In the commercial vehicle market, plug-in hybrids are beginning to take off — and it’s easy to understand why. Many businesses want to lower emissions but aren’t yet ready to go fully electric. Plug-in hybrids fill that gap, offering electric power for shorter trips while keeping a petrol engine for longer journeys. With more clean air zones being introduced and growing pressure to reduce fleet emissions, these vans are becoming a smart, workable choice.
Volkswagen is the latest to join in, launching new plug-in hybrid editions of the Caddy and the Multivan.
Caddy eHybrid: Lower Emissions, Same Practicality
The new Caddy eHybrid shares its setup with the Ford Transit Connect (since they use the same platform). It combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 19.7kWh battery and electric motor, producing 150PS and 320Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
According to official WLTP figures, it can travel up to 74 miles on pure electric power. In real-world use — especially when loaded — that number will be lower, but it still works well for urban deliveries or short commutes. Emissions are rated at just 11g/km, and fuel economy is quoted at nearly 600mpg (more of a tax figure than a real-life one).
The best part? The hybrid system doesn’t cut into cargo space. Load capacity remains up to 3.7 cubic metres, and payloads reach 740kg depending on the model. With the battery hidden under the floor, the rear load area is fully usable.
The eHybrid is offered in both standard and long-wheelbase (Maxi) versions, with three trims: Commerce, Commerce Plus, and Commerce Pro. Prices start from £28,435 excluding VAT.
Multivan eHybrid 4Motion: A Hybrid With Space for Seven
The Multivan eHybrid 4Motion takes the same hybrid system but adds all-wheel drive — petrol engine at the front, electric motor at the rear.
It delivers a claimed 57 miles of electric-only range, with 19g/km emissions and around 350mpg fuel economy (again, mostly for tax purposes rather than real-world driving).
Inside, flexibility is retained: seating for seven plus a huge boot. You get 469 litres with all seats in place, or 1,844 litres with the third row removed in the long version. Trim choices are Life and Style, available in both standard and long wheelbases.
Starting price is £45,465 excluding VAT, which makes it cheaper than its main competitor, the Ford Tourneo Custom PHEV.
Who Are They For?
The Caddy eHybrid suits businesses looking for a lower-emission van without switching to a full EV. With its usable electric range and unchanged load space, it’s a practical step toward greener transport.
The Multivan eHybrid, on the other hand, stands out as one of the few plug-in hybrid people carriers. It offers seven seats, plenty of boot space, and reduced fuel use — making it ideal for large families or work crews.
Both models are available to order now through Volkswagen dealers.
