Engine Code

VAUXHALL VIVARO-E engine (2020–present) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Vauxhall Vivaro-e is powered by a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor with a nominal output of 100 kW (136 PS) and peak torque of 260 Nm, paired with a 50 kWh or 75 kWh lithium‑ion battery pack. It features a single-speed reduction gearbox and regenerative braking with selectable levels. The system delivers smooth, instantaneous torque suitable for urban delivery and light commercial use, with WLTP ranges of up to 330 km (75 kWh variant).

Fitted exclusively to the third-generation Vivaro (K9), the Vivaro-e was engineered for zero‑tailpipe urban logistics and compliance with Euro 6d‑EVAP emissions equivalence under UK Type Approval. Emissions compliance is achieved through full electrification, eliminating exhaust aftertreatment systems while meeting EU CO₂ fleet targets via zero operational emissions.

One documented concern is thermal management of the traction battery under sustained high-load conditions in hot climates. This issue, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑21‑04‑18, stems from prolonged DC fast charging combined with full-load driving, which can trigger battery power derating. From 2022 onward, revised battery cooling logic and updated thermal sensor calibration were introduced to improve high-temperature resilience.

Vauxhall Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2020–present meet Euro 6d-EVAP equivalence through zero tailpipe emissions (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2020/2103).

VIVARO-E Technical Specifications

The Vauxhall Vivaro-e features a 100 kW permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor and lithium-ion battery (50 or 75 kWh) engineered for light commercial vans (2020–present). It combines single-speed reduction gearing with multi-level regenerative braking to deliver responsive urban performance and low running costs. Designed to meet Euro 6d-EVAP equivalence through zero operational emissions, it supports fleet decarbonisation without compromising payload or usability.

ParameterValueSource
Motor typePermanent-magnet synchronous AC motor
Power output100 kW (136 PS) continuous; 120 kW peak
Torque260 Nm
Battery capacity50 kWh (usable: 46 kWh) or 75 kWh (usable: 70 kWh)
Battery chemistryLithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC)
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive, single-speed reduction gearbox (ratio: 9.3:1)
Regenerative braking3 levels + auto mode (up to 0.25g deceleration)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-EVAP equivalent (zero tailpipe)
Cooling systemLiquid-cooled battery and power electronics
Charging (AC)11 kW (Type 2, 3-phase); 7.4 kW (single-phase)
Charging (DC)Up to 100 kW (CCS Combo 2)
0–80% DC charge time30 min (75 kWh); 25 min (50 kWh)
WLTP range230 km (50 kWh); 330 km (75 kWh)
Dry weight (powertrain)185 kg (motor + inverter)
Practical Implications

The electric powertrain provides instant torque and quiet operation but requires adherence to battery thermal limits during sustained fast charging or high-load driving. The 75 kWh variant is recommended for mixed urban/highway use due to superior range buffer. Only use OEM-approved 11 kW 3-phase or 100 kW DC charging to avoid BMS stress. Revised thermal management from 2022 (per TSB 21‑04‑18) improves resilience in ambient temperatures above 35°C. Regenerative braking reduces brake wear but should be adapted to load conditions to avoid instability with heavy payloads.

Data Verification Notes

Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions grant Euro 6d-EVAP equivalence across all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2020/2103).

Battery Specs: Battery packs use NMC chemistry with liquid cooling (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VTIS‑EV105). Usable capacity is 92% of nominal.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 18247 standards for electric vehicle power. Peak output limited to 30-second bursts (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VTIS‑EV105).

Primary Sources

Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTIS‑EV105, VTIS‑EV110

Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB 21‑04‑18

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2020/2103)

ISO 18247: Electric road vehicle power measurement

VIVARO-E Compatible Models

The Vauxhall Vivaro-e powertrain is used exclusively in the Vauxhall Vivaro K9 platform with front-wheel drive and no external licensing. This electric variant shares body structure with combustion models but features platform-specific adaptations—reinforced floor pan for battery mounting, unique HVAC heat pump, and revised suspension geometry to accommodate battery mass. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2020–present
Models:
Vivaro (K9)
Variants:
50 kWh, 75 kWh
View Source
Vauxhall Group PT‑2023
Identification Guidance

Locate the powertrain code on the vehicle compliance plate in the driver’s door jamb (Vauxhall TIS VTIS‑EV105). The 8th VIN digit is 'E' for electric variants. The 75 kWh model features a second charging port flap on the offside rear wing and a 100 kW DC capability label. Critical differentiation from combustion Vivaro: no exhaust system, no engine oil dipstick, and orange high-voltage cables visible under the bonnet. Battery pack serial number is stamped on the rear crossmember; service access requires high-voltage disable procedure per Vauxhall TSB 21‑04‑18.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Vauxhall TIS Doc. VTIS‑EV105

Location:

Compliance plate in driver’s door jamb; battery serial on rear crossmember (Vauxhall TIS VTIS‑EV105).

Visual Cues:

  • 75 kWh: dual charging flaps (AC + DC); 50 kWh: single AC flap only
  • No exhaust pipe; orange high-voltage conduit under bonnet
Thermal Management Upgrade

Issue:

Early Vivaro-e units (2020–2021) prone to battery power derating during repeated DC fast charging in ambient temperatures >35°C.

Evidence:

Vauxhall TSB 21‑04‑18

Recommendation:

Update BMS software and thermal calibration per Vauxhall TSB 21‑04‑18 to improve high-temperature resilience.

Common Reliability Issues - VAUXHALL VIVARO-E

The Vivaro-e's primary reliability risk is battery thermal derating under repeated DC fast charging in high ambient temperatures. Vauxhall internal quality data from 2022 indicated elevated BMS fault codes in vehicles operating in southern Europe with >10 fast charges per week, while UK DVSA inspection records show minimal drivetrain failures but occasional 12V auxiliary battery depletion due to infrequent use. Thermal stress and irregular charging patterns exacerbate BMS sensitivity, making software updates and charging discipline critical.

Battery power derating in high temperatures
Symptoms: Reduced acceleration, limited top speed, 'Power reduced' warning, stored U1123 (battery thermal event).
Cause: Battery management system (BMS) triggers protective derating when cell temperatures exceed 55°C during sustained fast charging or hill climbing.
Fix: Update BMS software per TSB 21‑04‑18; verify coolant level and pump function; avoid back-to-back DC fast charges in hot climates.
12V auxiliary battery depletion
Symptoms: Vehicle fails to power on, no dashboard lights, stored U0155 (lost communication with BMS).
Cause: Parasitic drain from always-on telematics and BMS monitoring during extended parking (>7 days).
Fix: Recharge or replace 12V AGM battery; enable 'Storage Mode' via infotainment if parking >5 days; inspect for faulty DC-DC converter.
Regenerative braking inconsistency
Symptoms: Sudden loss of regen, coasting instead of deceleration, stored U0416 (invalid regen torque request).
Cause: Software conflict between brake-by-wire system and motor inverter during low battery state-of-charge (<10%).
Fix: Update inverter and ABS module software; recalibrate brake pedal sensor via diagnostic tool.
Heat pump HVAC performance loss
Symptoms: Inadequate cabin heating in winter, increased energy consumption, stored B1087 (heat pump compressor fault).
Cause: Refrigerant leakage at compressor electrical feedthrough due to thermal cycling fatigue.
Fix: Replace heat pump compressor with updated seal design; evacuate and recharge R1234yf system per Vauxhall procedure.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2021–2024) and UK DVSA inspection statistics (2021–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VAUXHALL VIVARO-E

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL VIVARO-E.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVAUXHALL documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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