Renault’s latest electric van, the 3.5-tonne Master Z.E., will offer 75 miles (120km) of real-world range, as well as new fleet-specific services.
Renault says the Master Z.E.’s range makes it ideal for last-mile deliveries, with a full charge taking around six-hours to complete via its type-2 charge socket. However, range is significantly lower than the 124 miles (200km) NEDC figure.
Renault is also launching Renault Easy Connect for Fleet – an ecosystem of connected services including fleet management and cost reduction via connectivity and partnerships with telematics service providers like Fleetmatics and TomTom Telematics amongst many others. The system works using a “Renault Communication Adapter” integrated into the vehicle’s electronics and will be available on the entire range of Renault vehicles in Europe by mid-2018.
In addition, the vans will be able to make use of the Renault Pro+ network of fully trained and equipped teams plus an approved list of LCV converters to meet specific business needs.
Six versions of the van will be available; three lengths and two heights. The four van versions feature an 8–13m3 load space and a payload of 975kg to 1,128kg. The two platform cab versions have a transport capacity of up to 22m3 and feature payloads of 1,377kg (L2H1) and 1,355kg (L3H1). The load sill is said to be amongst the lowest in the segment at 55.7cm, while the doors open up to 270 degrees, for easier loading and unloading.
The Master Z.E. is powered by a 75bhp electric motor, unlike the updated ZOE that now sports a 107bhp motor. Its range is supplied by a 33kWh LG-Chem produced lithium-ion battery, the same as that fitted to the Kangoo Z.E.33.
Top speed is 62mph (100km/h), while Renault say range can be extended by switching to an Eco mode that also reduces performance to 50mph (80km/h).
While UK pricing is yet to be announced, pricing in France excluding tax, battery lease and government subsidy starts from €48,200 (£42,667) for the L1H1 version and from €46,700 (£41,339) for the L2 platform cab version. However, in the UK the van should qualify for the PIVG (plug-in van grant of 20% up to a maximum of £8,000) putting the starting price at around £33,000.
Battery lease pre-tax is available from €74 (£65) per month for an annual distance travelled of 7,500km, plus €0.04 (3.5 pence) per additional kilometre (equivalent to €8 (£7) per month per additional 2,500km covered.
