The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as the all-new Nissan Townstar van emerges victorious, securing not one, but two prestigious accolades at the 2024 What Van? Awards. The Townstar, successor to the highly acclaimed e-NV200, not only claimed the title of Compact Van of the Year but also soared to the top, earning the coveted 'Electric Van of the Year' award – a testament to its groundbreaking design and innovative features.
Compact Van of the Year: A Testament to Excellence
The Townstar's triumph as the Compact Van of the Year is a reflection of its widespread popularity since its launch. Designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses and expedite the shift toward electrification, the Townstar offers versatility with a choice between petrol and electric powertrains.
Setting itself apart in the compact van segment, the Townstar boasts over 20 cutting-edge technologies. From Intelligent Emergency Braking and Hands-Free Parking to Intelligent Cruise Control and Around View Monitor, the van is equipped with advanced safety systems and driver assistance features that position it at the forefront of its category.
Francesco Russiello, LCV category manager at Nissan GB, expressed his delight at the recognition, stating, ''Here at Nissan, we know what a fantastic vehicle Townstar is, and it's wonderful to receive official confirmation of this at the respected What Van? Awards.''
Electric Van of the Year: Pioneering Electrification
The true highlight of Townstar's triumph lies in clinching the 'Electric Van of the Year' award. In a fiercely competitive landscape, the Townstar electric vehicle (EV) stood out, competing against a diverse array of electric offerings from various manufacturers.
In response to the growing demand for sustainable solutions, particularly in the context of tougher emissions standards and urban access restrictions, the Townstar EV presents an ideal solution. Its 45kWh battery, coupled with intelligent energy management and battery thermal cooling technology, offers a class-leading zero-emission range of 183 miles WLTP Combined (or up to 269 miles on the City Cycle).
Charging the Townstar EV is a breeze, with options for both AC charging (up to 22kW) and 80kW DC CCS quick-charging. Remarkably, the latter enables users to charge the battery from 15% to 80% in as little as 37 minutes, enhancing convenience and reducing downtime for businesses relying on this cutting-edge electric van.
Francesco Russiello emphasized the vehicle's alignment with the industry's changing landscape, stating, ''With tougher emissions standards, urban access restrictions, and ever-increasing demand for last-mile delivery, businesses large and small need to find effective and sustainable solutions to remain competitive and optimize their operations. Townstar fits the bill perfectly.''
Versatility in Performance and Assurance
Beyond its electric prowess, the Townstar offers impressive carrying capabilities. With a generous loadspace of 3.3m³ (L1) or 4.3m³ (L2) and a payload of up to 770kg, it proves itself as a reliable companion for various business needs. The maximum braked towing capacity of 1,500kg adds an extra layer of versatility to its capabilities.
Nissan's commitment to quality and reassurance is evident through the Townstar's warranty and assistance offerings. Owners benefit from an industry-leading, pan-European five-year or 100,000-mile warranty and five-year roadside assistance. The EV version goes a step further with an eight-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty, providing peace of mind to businesses embracing electric mobility.
In conclusion, the Nissan Townstar's double triumph at the 2024 What Van? Awards solidifies its position as a trailblazer in the world of commercial vehicles. Its recognition as the Compact Van of the Year and Electric Van of the Year underscores Nissan's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering top-notch solutions for businesses navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing automotive landscape.