Stellantis Pro One has unveiled a new generation of compact van variants across its Citroën, Fiat, Peugeot and Vauxhall brands created around the concept that most van drivers work alone most of the time.
The new range consists of the Citroën Berlingo Van First, Fiat Professional Doblò EasyPRO, Opel Combo Start and Peugeot Partner Active, all of which sit below their respective model ranges and have been developed to deliver a more affordable entry point to Stellantis' small van options.
The four vans are said to share the same concept, which Stellantis calls Smart Compact Van, with customer analysis showing that around 40% of buyers are not interested in a three-seat layout, while professional drivers spend around 90% of their working time travelling alone.
Based on the research, Stellantis engineers have rethought the traditional compact van cabin, replacing the standard passenger bench arrangement with a new Flexiseat system.
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The modular passenger seat folds away to increase load volume by 0.5m³, creating additional room for parcels, tools or equipment in the passenger footwell.
An optional Modutable can also be fitted, turning the folded passenger area into a workstation or dining table. Unlike traditional van conversion equipment, the Modutable can be added at any point during the vehicle’s life.
Further innovations include the removable Moduconsole centre storage unit, Dashbox dashboard storage compartments, a Drivedrawer beneath the driver’s seat and the optional Moduwork three-seat configuration, which can be converted into a storage area or load-through system for longer items. A 220V power outlet is also available for charging laptops, tablets and other devices.
Despite their lower positioning within each range, Stellantis says the new vans retain the same core capabilities as their more established siblings. Payload capacities range from 750kg to 1,000kg, while load volumes extend from 3.3m³ to 4.4m³ depending on specification and body length. Two body lengths remain available.
Powertrain options include a new battery-electric version offering up to 270km of range, alongside petrol and diesel engines with manual transmissions. A mild-hybrid option is due to join the range next year.
Eric Laforge, Stellantis Pro One global senior vice-president, said: “Being a leader implies a great responsibility. Excellence is expected by the customers, including those yet to be won. This is why, listening closely to their feedback, we have developed a rational, comfortable and modular vehicle, delivering original solutions that are a real unique selling proposition.”
Pricing will undercut the current range by around €1,500 for the diesel models and as much as €2,500 for the electric vans. Order books for the four new compact vans are scheduled to open in September, with market launches beginning in November.
