B-ON Pelkan 2025 Review: Budget High-Payload EV Van

The B-ON Pelkan emerges as a compelling option in the electric commercial vehicle market, prioritizing affordability, payload capacity, and urban usability over luxury features. Designed for last-mile delivery and city-based operations, this Portuguese-built van challenges established players with its lightweight construction and competitive specs, making it a potential game-changer for cost-conscious fleets.

Overview and Key Specifications

Launched with a focus on budget-conscious buyers, the Pelkan skips unnecessary frills to deliver essential performance. Available in two variants—Pelkan 43 and Pelkan 54—it caters to operators needing reliable daily range without excessive upfront costs. Starting around £30,000 excluding VAT, it undercuts many rivals while promising low ownership expenses through efficient electric powertrain and minimal maintenance.

Both models share a front-wheel-drive layout with an 85kW (114bhp) electric motor producing 260Nm of torque. Top speed caps at 68mph, aligning with its urban focus rather than highway dominance. Gross vehicle weight sits at 3.5 tonnes, enabling a standout payload of over 1,350kg—higher than many compact EV vans.

Powertrain Options at a Glance

This table highlights the Pelkan’s edge in payload and range for its class, outperforming equivalents like the Maxus eDeliver 3 in efficiency.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Behind the wheel, the Pelkan prioritizes straightforward usability over sporty thrills. Acceleration feels adequate for town runs, with instant torque providing decent shove from standstill, though reviewers note a slight delay in throttle response. The single driving mode keeps things simple, eliminating complexity for fleet drivers.

Steering is notably light, aided by electric power assistance that demands minimal effort—ideal for frequent maneuvers in tight urban spaces. However, this comes at the cost of feedback, making it feel numb during spirited handling. Ride quality impresses with a planted feel and minimal body roll, thanks to the low-mounted battery pack distributing weight effectively across the wide underbody.

Braking is responsive overall, but some testers reported jerkiness on inclines when releasing the pedal, potentially unsettling in stop-start traffic. Regenerative braking exists but is non-adjustable and subtle, requiring traditional brake use more often than in premium EVs. At moderate speeds around 40mph, cabin noise remains low, with negligible wind rush and a hushed EV hum enhancing comfort.

• Smooth urban acceleration: Instant torque suits delivery stops.
• Light steering: Eases parking in crowded streets.
• Stable handling: Low center of gravity reduces sway.
• Mild drawbacks: Throttle lag and brake judder on hills.

Turning circle measures 13.9 meters, which can extend three-point turns into multi-point efforts, though the standard reversing camera aids precision. Motorway performance strains at higher speeds due to the modest power output, confirming its city-centric design.

Battery, Range, and Charging Capabilities

The Pelkan’s battery packs deliver respectable real-world usability for short-haul operators. The 43.5kWh unit targets 141 miles, while the 53.6kWh option extends to 173 miles under WLTP testing—figures that hold up well against battery-constrained rivals.

Charging is a strong suit: rapid DC sessions from 30-80% take under 35 minutes at 60kW, with a peak capability of 100kW (though not sustained). AC wallbox replenishment requires 8 hours for the smaller pack and 10 for the larger one at 7.4kW. The front grille houses the CCS socket for easy access.

These specs position the Pelkan favorably for multi-stop routes, where frequent top-ups align with depot returns. Efficiency benefits from the van’s lightweight build, squeezing more miles from each kWh.

Interior Design and Practical Features

Cab ergonomics follow a utilitarian ethos: two seats with armrests, manual air conditioning, and a 10-inch central touchscreen running DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Controls remain familiar, including a manual handbrake, appealing to drivers transitioning from diesels.

Materials feel basic—hard plastics dominate without color accents—prioritizing durability over premium appeal. Visibility benefits from a lower seating position versus taller rivals, and cab access is straightforward. Safety kit is minimal, lacking advanced driver aids, though essentials like the reversing camera are standard.

Load area shines with generous volume and a flat floor, supporting the high payload. Lashing points and durable lining cater to trades and logistics.

Practicality for Fleets and Daily Use

At 5,457mm long, the Pelkan matches larger panels in size but excels in cargo efficiency for its weight class. Urban last-mile delivery is its sweet spot, where range suffices for daily circuits without range anxiety. Fleet managers praise the low running costs, high payload, and B-ON’s ecosystem support for maintenance.

Drawbacks include the spartan interior and lack of frills, which may deter owner-drivers seeking comfort. Fit-and-finish shows rough edges, and the ride turns firm over bumps. Still, for volume operators, the value proposition—affordable entry, robust load capacity, and quick charging—outweighs these.

Pros and Cons Summary

Who Should Consider the B-ON Pelkan?

Fleet operators in logistics, trades, or e-commerce fulfillment will find the Pelkan’s blend of capacity, efficiency, and economy hard to beat. It’s less ideal for motorway-heavy routes or drivers prioritizing tech and refinement. As a 2025/2026 entrant, it shakes up the budget EV van segment by defying heavyweight norms with smart, lightweight engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the price of the B-ON Pelkan?

Expect starting prices around £30,000 excluding VAT, positioning it as an entry-level electric van.

How long does it take to charge the Pelkan?

Rapid charging from 30-80% takes 35 minutes at 60kW; full AC charge is 8-10 hours.

What is the payload capacity?

Both models offer over 1,350kg, exceeding many compact EV competitors.

Is the Pelkan suitable for motorways?

Its 68mph top speed and modest power make it better for urban use than sustained high-speed cruising.

Does it have advanced safety features?

Standard kit is basic, including a reversing camera, but lacks driver assistance systems.