Iveco is looking towards the future with the Daily Blue Power range, that offers CNG or electric power, and the manufacturer believes both are viable.
Routeone sister title miniPLUS had the opportunity to drive both varients at a press preview. The Daily Electric is clearly an urban dweller. While it lacks the oomph for high-speed use, it has an excellent range if used correctly. It also offers a comparable total cost of ownership to a diesel. It is suitable now for use as an accessible minibus.
The Daily Electric is available for conversion to passenger-carrying layout at GVWs of 3,500-5,600kg. It is likely that 19 seated passengers or seven wheelchair users could be carried in a minibus that still has a significant range.
Iveco uses a modular battery configuration in the Daily Electric. One, two or three packs are available, giving a maximum range of 200km. The vehicle can be either charged overnight or via a faster system between duties.
Besides the batteries, a supercapacitor is fitted. It harnesses electrical energy recaptured when slowing, which is then returned to the driveline when the accelerator is reapplied.
Find out more – visit http://www.miniplus.co.uk/articles/Iveco_shows_Daily_Blue_Power_CNG_and_electric
