Reflex trial out the Peugeot e-Partner

To survive in the world of work, electric vans must be fit for purpose. That means delivering a lifetime of load hauls and job calls without fail.

So that companies can be sure an electric vehicle is tough enough to cope, we offer the Reflex Renewable Drive programme, through which businesses and fleet managers can test drive a range of electric vehicles so they are fully briefed on each model’s capabilities.

The Reflex team use the programme to ensure they also have hands-on experience of how vehicles perform in typical business use.

The Peugeot e - Partner is our latest review model as it competes in the demanding compact van segment. 

Exterior Design 

The Peugeot e-Partner delivers a sleek and modern exterior design that catches the eye with its simplicity.

While it’s not flashy, it has a professional and polished look that feels well-suited for both urban and commercial use.

The compact size makes it perfect for city driving, and the design is aerodynamic, which not only enhances the vehicle's range but also improves handling.

It’s a van that looks understated yet refined, and the blend of practical design elements adds to its overall appeal.

Interior Design 

Inside, the e-Partner is equally impressive. For a van, I was surprised at how comfortable the seating was, especially during longer journeys.

The cabin feels modern and well-equipped with all the necessary gadgets, such as Apple CarPlay and a flat steering wheel.

The flat steering wheel design was particularly useful for providing added comfort on extended trips, as I found it easier to handle and control. 

Storage space is well thought out, with plenty of room for everyday essentials. The area in the back is spacious enough for most business needs, and interior lighting in the back proved useful when working in darker conditions.

Driving Experience 

The Peugeot e-Partner performed admirably across various driving conditions, including city streets, motorways, and country roads.

I found the van smooth and responsive, though I did notice that the battery drained more quickly when driving at higher speeds, particularly above 50mph.

While driving on the A46, where the road surface wasn’t ideal, the van still managed to maintain a smooth ride, showcasing its solid suspension.

There are three driving modes – Power, Normal, and Eco – each offering different performance characteristics. Power mode delivered quicker acceleration but drained the battery faster, while Eco mode helped conserve range but compromised on heating and acceleration. Normal mode provided a good balance, making it suitable for most driving conditions.

What stood out to me the most was the comfort of the van. Despite being a commercial vehicle, it felt more like driving a car, particularly in terms of smoothness and ease of handling. The seats were incredibly comfortable, and even after a two-hour journey, I didn’t feel stiff or uncomfortable. The combination of comfort, modern features, and ample storage made it a pleasure to drive. 

Range and Charging 

With a range of around 200 miles, the e-Partner is well-suited for city driving and short commutes. However, when driving on motorways, the range did decrease slightly, particularly when travelling at higher speeds. 

Charging was straightforward with both AC and DC charging options, though I did encounter a minor inconvenience – when charging the vehicle, I couldn’t fully open the side door due to the charging cable being in the way. This made accessing the rear area a bit trickier during charging stops, so its something to bear in mind that before you charge, ensure that if you need items out of the vehicle, to do so beforehand.

Up-To-Date Technology 

The 8-inch touchscreen was easy to navigate, and the dashboard instruments were simple and modern, making the technology in the e-Partner very user-friendly.

The wireless Apple CarPlay was a standout feature, as it automatically connected without any issues, making it easy to play music or navigate with Maps. The sound system was surprisingly good for a van, delivering clear and loud audio.

Another feature I appreciated was the electronic handbrake, which added a modern touch and was easy to use. The van also came with cruise control, though it wasn’t adaptive, and rear parking sensors made manoeuvring in tight spaces much easier.

The Peugeot e-Partner exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort, practicality, and technology. It’s a well-designed van that doesn’t compromise on features, offering a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Though there are a few minor improvements that could be made, such as better side-door access during charging and some tweaks to the heating system in Eco mode, I would highly recommend this vehicle for anyone needing a van for city use with minimal motorway driving. It combines modern features with practicality, making it a strong contender in the electric van market. 

To find out more about Reflex Renewable Drive or the electric options that would be most suitable for your business, contact the Reflex Vehicle Hire team.
 

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