COMMON QUESTIONS
WHICH BRANDS ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE?
Renault, Vauxhall, Mercedes Benz and Fiat all produce platforms which can be produced as an electric minibus. Ford have plug-in hybrid options. MAN &Â Maxus have platforms available which will be developed in due course. In 2022 Ford will release a fully electric Transit and there will be a new contender in the form of Arrival
HOW DO I KNOW IF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Many factors govern the suitablility of any vehicle. Current electric vehicle platforms are not directly comparable to diesel variants. Range, payload, auxilliary power and price all play a part in determining whether an electric minibus is right for an organisation.
ARE THERE ANY HYBRID OPTIONS FOR A MINIBUS?
The only manufacturer to offer a hybrid minibus is Ford in the form of the Custom PHEV. This has a reported electric only range of 33 miles and a petrol range extender which gives the vehicle a total range of over 300 miles. This is available with up to 8 seats or 7 seats and 1 wheelchair
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CHARGE AN ELECTRIC MINIBUS?
Charging times depend on capacity of on board charger, speed of charging point and condition of vehicle battery. Other factors such as temperature have an effect
HOW DO I INSTALL AN ELECTRIC MINIBUSÂ CHARGING POINT?
Charging stations are compact, weatherproof and easy to install – taking as little as two to three hours to fit a unit. But don't be tempted by your local electrician. The best thing to do is contact a certified OLEV (Office for Low-Emissions Vehicles) installer and you’ll able to claim a government grant in the UK towards it.
WHAT IS REGENERATIVE BRAKING?
Careful driving will improve the vehicle’s range. When the accelerator pedal is released an electric vehicle automatically gently brakes, to recuperate energy from the vehicle’s movement and this energy recharges the battery. A careful driver can make use of this recuperation, reducing the need to use the brake pedal when approaching a corner or a road junction.
CAN I USE A DIESEL MINIBUSÂ AS A PART EXCHANGE?
Any minibus at less than 10 years or 100,000 miles may be included as a part exchange against the cost of a new minibus. Vehicles older than 10 years or with more than 100,000 miles may be considered subject to specification, service history and condition.
WHAT KINDS OF FINANCING OPTIONS DO YOU OFFER?
Leasing and Hire Purchase options are available for all vehicles offered by Minibus Options. Terms up to 5 years and up to 20,000 miles per year are available tailored to your specific requirements.