Nissan reveals the new Townstar van

The new Nissan Townstar features petrol and fully electric powertrain options.

As a manufacturer, Nissan has already been charging ahead with electric models for some years now. Indeed, its e-NV200 was one of the early pioneers in the sector and its new compact light commercial vehicle, the Townstar, continues in that tradition – but with the addition of a fuel-powered option. Not only that, but the manufacturer is claiming no less than a suite of 20+ new technologies across the Townstar portfolio, as well as a versatile range of configurations.

The fully electric version features a 44kWh battery and, as such, is a solution in sync with tougher emissions standards and the onward march of urban low emission zones. The new van will offer 245Nm of torque and 177 miles of range – a 43 per cent improvement over the outgoing e-NV200. Alternatively, a 1.3-litre petrol engine model will be available, which is fully compliant with the latest Euro 6d-Full emissions regulations and produces 130HP and 240Nm of torque.

Versatile solution
For a tradesman the business end of any van is the load bay and the Townstar offers up to 4.3m³ of space, with 800kg of cargo capacity. That area is accessed by large sliding doors on the side with the option of 60/40 French doors with 180-degree opening at the rear. There’s also a suite of smart storage solutions and a dedicated space for on-board office tools. For anyone transporting plant or equipment by trailer there’s 1,500kg of towing capacity on offer.

Safety first
Amongst those aforementioned technologies, safety and driver assistance features very prominently. Side Wind Assist and Trailer Sway Assist, is joined by Intelligent Emergency Braking featuring Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection and Junction Assist, whilst there’s also Hands-Free Parking and Intelligent Cruise Control.

Moreover, in a first in the compact van segment, Nissan is integrating its Around View Monitor (AVM) solution into the Townstar. Using a system of cameras, a 360-degree overview of the area around the vehicle is displayed to the driver. When behind the wheel builders can also enjoy the ProPILOT advanced driver assistance system. Supporting motorists with highway driving, the feature allows the vehicle to automatically slow to a full stop and accelerate by following the vehicle ahead, as well as keeping it centred in the lane – even around a gentle curve.

Elsewhere, connectivity is covered with E-Call, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and wireless phone charging all of which are accessible via an 8in. touchscreen, which in the fully electric all-new Townstar is linked to a 10in. digital combimeter in front of the driver.

The Townstar is the latest vehicle to be introduced under the Nissan NEXT transformation plan, which prioritises sustainability. It’s also solution that has been specifically targeted at SMEs, and those operating in urban environments where a compact unit will come into its own. In that context, builders will welcome the combination of space and cargo capacity with features that include a hands-free parking system for complex city parking.

Much of the Townstar’s styling, including the seat and door trims, centre console and instrument panel, are derived from the same manufacturer’s Ariya electric crossover, and reflect inherent passenger-car-like comfort as a consequence. That’s a theme that continues through the signature standard LED headlamps and an aerodynamic front shield integrating an Kumiko pattern and a V-motion design with daytime running lamps.

Likewise, the petrol version stands out with an interlock grille and “air-curtains”, which optimise airflow around the front bumper and front wheels, reducing drag and improving fuel consumption.

5-Year warranty
Nissan owners operators can benefit from 5-Year or 100,000-mile warranty, in addition to the eight-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty for the EV version. This includes bumper-to-bumper protection, paintwork guarantee, genuine parts and accessories and roadside assistance.

*All figures pending homologation

For further information on the New Nissan Townstar visit https://www.nissan.co.uk/vehicles/new-vehicles/townstar.html