Plug-in hybrids are starting to gain ground in the commercial vehicle world — and it’s easy to see why. For businesses that need to cut emissions but aren’t ready to switch fully to electric, plug-in hybrids offer a middle ground. They can cover short trips on electric power alone, but still have a petrol engine to fall back on for longer runs. With more clean air zones popping up and pressure to lower fleet emissions, vans like these are becoming a much more practical option.
Volkswagen is the latest to jump in, with new plug-in hybrid versions of its Caddy and Multivan. Here’s what they offer and who they’re aimed at.
Caddy eHybrid: Same Space, Lower Emissions
The new Caddy eHybrid uses the same hybrid setup as the Ford Transit Connect, which isn’t a surprise as the two vans share a platform. You get a 1.5-litre petrol engine, a 19.7kWh battery, and an electric motor. Combined, they put out 150PS and 320Nm of torque, with power going through a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Volkswagen says it’ll do up to 74 miles on electric power alone (based on official WLTP testing). Real-world range will likely be lower, especially with a load in the back, but that still makes it a handy option for short delivery runs or city driving. CO2 emissions are rated at just 11g/km, and fuel economy is claimed at nearly 600mpg – again, very optimistic and more of a tax figure than a real-life one.
Importantly, the hybrid system doesn’t eat into space. You still get the same load volume – up to 3.7 cubic metres – and payloads of up to 740kg, depending on the version. The battery is tucked away under the floor, so the back of the van stays just as practical.
You can get the eHybrid with either the standard or long-wheelbase (Maxi) body, and across all three trim levels: Commerce, Commerce Plus, and Commerce Pro. Prices start from £28,435 excluding VAT.
Multivan eHybrid 4Motion: A Rare Hybrid Seven-Seater
The Multivan eHybrid 4Motion is a bit different. It uses the same hybrid system as the Caddy but adds all-wheel drive – the engine powers the front wheels, and the electric motor powers the rear.
It’s good for a claimed 57 miles of electric-only driving, with emissions listed at 19g/km and fuel economy of just over 350mpg. Again, those numbers are great for a tax bill but should be taken with caution if you’re working out running costs.
Inside, the Multivan keeps its flexibility. You can still fit seven people comfortably, and there’s a huge boot – 469 litres with all seats in, or 1,844 litres if you remove the third row in the longer version. Trim levels include Life and Style, and both standard and long body versions are available.
Prices start at £45,465 excluding VAT, which undercuts its main rival, the Ford Tourneo Custom PHEV.
Who Are These For?
The Caddy eHybrid is aimed at businesses that want a cleaner van without switching to a full EV. With enough electric range for most short trips and no compromise on load space, it’s a decent step toward cutting emissions.
The Multivan eHybrid, meanwhile, is a rare thing – a plug-in hybrid people carrier that can genuinely fit a large family or work crew in comfort. If you need seven seats, a proper boot, and want to reduce your fuel use, it’s one of the few options around.
You can order both the models now from a Volkswagen dealer near you.
