Vauxhall’s electric range will be expanded this autumn with the addition of the Combo-e Life. A passenger version of the popular Combo van, the e-Life will offer much in the way of versatility and practicality alongside a few creature comforts and that all-important zero-emissions powertrain.

This is the first time Vauxhall has released details and images of the Combo-e Life, which follows in the tyre tracks of the Vivaro-e Life in creating a practical passenger car out of what is traditionally a van. Two sizes of the Combo-e Life will be offered – Medium and XL – and we reckon either could become a popular choice for taxi fleets.

Powertrain and performance

PSA Group’s (now under the Stellantis umbrella) ubiquitous powertrain has, unsurprisingly, found its way into the Combo-e Life. As in every other application, this means the van gets 134bhp and 192lb-ft, delivering 0-60mph in 11.2 seconds. Under the floor and between the front and rear axles is mounted the 50kWh battery, which enables the Combo-e Life to travel up to 174 miles on the WLTP test.

A full charge using the maximum 100kW DC input takes 30 minutes. A standard single-phase 7.4kW on-board charger enables comfortable overnight charging, whilst an optional 11kW three-phase AC charger allows for faster charging at public or destination chargers.

Interior practicality

The real draw of the Vauxhall Combo-e Life is going to be in its versatility and practicality, in a package that has the same footprint as a regular hatch. In standard, Medium configuration, it’s 4.4 metres long and can be had with five or seven seats. With five seats there is 597 litres of luggage space with the rear bench in place, or a whopping 2126 litres with it folded.

The XL version is slightly longer, at 4.75 metres, but benefits from 850 litres of luggage space with the seats in place, and a cavernous 2693 litres with them stowed. In both the Medium and XL variants, the second row of seats is 60/40 as standard, with 35/30/35 an option.

Whilst people and commercial goods are likely to be the Combo-e Life’s typical load, Vauxhall handily points out that for more lifestyle-orientated buyers, a surfboard could be carried inside. If that isn’t enough room, it is rated to tow up to 750kg and even has trailer stability technology, plus an electronically controlled panoramic roof which adds a 36 litre overhead storage compartment and funky LED lights when specified.

Tech and safety

All versions of the Combo-e Life get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, whilst the Vauxhall Multimedia Navi Pro system, featuring an eight inch touchscreen and navigation with traffic updates, is also available. Through this, drivers can create routes around available charging infrastructure. Finally, the MyVauxhall app allows owners to check and control charging.

According to Vauxhall, the Combo-e Life is class-leading when it comes to safety tech. It includes forward collision alert with pedestrian protection, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, driver drowsiness alert, traffic sign recognition and hill descent control. A panoramic rear camera is available as an option.

Price and availability

Prices for the Vauxhall Combo-e Life will be confirmed closer to its autumn release. We’ll update you as soon as we know.