The Peugeot Rifter e-Rifter 50 kWh (136 hp) is an all-electric, five-seat minivan introduced as part of the Rifter’s facelift in March 2024. Positioned as a practical and versatile family vehicle, the e-Rifter represents Peugeot’s entry into the electric minivan segment, building upon the success of the conventionally powered Rifter L1. It shares its platform and core components with the Citroën ë-Berlingo and Opel/Vauxhall Combo-e Life, reflecting Stellantis’ strategy of component sharing across its brands. The 50 kWh battery pack provides a competitive range for daily commutes and family trips, making it a compelling option for those seeking a zero-emission people carrier.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Peugeot |
| Model | Rifter |
| Generation | Rifter L1 (facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | e-Rifter 50 kWh (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 132 km/h (82.02 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.8 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 50 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 328-340 km (203.81 – 211.27 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 19.1 kWh/100 km (30.74 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 110 |
| km/kWh | 5.2 |
| mi/kWh | 3.3 |
| Electric motor power | 136 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 136 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| System torque | 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1755-1939 kg (3869.11 – 4274.76 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2360 kg (5202.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421-605 kg (928.15 – 1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 775 l (27.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3000 l (105.94 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4405 mm (173.43 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1921 mm (75.63 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2107 mm (82.95 in.) |
| Height | 1818 mm (71.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1567 mm (61.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 894 mm (35.2 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 726 mm (28.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The e-Rifter utilizes a single electric motor, producing 136 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. This motor is a synchronous type, known for its efficiency and smooth power delivery. The motor is mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. Power is supplied by a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery pack located under the floor of the vehicle, contributing to a low center of gravity and improved handling. The single-speed automatic transmission provides seamless acceleration, typical of electric vehicles. The charging port location is not publicly available.
Driving Characteristics
The e-Rifter 50 kWh offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10.9 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The instant torque characteristic of electric motors provides brisk acceleration at lower speeds, making it easy to navigate urban environments. The single-speed transmission ensures smooth and linear power delivery. Compared to potential gasoline-powered Rifter variants, the e-Rifter prioritizes efficiency and quiet operation over outright performance. The regenerative braking system allows for one-pedal driving in certain conditions, further enhancing efficiency and convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The e-Rifter typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its position as a modern family vehicle. Standard features generally include air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels may add features like a larger touchscreen, navigation system, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery is typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Specific trim levels and available options vary by market.
Chassis & Braking
The e-Rifter utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The electric power steering offers light and precise steering feel. Tire sizes typically range from 215/65 R16 to 215/60 R17, depending on the trim level. The vehicle’s relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to improved stability and cornering ability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Peugeot Rifter e-Rifter has been generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient electric minivan. Its competitive range, spacious interior, and comfortable ride have been praised. Compared to other trims in the Rifter lineup, the e-Rifter offers a significantly different driving experience, prioritizing quietness, smoothness, and zero-emission operation. Fuel economy, expressed as energy consumption, is rated at 19.1 kWh/100 km (30.74 kWh/100 mi), translating to approximately 110 MPGe. While the initial purchase price is higher than that of gasoline-powered Rifter models, the lower running costs associated with electric vehicles can offset this difference over time.
Legacy
The e-Rifter represents Peugeot’s commitment to electrification and its response to the growing demand for sustainable transportation. The longevity of the 50 kWh battery pack and the electric motor remains to be fully assessed over the long term, but early indications suggest that electric powertrains are generally reliable. As the used car market expands to include more electric vehicles, the e-Rifter is likely to become a popular choice for families seeking a practical, affordable, and environmentally friendly minivan. Its position as a pioneer in the electric minivan segment will likely contribute to its enduring appeal.
