Maxus vs BYD eT3 Singapore: Which EV Van Costs Less

Who Should Read This Comparison

This guide is written for Singapore businesses comparing electric vans for delivery operations, service fleets or mixed commercial use. Whether you operate an e-commerce logistics company, F&B delivery service, medical supply distribution or general contracting business, choosing the right electric van Singapore can significantly impact your bottom line over five years.

We focus on the practical questions fleet managers and business owners actually ask: What are the real operating costs? How far can these electric delivery vans travel in Singapore conditions? Which model delivers better value for different business applications? How do CVES rebates work in 2026?

This analysis uses Singapore-specific data from ABLINK (authorised commercial EV dealer), ST Engineering (official BYD commercial distributor), and Land Transport Authority (LTA) for CVES policy. Every critical claim links directly to verifiable sources so you can check the information yourself.

Verified Information Sources

To maintain transparency and trustworthiness, all data in this electric van comparison comes from official or authorised sources:

• ABLINK Singapore – Authorised dealer for commercial electric vans including Maxus:
  • Main site: https://ablink.sg
  • Electric van page: https://ablink.sg/pages/electric-van
  • EV commercial collection: https://ablink.sg/collections/ev-commercial
  • New vehicles inventory: https://ablink.sg/pages/new-vehicles
• ST Engineering – Official BYD commercial vehicle distributor in Singapore:
  • BYD eT3 specifications page: ST Engineering electric vans
  • BYD eT3 technical brochure (PDF): Official BYD eT3 brochure
• Land Transport Authority (LTA) – Singapore government transport authority:
  • CVES extension announcement: Official CVES news release
  • LTA main site: https://www.lta.gov.sg

Note: If any links become unavailable, visit the main websites and search for "electric van", "BYD eT3", "Maxus" or "CVES" to locate current information.

Quick Overview: Maxus e Deliver 3 vs BYD eT3

Both the Maxus e Deliver 3 and BYD eT3 are compact electric commercial vans designed specifically for urban delivery and light-duty fleet operations in Singapore. These electric vans share several fundamental characteristics that make them suitable for Singapore's commercial landscape:

• Fully electric drivetrains with zero tailpipe emissions
• Support for both AC (overnight) and DC (fast) charging
• Optimised for Singapore's stop-start city driving patterns
• Suitable for typical 100-150 km daily commercial routes
• CVES-eligible for government incentives
• Significantly lower operating costs compared to diesel vans

Positioning in Singapore Market

The Maxus e Deliver 3 is available through commercial vehicle specialists like ABLINK Singapore and is positioned as a value-driven, high-cargo-volume electric delivery van. It emphasises maximum cargo space per dollar spent, making it attractive for logistics companies, furniture movers, equipment rental firms and high-volume parcel delivery operations.

The BYD eT3 is distributed by ST Engineering and uses BYD's proprietary LFP Blade Battery technology. ST Engineering promotes the eT3 as an efficient, proven choice with an established track record in Singapore's commercial EV market, appealing to businesses that prioritise brand reputation, energy efficiency and comprehensive warranty coverage.

Detailed Specifications Comparison

Understanding the technical differences between these two electric vans Singapore helps you match vehicle capabilities to your specific business requirements.

Important: For the most current and locally-accurate specifications, always confirm exact configurations directly with ABLINK for Maxus and ST Engineering for BYD before making a purchase decision.

Pricing Structure and Government Incentives in Singapore

The total cost of acquiring a commercial electric van Singapore involves several components: vehicle body price, COE (Certificate of Entitlement), registration fees, and government incentives. Understanding each element helps you calculate the true upfront investment.

Current Pricing Information Sources

Maxus e Deliver 3 Pricing:
ABLINK Singapore provides current pricing for their commercial EV inventory on their dedicated pages. To check the latest Maxus e Deliver 3 body price and available promotions:

• ABLINK New Vehicles Page
• ABLINK EV Commercial Collection
• ABLINK Electric Van Information

BYD eT3 Pricing:
ST Engineering, as the official BYD commercial distributor, typically provides pricing through direct quotation. Contact their sales team via their official electric vans page:

• ST Engineering BYD eT3 Official Page

Certificate of Entitlement (COE) Category C

Both electric vans require COE Category C (goods vehicles and buses). COE premiums fluctuate with each bidding exercise, typically held twice per month. Recent Category C COE results and historical trends are published on the LTA Singapore website.

As of January 2026, Category C COE premiums have been in the range of S$70,000-80,000, but this can change significantly based on supply and demand. Always check the latest bidding results when calculating your budget.

Commercial Vehicle Emissions Scheme (CVES) 2026-2027

The Commercial Vehicle Emissions Scheme (CVES) is one of the most significant factors affecting the net cost of electric commercial vans in Singapore. This government incentive directly reduces upfront costs for qualifying clean vehicles.

Current CVES Structure (April 2025 - March 2027):

According to LTA's official announcement in December 2024, the CVES has been extended with updated incentive levels. For Band A light commercial vehicles (which includes qualifying electric vans), the incentive is S$15,000.

Official source: LTA CVES Extension News Release

Important Considerations for CVES:

• Verify which CVES band applies to the exact model and variant you are purchasing
• Confirm the incentive amount at time of purchase with your dealer
• Be aware that some marketing materials may reference earlier CVES periods with different incentive amounts
• Ask your dealer to include CVES application assistance in your quotation
• The scheme is currently valid until 31 March 2027 but may be extended or modified

Total Upfront Cost Structure

Your total upfront investment calculation should include:

1. Vehicle body price (from ABLINK or ST Engineering)
2. COE Category C premium (check latest LTA results)
3. Registration fee (typically S$220)
4. Less: CVES incentive (S$15,000 for Band A)
5. Insurance (get quotes from commercial insurers)
6. Road tax (annual, based on vehicle specifications)

Request complete quotations from both dealers that break down all these components so you can make an accurate like-for-like comparison.

Real-World Operating Costs for Singapore Fleets

Understanding the day-to-day running costs of electric vans Singapore is crucial for calculating total cost of ownership. Unlike diesel vans, electric delivery vans have dramatically different cost structures that favour long-term savings.

Electricity Costs: Maxus vs BYD vs Diesel

Based on typical Singapore commercial operations (approximately 870 km per month, or about 200 km per week):

Monthly Electricity Cost Breakdown

Maxus e Deliver 3:

• Energy consumption: ~23.6 kWh per 100 km
• Monthly distance: 870 km
• Monthly electricity needed: 870 ÷ 100 × 23.6 = 205 kWh
• Cost at S$0.66/kWh (AC charging): 205 × S$0.66 = S$135 per month
• Annual electricity: S$1,620
• Cost per kilometre: S$0.16/km

BYD eT3:

• Energy consumption: ~17.5 kWh per 100 km (more efficient)
• Monthly distance: 870 km
• Monthly electricity needed: 870 ÷ 100 × 17.5 = 152 kWh
• Cost at S$0.66/kWh (AC charging): 152 × S$0.66 = S$100 per month
• Annual electricity: S$1,200
• Cost per kilometre: S$0.12/km

Equivalent Diesel Van (for comparison):

• Fuel consumption: ~12 litres per 100 km (typical small commercial van)
• Monthly distance: 870 km
• Monthly fuel needed: 870 ÷ 100 × 12 = 104 litres
• Cost at S$2.20/litre (diesel): 104 × S$2.20 = S$229 per month
• Annual fuel: S$2,748
• Cost per kilometre: S$0.26/km

Key Takeaway: Electric vans cost 40-50% less to fuel than diesel equivalents. The BYD eT3 is approximately 26% more energy-efficient than the Maxus e Deliver 3, saving an additional S$35 per month in electricity costs.

Charging Strategy for Lowest Costs

To minimise electricity expenses:

• Primary strategy: Use AC charging (7 kW) overnight at your depot or private parking (S$0.66/kWh typical commercial rate)
• Backup strategy: Reserve DC fast charging for unusual high-mileage days or routing inefficiencies (S$0.74/kWh at public chargers)
• Avoid: Frequent public DC charging which adds 12% to your electricity costs

Insurance Costs

Commercial vehicle insurance for electric vans Singapore typically ranges:

• Maxus e Deliver 3: Approximately S$2,200-2,400 per year (lower vehicle value)
• BYD eT3: Approximately S$2,600-2,800 per year (premium brand positioning)

Exact premiums depend on driver experience, claims history, coverage level and insurer. Request quotations from multiple commercial insurers for accurate figures.

Maintenance and Servicing

Electric commercial vans have dramatically lower maintenance costs than diesel alternatives:

EV Maintenance Advantages:

• No engine oil changes (saves ~S$200-300 annually)
• No timing belts or transmission servicing
• No exhaust system maintenance
• Regenerative braking reduces brake pad wear by 50-70%
• Fewer fluids and filters to replace
• Fewer moving parts mean fewer breakdown risks

Typical EV Maintenance (Annual):

• Tyre rotation and replacement: S$150-200
• Brake inspection (minimal wear due to regen): S$50-80
• Cabin filter and coolant check: S$80-100
• General safety inspection: S$50-80
• Total annual maintenance: S$330-460 per van

Over five years, expect approximately S$1,650-2,300 in maintenance costs for either electric van—about 60-70% lower than equivalent diesel van maintenance.

Road Tax

Electric commercial vehicles in Singapore enjoy reduced road tax compared to diesel. Road tax for both vans is approximately S$372 per year, totalling S$1,860 over five years.

Five-Year Total Cost of Ownership Analysis

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) combines all upfront and operating costs over a typical business vehicle lifecycle. For Singapore commercial fleets, five years is a standard planning horizon.

TCO Components Explained

A comprehensive five-year TCO calculation for commercial electric vans Singapore includes:

1. Capital costs: Body price + COE + registration fees
2. Government incentives: CVES rebate (reduces net capital)
3. Energy costs: Electricity consumption over 52,000 km (5 years × 10,400 km/year)
4. Insurance: Commercial comprehensive coverage for five years
5. Maintenance: Scheduled servicing, tyres, brake components
6. Road tax: Annual tax for five years

Making Your Own TCO Calculation

Because exact prices vary by dealer promotion, COE timing and your specific insurance profile, it's best to build your own TCO model:

1. Request detailed quotations from ABLINK and ST Engineering
2. Add current COE Category C premium (check LTA for latest results)
3. Subtract CVES incentive (S$15,000 for Band A models)
4. Calculate electricity costs using your actual estimated monthly distance
5. Get insurance quotes from 2-3 commercial insurers
6. Add maintenance estimate (S$1,650-2,300 over five years)
7. Add road tax (S$1,860 over five years)

Key TCO Factors That Differ Between Models

Where Maxus e Deliver 3 May Cost Less:

• Typically lower body price (check current ABLINK pricing)
• Lower insurance premiums due to vehicle value
• More cargo space per dollar invested

Where BYD eT3 Saves Money:

• 26% better energy efficiency = ~S$2,100 saved over five years in electricity
• Potentially lower maintenance due to proprietary Blade Battery longevity
• Extended warranty coverage may reduce out-of-warranty repair risks

Important: The vehicle with the lowest TCO for you depends on your specific usage pattern, the prices you're quoted at the time of purchase, and whether cargo volume or energy efficiency matters more to your operations.

Singapore Use Cases: Which Van Suits Your Business

Most Singapore commercial fleets operate relatively short daily routes—typically 100-150 km per day—focused on urban delivery, service calls and short-haul logistics. Both electric vans provide adequate range for these patterns when charged overnight.

When the Maxus e Deliver 3 Makes Most Sense

The Maxus e Deliver 3 is the stronger choice for businesses that need to maximise cargo volume and payload while keeping upfront costs under control.

Ideal business applications:

• E-commerce logistics: High parcel volumes requiring maximum space per trip
• Furniture delivery: Bulky items that need the extra cubic metres
• Equipment rental: Tools, ladders, machinery requiring 4.8 m³ capacity
• F&B distribution: Mixed loads of beverages, dry goods and packaging
• General contractors: Construction materials, supplies and equipment
• Moving services: Residential or office relocation requiring maximum volume

Why choose Maxus through ABLINK:

• ABLINK specialises in commercial vehicles and understands fleet buyer needs
• Can discuss body configurations, racking and customisation options
• Bundled approach for vehicle + financing + COE simplifies procurement
• Established service network for commercial EV maintenance

Contact: ABLINK Electric Van Page

When the BYD eT3 Is a Better Fit

The BYD eT3 suits fleets that value energy efficiency, compact dimensions, established brand reputation and long warranty coverage.

Ideal business applications:

• Medical supplies: Pharmaceuticals, equipment requiring reliable cold-chain support
• Document courier: Light parcels where volume is less critical than efficiency
• Service industries: Plumbers, electricians, technicians with tool kits and parts
• Catering services: Prepared food delivery in compact urban areas
• Retail restocking: Store-to-store transfers in dense city centres
• Light parcel delivery: Operations prioritising energy cost minimisation

Why choose BYD through ST Engineering:

• ST Engineering is a trusted name in Singapore's transport infrastructure
• BYD has an established track record as a leading EV manufacturer globally
• Blade Battery technology offers enhanced thermal stability
• More compact exterior dimensions for tight urban environments
• Strong warranty coverage for peace of mind

Contact: ST Engineering BYD eT3 Page

Range Considerations for Singapore Operations

Both vans exceed typical Singapore commercial daily distances comfortably:

• Typical route: 100-150 km/day = covered with 30-50% battery remaining
• Extended route: 180-220 km/day = manageable with mid-day DC top-up if needed
• Maxus real-world: 200-220 km provides adequate margin
• BYD real-world: 230-250 km offers extra safety buffer

Neither vehicle creates "range anxiety" for standard Singapore operations. Overnight AC charging at your depot ensures you start each day with a full battery.

Charging Infrastructure and Daily Operations

Understanding charging requirements and options is essential for smooth fleet operations with electric commercial vans Singapore.

Charging Specifications

Maxus e Deliver 3:

• AC charging (7 kW): 6-8 hours to full charge
• DC fast charging: ~45 minutes to 80% capacity
• Practical overnight charging at depot provides full daily range

BYD eT3:

• AC charging (7 kW): 6.8 hours to full charge (confirmed in ST Engineering brochure)
• DC fast charging: About 1 hour to 100% capacity
• Efficient charging profile optimised for commercial use

Optimal Charging Strategy for Singapore Fleets

Primary approach (lowest cost):

1. Install 7 kW AC charger at your depot or parking location
2. Charge overnight after final deliveries (takes 6-8 hours)
3. Start each morning with 100% charge
4. Cost: S$0.66/kWh (typical commercial/residential AC rate)

Backup approach (for extended-range days):

1. Mid-day DC fast charging at public stations if needed
2. 45-60 minute top-up during lunch break
3. Cost: S$0.74/kWh (public DC fast charging rate)
4. Useful for unexpectedly long routes or routing inefficiencies

Singapore Charging Infrastructure

Singapore has a growing public charging network suitable for commercial operations:

• DC fast chargers at HDB carparks, shopping centres, industrial estates
• AC chargers increasingly available at commercial premises
• ChargeWhere app helps locate nearest available chargers
• Government commitment to expand charging infrastructure through 2030

However, for most commercial electric van operations, relying primarily on private depot charging is the most cost-effective and convenient approach.

Frequently Asked Questions: Electric Vans Singapore

How much does it cost to charge an electric van in Singapore?

For typical commercial operations covering about 870 km per month:

• Maxus e Deliver 3: Approximately S$135 per month (S$1,620 annually) using AC charging
• BYD eT3: Approximately S$100 per month (S$1,200 annually) using AC charging
• Equivalent diesel van: Approximately S$229 per month (S$2,748 annually)

Electric vans cost 40-50% less to "fuel" than diesel equivalents. AC charging at your depot (S$0.66/kWh) is significantly cheaper than public DC charging (S$0.74/kWh), so maximise overnight charging for lowest costs.

Is 200-280 km range enough for Singapore delivery operations?

Yes, more than sufficient. Industry data shows Singapore commercial operations typically cover 100-150 km per day. Both electric vans provide comfortable safety margins:

• Maxus e Deliver 3: 200-220 km real-world range covers standard routes with 30-50% battery remaining
• BYD eT3: 230-250 km real-world range offers even greater buffer for extended days

With overnight charging at your depot, you start each day with 100% charge. Even 180-220 km extended routes are manageable with optional mid-day DC top-ups.

Which electric van has lower running costs in Singapore?

The BYD eT3 has lower electricity costs due to superior energy efficiency (~26% better than Maxus), saving approximately S$420 annually and S$2,100 over five years. However, the Maxus e Deliver 3 may have lower insurance premiums due to vehicle value. Maintenance costs are similar for both EVs—about 60-70% lower than diesel vans.

Total running cost advantage depends on your electricity usage, insurance profile and how much you value cargo volume versus efficiency.

Can I get government rebates for electric commercial vans?

Yes. Under the Commercial Vehicle Emissions Scheme (CVES), qualifying electric vans in Band A receive an S$15,000 incentive for the current period (April 2025 to March 2027).

Both the Maxus e Deliver 3 and BYD eT3 qualify for CVES Band A incentives. Your dealer (ABLINK for Maxus, ST Engineering for BYD) should assist with the CVES application process as part of your purchase.

Official source: LTA CVES Extension Announcement

Where can I buy these electric vans in Singapore?

Maxus e Deliver 3:

• Authorised dealer: ABLINK Singapore
• Website: https://ablink.sg
• Electric van info: ABLINK Electric Van Page
• Services: Quotations, test drives, CVES assistance, body customisation, financing packages

BYD eT3:

• Official distributor: ST Engineering
• Electric vans page: ST Engineering BYD eT3
• Technical brochure: Official BYD eT3 PDF
• Services: Quotations, test drives, warranty information, servicing packages

How does maintenance cost compare between electric and diesel vans?

Electric vans have dramatically lower maintenance costs:

Electric van advantages:

• No engine oil changes (saves S$200-300 annually)
• No timing belts, transmission service or exhaust maintenance
• Regenerative braking reduces brake pad wear by 50-70%
• Fewer fluids, filters and moving parts

Typical costs over five years:

• Electric van (Maxus or BYD): S$1,650-2,300
• Equivalent diesel van: S$5,000-8,000
• Savings: 60-70% reduction in maintenance expenses

What warranty coverage do these electric vans include?

Maxus e Deliver 3:

• Battery warranty: 8 years coverage
• Vehicle warranty: Standard commercial vehicle coverage
• Confirm exact terms with ABLINK at time of purchase

BYD eT3:

• Battery warranty: 8 years with extended mileage coverage (details vary by market)
• Vehicle warranty: Comprehensive coverage included
• Some packages include free servicing
• Confirm current Singapore warranty structure with ST Engineering

For high-mileage operations (50,000+ km annually) or fleets planning to keep vehicles beyond five years, warranty coverage becomes particularly important. Always request written warranty documentation before purchase.

Can I install custom racking or refrigeration in these vans?

Yes, both electric vans accommodate aftermarket modifications including:

• Internal shelving and racking systems
• Roof racks for ladders or long items
• Partition walls between cargo and driver areas
• Refrigeration units for temperature-controlled delivery
• Hydraulic tail lifts for heavy cargo

Important: Modifications must not exceed gross vehicle weight limits or interfere with electrical systems. Discuss customisation requirements with your dealer (ABLINK or ST Engineering) before purchase to ensure compatibility and avoid warranty issues. Professional installation is strongly recommended.

How to Make a Trusted, Low-Risk Decision

Because both the Maxus e Deliver 3 and BYD eT3 are electric commercial vans backed by serious organisations in Singapore, the "best" choice is the one that matches your real-world business requirements and uses transparent, verifiable pricing.

Recommended Decision Process

1. Define your requirements:
   • Average daily distance and typical routes
   • Cargo volume needs (m³) and weight (kg)
   • Number of vehicles needed (fleet discount opportunities)
   • Budget constraints and financing requirements
   • Importance of brand reputation vs. cost savings
2. Request written quotations:
   • ABLINK for Maxus e Deliver 3: Contact ABLINK
     • Include: Body price, COE estimate, CVES treatment, delivery timeline, after-sales support
   • ST Engineering for BYD eT3: Contact ST Engineering
     • Include: Current pricing, CVES band confirmation, warranty details, servicing package
3. Verify CVES eligibility:
   • Confirm current incentive amount (S$15,000 for Band A as of January 2026)
   • Ask dealer to handle CVES application as part of purchase process
   • Check latest policy at LTA CVES page
4. Calculate your specific TCO:
   • Use quotations + current COE + your estimated annual km
   • Get insurance quotes from 2-3 commercial insurers
   • Factor in electricity costs based on your actual usage
   • Include depot charging installation costs if needed
5. Arrange test drives:
   • Evaluate driving comfort, visibility and handling
   • Test loading procedures with actual cargo
   • Assess turning radius for your typical delivery areas
   • Check driver feedback if multiple operators will use the van
6. Review warranty and service terms:
   • Understand what's covered and for how long
   • Identify nearest authorised service centres
   • Clarify parts availability and typical repair turnaround times
   • Ask about loaner vehicle availability during servicing

Decision Framework

Choose Maxus e Deliver 3 if you prioritise:

• Maximum cargo volume (4.8 m³) and payload (905 kg)
• Lowest possible cost per cubic metre of cargo space
• Straightforward, value-oriented pricing
• Dealing with a commercial vehicle specialist (ABLINK)
• Applications: High-volume delivery, furniture, equipment, bulk cargo

Choose BYD eT3 if you prioritise:

• Energy efficiency and lowest electricity costs per kilometre
• Established global EV brand with proven track record
• Compact dimensions for dense urban environments
• BYD Blade Battery technology and thermal stability
• ST Engineering's reputation and service network
• Applications: Medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, light parcels, compact routes

Ready to Switch to Electric? Get Your Quotation

The transition to electric commercial vans Singapore offers significant long-term cost savings, environmental benefits and operational advantages. Both the Maxus e Deliver 3 and BYD eT3 represent viable options backed by reputable organisations.

Next Steps

For Maxus e Deliver 3:

• Visit ABLINK's electric van information page: ABLINK Electric Van
• Browse their commercial EV collection: EV Commercial Collection
• Check new vehicle inventory: New Vehicles
• Request: Detailed quotation, test drive booking, CVES assistance, customisation options

For BYD eT3:

• Visit ST Engineering's BYD eT3 page: ST Engineering Electric Vans
• Download technical specifications: BYD eT3 Brochure PDF
• Request: Official pricing, warranty documentation, servicing package details, fleet discounts

For CVES and COE information:

• Check latest CVES policy: LTA CVES Announcement
• Monitor COE results: LTA Singapore

Pro tip: Request quotations from both dealers and compare them side-by-side, accounting for your specific annual mileage, insurance costs and cargo requirements. The best value van for your business may differ from generic recommendations based on your unique operational profile.

Important Disclaimers and Final Notes

This article provides general information for Singapore businesses evaluating electric commercial vans and does not constitute financial, legal or purchasing advice. All brand names, product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Price and specification disclaimer: Vehicle prices, COE premiums, CVES incentives and specifications can change without notice. While this article uses information verified from official sources as of January 2026, always confirm current details directly with authorised dealers before making purchase decisions.

Official information sources:

• ABLINK Singapore (Maxus): https://ablink.sg
• ST Engineering (BYD): ST Engineering electric vans
• Land Transport Authority: https://www.lta.gov.sg

Warranty and service: Only ABLINK (for Maxus) and ST Engineering (for BYD) can provide definitive, binding information about warranties, servicing, parts availability and after-sales support for their respective products in Singapore.

Insurance and financing: Contact licensed insurance brokers and financial institutions for personalised quotations based on your business profile, credit history and specific requirements.

Independent comparison: This article is an independent information resource and is not sponsored by, affiliated with, or endorsed by ABLINK, ST Engineering, BYD, Maxus or any other commercial entity mentioned herein.