Citroën UK has signed an agreement to supply all-electric ë-Berlingo and ë-Dispatch vans for Big Issue Group’s magazine distribution operation across the UK.
A total of 16 vans will initially join the Big Issue Group fleet in Bournemouth, Bristol, Bath, Norwich and Newcastle, with more vans to be added over the next three years.
The Big Issue Group fleet transports over two million magazines to 3,300 vendors in a year, covering more than 350,000 miles annually across the UK.
One of its key aims is to make its delivery process more sustainable and to tackle its carbon emissions.
Citroën’s ë-Berlingo Van features a 50kWh battery and a 136hp electric motor, with a zero emission range of up to 171 miles. The ë-Dispatch, meanwhile, comes with up to 205 miles of range.
Both Citroën electric vans support up to 100kW rapid (DC) charging, with a 0 to 80% charge taking 30 minutes.
Eurig Druce, Citroën UK’s Managing Director, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Big Issue Group in their important work ‘changing lives through enterprise’, and in particular to support their transition to electric vehicles so they can become more sustainable.”
Russell Blackman, Big Issue Group’s Managing Director of Commercial, said: “Citroën’s market-leading approach to innovation and affordability of electric vehicles is the exact reason why they are the ideal partner to work with Big Issue Group.
“Our partnership will allow us to make even greater strides in the support and services we provide for the most marginalised across the country.”
