Innovation Automotive, the UK’s first multi-brand, all-electric automotive company, will make its first UK appearance at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show at the end of August.

IA has ambitious plans to simplify the process of switching to electric, and bring a new level of accessibility to the market.

The firm’s introduction into the UK light commercial vehicle market comes at a pivotal time for a sector that has been slow to adopt electric alternatives. Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders data shows that, in July 2021, alternatively fuelled LCV sales accounted for just 2.68% of sales. In contrast, 29% of new car registrations in the same month were powered by hybrid, plug-in hybrid or battery-electric technology.

Innovation Automotive DFSK EC35
DFSK EC35
Innovation Automotive: DFSK LCV

The first vehicle that IA will bring to the UK will be the all-electric DFSK EC35, a compact and efficient all-electric panel van ideal for inner-city and last-mile deliveries.

Despite its compact dimensions – it’s just 4,500mm long and 1,680mm wide – the EC35 promises to be impressively capable. With a gross vehicle weight of 2,600kg, it boasts a maximum payload of 950kg and a loading volume of 4.8m3.

Powering the DFSK EC35 is a 39kWh battery that delivers a range of over 150 miles and can be recharged to 100% capacity in just 90 minutes using a rapid charger.

The DFSK EC35 will be swiftly followed by the EC31, an electric chassis cab that combines practicality with zero-emissions motoring. Both models will be covered by a five-year warranty.

IA also has an exclusive agreement to provide Skywell commercial vehicles and will be introducing Skywell products to the UK in the near future.

Innovation Automotive Skywell D07
Skywell D07
Innovation Automotive: UK launch

Set to officially launch in the UK later this year, with its first vehicles to go on sale in early 2022, IA also has ambitions to distribute a range of passenger vehicles in the UK and Europe.

“Many operators are still unsure of the business case for switching to electric, and perceptions remain that it is too risky, too complicated and too expensive,” explains Paul Brigden, CEO of IA. “But change is coming and it’s coming fast so we’re here to help fleets of all sizes make the switch. Our commitment is to source the best alternative 100% electric LCVs, to provide a first-class advisory service to our customers with an accessible and cost-effective after-sales network.

“We will officially launch later this year, but we’re at the CV Show to introduce ourselves, our initial product range and, most importantly, to listen to our future customers to help fine-tune our service.”

Phil Huff
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