2021 INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR CROWN AWARDED TO GROUPE PSA ELECTRIC LCVS

Groupe PSA’s lightcommercial vehicle (LCV) electro-mobility technological developments have been acknowledged in winning the International Van of the Year Award 2021 (IVOTY).

The highest honour in the LCV industry globally, which celebrates its 30th anniversary, was announced on 17 December 2020.

The French automotive company’s jointly developed Peugeot e-Expert, Citroën e-Dispatch/ë-Jumpy, and Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro-e, received the majority of first preference votes from the 24-member IVOTY jury with 131 points.

The two finalists from Mercedes-Benz, the eSprinter and the latest Vito, were second and third respectively on 55 and 36 points. Ford, with its new Transit Active & Trail models, was fourth.

Commenting on PSA’s achievement (the second such award in three years) Jarlath Sweeney,

IVOTY jury chairman, said: “Congratulations to Group PSA on its stringent research, development and investment on producing an excellent range of electric powered vans that exceed expectations and without compromise.”

The ‘PSA triplets’ were lauded for being the first electric vans to be sold across Europe with a range of more than 300km, offering total operating costs on the same level as their internal combustion engine counterparts, their smooth and silent driveline and consistent DC quick charging, and offering variety to cater to different businesses.

Xavier Peugeot, senior vice-president of Groupe PSA’s LCV business unit said: “Groupe PSA is very proud and happy to receive this prestigious International Van of the Year 2021 Award and I warmly thank the jury members for having selected our vehicles.

This award confirms the relevance of the electrification strategy we have designed for our LCV range — in which electrification means no compromises for our customers.”