As the logistics industry faces mounting pressure to cut emissions and improve sustainability, the transformation of last-mile delivery fleets has become inevitable. Electric vehicles (EVs) are now taking centre stage, with a wide range of options available, from electric-assist pedal-powered cargo bikes to fully electric panel vans and more recently, coach-built platform cabs specifically designed for urban delivery environments.

Recognising the growing demand for more efficient and environmentally friendly commercial vehicles, Hatcher, a company with over 50 years of experience in commercial vehicle design and innovation, has developed a new lightweight solution: the Space Plus e-Van body, built for the Vauxhall Vivaro-e platform cab. Following this, Hatcher have been certified as a Stellantis Approved Converter, and as such the body is available on the Stellantis portal making it easily accessible for all approved Vauxhall Business Centres and fleet dealers. This forward-thinking design is also adaptable across various platform cabs within the Stellantis group, offering broad compatibility and market ap-peal.

Traditionally, coach-built cargo bodies for platform cabs are constructed using aluminium panels. While suitable for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, this method significantly increases the vehicle’s kerb weight, thereby reducing its payload and, in the case of electric drivetrains, negatively impacting range and overall efficiency.

In response to these limitations, Hatcher have drawn from their experience in fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) technology, gained through decades of manufacturing aerodynamic kits and sleeper cab conversions, to engineer a more efficient alternative. Through the use of carefully selected lightweight materials and advanced moulding techniques, the company has achieved a remarkable reduction in body weight; around 300kg lighter than standard panel vans. This reduction has tangible benefits: the payload capacity is a generous 1,350kg, and the overall cargo volume is a capacious 9.1m3. The load area spans 2,500mm in length, accommodating up to three standard EURO pallets on the deck. To further optimize us-ability and practicality, the spare wheel has been relocated to a secure position above the cab.

The Space Plus body is also designed with usability in mind. A full-height roller shutter door allows easy access, while the internal height of 1,900mm (6’3”) enables most operators to stand comfortably; an essential feature for efficient loading, unloading, and potential mobile workstation use. Additionally, optional fittings for shelving and racking are available, allowing businesses to tailor the vehicle’s interior to specific operational needs.

As cities tighten emissions regulations and businesses seek smarter, more sustainable delivery solutions, innovations like the Hatcher Space Plus e-Van body are poised to play a key role in the future of commercial transport. By reducing weight without compromising durability or capacity, Hatcher is not only addressing the practical challenges of electric vehicle adoption but also redefining what’s possible in last-mile logistics.

For more information see here: https://hatchercomp.co.uk/space-plus/