CITROEN has extended its zero emissions light commercial range with the introduction of a new Berlingo Electric L2 550 LX LCV.

The new model joins the existing Berlingo Electric L1 635 LX model in the range and is on sale now at £22,022.

The new L2 van is powered by the same electric drivetrain as the Berlingo Electric L1 version, using a compact and efficient permanent magnet synchronous motor developing 49kW (67bhp) and maximum torque of 200Nm.

The front wheels are driven through a speed reducer and single ratio gearbox.

It also comes with 250mm more load length than the existing L1 model (2,050mm compared to 1,800mm) and the load volume is extended to 3.7 metres (in comparison to 3.3m).

Another bonus is a standard specification folding passenger bench seat and the load length can be further extended to 3,250mm with a load volume of 4.1 cubic metres.

The lithium-ion battery packs are fitted beneath the load floor, providing the same load area dimensions as an equivalent diesel powered Berlingo L2 model.

The new Berlingo Electric L2 version also features twin sliding side loading doors as standard.

All new Berlingo L1 and L2 electric models now benefit from a 16A, Type 2 charging cable, supplied as standard with the vehicles.

This cable is compatible with the majority of public access charging points, and since November 2016, there is also a government workplace grant that enables customers to take advantage of a price reduction for Type 2 EV charge points.

The battery packs offer a range of up to 106 miles, measured on the NEDC cycle. Both Berlingo Electric vans can be re-charged to 80 per cent of capacity in 30 minutes from a rapid charge point.