Compact, functional, low-cost. Stellantis Pro One launches the new Smart Compact Van range

Users of compact vans travel alone about 90 percent of the time, and 40 percent of them aren’t interested in the three-seat configuration. These figures were revealed by Stellantis during the highly anticipated online press conference that marked the international launch of the Stellantis Pro One Smart Compact Van range, which is available in four distinct models under the Fiat Professional, Citroën, Opel, and Peugeot brands (respectively, the Fiat Professional Doblò EasyPRO, Citroën Berlingo Van FIRST, Opel Combo START, and Peugeot Partner ACTIVE).

Stellantis Smart Compact Van

Beyond the names and features, the new product unveiled by the group, which will be available with both internal combustion and electric powertrains, represents a further step on an almost philosophical level and aligns with the narrative already established in the passenger car sector. Stellantis aims, in fact, to provide customers with vehicles that are as practical as possible, eliminating the superfluous to focus on what, according to the group led by Antonio Filosa and, more specifically for commercial vehicles, by Eric Laforge, truly matters to workers.

In particular, let’s say, to professionals and young people entering the workforce who need a commercial vehicle. It is no coincidence, in fact, that the presentation also emphasized the price factor, with a price difference of up to 1,300 euros less than the current lineup for internal combustion engine versions (diesel and gasoline) and up to 3,000 euros less for electric versions, subject to the inevitable differences across individual markets.

Flexibility is the watchword

In short, this is an entry-level lineup that undoubtedly stands out for its flexibility, starting with what we believe is the most interesting new feature of the new Compact Vans: the so-called Flexiseat, a modular, fold-down passenger seat that allows you to increase cargo volume by creating extra space when traveling alone. And to go with it is the so-called “Modutable”, designed as a practical support for a mobile office or as a surface to rest on during breaks. Here, in summary, are the additional solutions offered by Stellantis, which also provides a 220-volt outlet in the new lineup to power electronic devices.

• Moduconsole, a center console that can be instantly removed and easily stowed in the cargo area, equipped with cup holders and a closed storage compartment.
• Dashbox, the dashboard with two closed storage compartments and cup holders.
• Drivedrawer, a drawer under the seat for storing electronic devices.
• Moduwork, the configuration with a third center seat that accommodates up to three people. When not needed, the center seat transforms to increase functionality: it features a closed compartment and can be combined with the passenger seat and a folding table, or the space can be used to transport long items.

What shouldn’t change is the load capacity, with a payload ranging from 750 kg to nearly one metric ton, as well as the cargo volume of between 3.3 and 4.4 cubic meters. Even in terms of connectivity and ADAS – which are, moreover, regulated by law – the features appear similar to those of the current entry-level lineup from Stellantis brands. And the vehicle’s interior configuration can also be modified at a later date, should users’ needs change. Thus, flexibility of use to “drive the transition with ‘affordable’ products” – that is, within the reach of many budgets – given that the price difference, especially for electric vehicles, continues to be a factor in professionals’ purchasing decisions. “Think of young operators who want to enter the market and are looking for solutions that provide everything they need,” said Stellantis executives during the online presentation. Because “not all professionals can afford the extra costs associated with the transition.”

Electric, diesel, and petrol options

The new Stellantis Smart Compact Vans, however, are not just electric. There’s a zero-emission version with a 136 hp electric motor offering a range of about 270 km (we’ll see later whether this is based on a combined or urban cycle); there are diesel versions with 100 and 130 hp, and finally, a gasoline version with 110 hp. All the ICE models come equipped with a manual transmission. And next year – a detail that’s not exactly minor – the mild-hybrid version of the new vans will also arrive.

Practical, comfortable, and modular. These are the three adjectives chosen by Eric Laforge, Global Senior Vice President of Stellantis Pro One, to describe the project, which aims to break away from conventional norms in the name of pragmatism. We’ll see if the market recognizes these efforts; certainly, the group, which, with its brands, holds nearly half of the European market in this segment, has certainly made waves.