEO, Denise Harris brings together some of the most experienced professionals in the motoring industry whose remit will be to support Denise Harris in taking the business forward:

• Brian Patterson has joined the business as Group Managing Director developing and driving the group’s strategy and ambitious growth targets with responsibility for the business’ P&L. 
• Mark Barrett has been appointed to the role of Managing Director of Group Franchises, with responsibility for the growth and success of the group’s brands, sales, dealer development and marketing in Ireland, the UK and right-hand drive Europe, where Harris has the franchise for the MAXUS brand. 
• John Keogh joins the business as Managing Director of Retail Operations, heading up the sales and marketing functions in Ireland and with a focus on technological innovation, which will optimise the modern retailing concept. John will also oversee a number of key divisions including retail sales, service and parts. 
• Barry McGrane is Harris Group’s newly appointed Chief Financial Officer. A vastly experienced finance professional, Barry has more than 30 years’ experience working with both Irish and international businesses across multiple sectors, including motor trade, and will be responsible for Harris Group’s finance and IT functions.

Denise Harris also confirmed that Nigel Birkmyre has joined the Harris Group board. Widely recognised as a trusted leader and advisor to the automotive industry, Nigel will provide counsel and support to the new management team. 

Denise Harris said: “Today marks a transformative moment for the Harris Group. Our strategic restructuring creates a platform for growth and innovation as we re-position the business in line with the evolution of the motoring industry. Together with the new management team, I have undertaken a full review of our operation to ensure we have the optimal structure, the best people and the most advanced processes to future proof the business and to be a progressive industry leader. The company has been operating for more than 60 years and is gearing up for the next 60, and beyond. 

“It’s an exciting time for Harris Group as we enter this new phase of growth. And while we are creating an even more dynamic operation, underpinning all of this change is a consistent commitment to excellence and outstanding customer service. It was important to me that we retained these founding values of the business, honouring the legacy and pioneering spirit of my late husband, Pino Harris.”

2023 growth, 2024 forecasts

Harris Group has reported significant sales growth for 2023, notwithstanding the industry-wide global challenges relating to supply chain and changes in regulatory requirements. Highlights include: 

• The MAXUS range of light commercial vehicles, which includes an extensive range of all-electric vans and the first EV pick-up and MPV in Ireland and the UK, grew by a significant 46% in 2023. 
• Further growth in the region of 60% is anticipated for 2024, which will be complemented by the launch of more new vehicles for both commercial and passenger car drivers.  
• In the UK, MAXUS ranked number one in EV light commercial vehicle sales in December 2023 and fourth overall for the full year, despite having only launched in 2016 (Source: Glass’s)
• Harris Group parts business is growing by ~30% year on year. 
• Sales of bus and coach grew by 19% in 2023 and is forecasted to grow significantly  in 2024 with a UK launch (sales and aftersales) planned this year. 
• While sales of premium brand, Isuzu fell last year, primarily due to model changes and regulatory requirements, Harris Group forecasts sales growth of 50% in 2024, which will be driven, in part, by the much-lauded Isuzu D-MAX. 

Investing in the future

Plans have been approved for the expansion of Harris’ onsite Training Academy, which provides cutting-edge EV (electric vehicle) training for technicians both within the group and across its extensive dealership network. The academy, launched in 2021, has quickly become a premier hub for knowledge exchange and a leading centre of excellence in EV technology education. Denise Harris said: “I am personally committed to supporting the next generation of technicians, engineers and industry professionals and firmly believe in the importance and power of continuous education and training. Future proofing the business is an ongoing process and the training academy is a central component of our long-term investment strategy.” 

Network 

With more than 120 independent dealerships across all its brands and territories Denise Harris confirmed that her team expects to grow the group’s dealership network by 15% in 2024. The territories in which Harris Group operates are: 

• Harris MAXUS sales and aftersales’ function operates in Ireland, the UK and across right hand drive Europe (Cyprus, Malta, Chanel Islands and Isle of Man) 
• Harris Bus and Coach is active in Ireland and the company is gearing up for a sales and aftersales launch in the UK in H2 2024 
• The group has the franchise for Isuzu (sales and aftersales) in Ireland 

In the past three years, staff numbers have increased by 30% and the company plans to optimise its already comprehensive sales and after-sales services and enhance the customer experience through additional on-the-ground support. A recruitment drive is underway for 2024 in line with Harris Group’s long-term growth strategy.

“There is a new energy that is being felt right across our business as a result of the significant changes we are making,” said Denise Harris. “Backed by an incredible team of visionaries, I am confident that the Harris Group will continue to grow at pace, while being recognised as both an industry leader and a pioneer in new and alternative energy vehicles for many years to come.” 

www.harrisgroup.ie 

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Harris MAXUS Dealerships across support local charities ahead of difficult festive period

Harris MAXUS has launched its annual Food Bank Appeal to support people in need across the UK this festive season.

This December, our participating Harris MAXUS dealers across the MAXUS networkwill be aiding their local food bank to ensure that those in need have access to essential resources in the lead up to Christmas.

Participating dealerships will also be accepting non-perishable items for donation and are appealing to members of the public and neighbouring businesses to support where possible.

Mark Barrett, Harris MAXUS Managing Director said: “We were blown away with the support for our food bank campaign last year, so we’ve brought it back for 2023 and we’re hoping to grow on its success. Last year we deployed more than 30 MAXUS vans around the country, delivering food to where it is needed most and supporting the incredible work of local foodbanks through our dealer networks.

As the cost-of-living crisis continues, more people than ever are relying on their local food bank this winter.  In response, we invite MAXUS customers and neighbouring businesses to make a meaningful difference to those most vulnerable by supporting this year’s MAXUS Food Bank Appeal. All donations are welcome however big or small. Together we can really make a difference and help drive change.”

Independent Food Aid Network[1] has reported that food banks in the UK are facing unprecedented challenges due to the cost-of-living crisis as increased demand on their resources are coupled with a decrease in donations.

Those who wish to donate to the MAXUS Food Bank Appeal are asked to supply long-life non-perishable food items, such as, pastas, rice, noodles, tinned fruit and veg, jars of sauce, jams, powdered soup, cereals, lentils, beans, pulses, tea, coffee, and tinned meat. Participating MAXUS dealerships will be accepting food donations until the 18^th of December.

Charities that need vans for donation collections or deliveries in the run up to Christmas can reach out to their local MAXUS dealership for support.

^[1] IFAN SURVEY August 2023

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Dublin, 7^th July 2023 – Five days, five cities, 100 drivers, fifty electric vehicles and almost 1200 e-mile across the UK and Ireland, today saw Dublin host the conclusion of GreenFleet magazine’s EV Rally, organised to demonstrate the role EVs play in the world today. 

The Five Cities EV Rally challenge, which started in Cardiff on July 3^rd, saw the drivers power into Dublin and cross the finishing line at the headquarters of commercial vehicle distributor, HARRIS MAXUS, a brand seen as one of the trailblazers of the EV market in Ireland and the UK.

As well has hosting the finishing event, HARRIS MAXUS took part in the electric challenge with a team of four drivers completing the full 1200-mile (2,000km) route in two state-of-the-art MIFA 9 (electric MPV) and T90EV (electric pickup truck) vehicles.

Mrs Denise Harris, CEO of The Harris Group, welcomed participating teams and rally organisers as they crossed the finish line: “We’re thrilled to welcome the EV Rally to Dublin and are honoured to be part of this fantastic showcase. This event is an important one, demonstrating EV capabilities in terms of power, technology, and real-world range.

“The road to zero is long, and we are still a while away from the finish line, but events such as this help encourage drivers to transition to EV and highlight to stakeholders and governments alike that there is still work to do to drive forth the move to net zero motoring.

As the Official Event Logistics Partner, MAXUS supported the EV Rally with transport solutions, providing rally organisers with supporting vehicles through each stage of the event.

Following the success of the inaugural EV Rally in 2022 which saw drivers travel from the tip of Scotland at John O’Groats to Land’s End at the bottom of Britain, this year’s rally upped the ante, expanded its route to include Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The 50-strong convoy of electric vehicles was made up of eLCVs, e-motorcycles and zero-emission HGVs which were driven by fleet professionals, key industry people, media and celebrities. 

The teams set off from Cardiff and travel through Bristol, Heathrow, Wembley and Leicester before finishing the first stage at Nottingham. On day two, drivers travel 316 e-miles through York and head north to Edinburgh city.

The third leg saw the group travel from Edinburgh to Cairnes on the west coast of Scotland before boarding a ferry to Belfast in Northern Ireland. Day four and five saw the delegates loop through Cloughmills and Ballymoney to Newry in Co Down before making their way south of the border to Co Westmeath. 

The rally participants then veered east to enjoy a scenic drive through the Wicklow countryside before ending the 1,200-mile (2,000km) journey at Harris Group’s headquarters in Dublin.

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