With the electrical giant in Krško, we found out

Toyota has introduced its largest electric delivery van, the Proace Max Electric, to the Slovenian market, marking a significant step in the expansion of electric commercial vehicles. The vehicle, developed in collaboration with the Stellantis group, offers a spacious cargo area and robust performance suitable for urban and regional deliveries. With a cargo volume of 13 cubic meters and a payload capacity of up to 0.5 tons, the Proace Max Electric is designed to meet the demands of businesses requiring large storage space and efficient transport solutions. The Proace Max Electric features an electric motor with a power output of 205 kW and a torque of 410 Nm, ensuring reliable responsiveness. Its battery, with a capacity of 110 kWh, provides a range of approximately 400 kilometers according to the WLTP standard. For city deliveries, the range can be around 300 kilometers, while highway driving with full load reduces this to about 250 kilometers. The vehicle's range is influenced by weather conditions and other environmental factors, though practical testing from Ljubljana to Krško demonstrated that it could achieve over 20% battery remaining after such a journey. Charging capabilities have been improved significantly, allowing the vehicle to charge from 0 to 80% in about 55 minutes using fast DC chargers with up to 150 kW power. A standard three-phase 11 kW charger is included for overnight charging. In practice, users have reported charging at 100 kW, which is still within acceptable limits. This makes the Proace Max Electric a viable option for daily operations, especially in urban environments where frequent stops and starts are common. The electric drivetrain performs well under everyday conditions, offering immediate torque availability and smooth operation. The vehicle includes three driving modes, eco, normal, and power, that allow drivers to adjust between performance and range. Additionally, a four-stage regenerative braking system enhances efficiency, enabling much of the journey to be handled with minimal input, even in stop-and-go traffic. The vehicle also features quiet operation and reduced vibration, contributing to driver comfort. Despite these advantages, the Proace Max Electric faces some limitations due to its heavy battery pack. As a result, the maximum allowable mass of the vehicle restricts the amount of cargo it can carry, limiting it primarily to delivery services and tradespeople who require ample space but lighter loads. The design also reflects the older platform used by the Proace series, which affects handling and precision compared to newer competitors. However, the cabin has been updated to offer better sound insulation, comfortable ride quality, and ease of use, making it more appealing for professional drivers. On the Slovenian market, the Proace Max Electric is available in two body lengths and heights, including a chassis version for custom modifications. The smaller L3H2 variant tested measures 2.9 meters in length and 2.5 meters in height, with a cargo volume of 13 cubic meters. While the size is substantial, the weight limitation means it is best suited for applications where the cargo is relatively light but requires extensive storage space. This aligns with the target audience of businesses engaged in local and regional transportation, service activities, and trades requiring mobility and efficiency.