Electric van duo looks set to arrive in 2023 and 2024 respectively as French brand’s Australian EV assault builds steam
The new Renault Kangoo Van E-Tech and its bigger brother, the Renault Master Van E-Tech Electric, have both been given the green light for Australian release, but the final line-ups, specification details and launch timing are yet to be confirmed.
However, carsales understands the battery-electric Kangoo is scheduled to arrive Down Under in the first quarter of 2023, while the zero-emissions Master will likely arrive some 12-18 months later.
As part of the lauded new-generation Renault compact delivery van range, the Kangoo E-Tech will replace the familiar Kangoo ZE and simultaneously usher in a heap of upgrades most punters would expect of an all-new van.
For starters, the 44kW/220Nm electric motor and 33kWh lithium-ion battery combination have been ditched in favour of a gruntier 90kW/245Nm unit and a more distance-friendly (up to 300km) 45kWh battery.
Those who fancy a small electric van may be interested to note the Kangoo E-Tech offers up to 4.9 cubic metres of cargo space and a payload of up to 800kg.
Australian roads have never been graced by an electric Master and the big Master E-Tech Electric commercial van will face with some stiff competition in the form of the upcoming Ford E-Transit.
The French offering will wade into battle with a 52kWh battery pack and a 57kW/225Nm electric motor, yielding a WLTP driving range of up to 200km on a single charge.
Renault Master E-Tech Electric
The Master E-Tech Electric can swallow up to 15 cubic metres of cargo with a maximum payload of 1425kg.
It remains to be seen if the FCEV version of the Master will also get an Aussie introduction, although we have to admit we’re sceptical on account of Australia’s lacklustre hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.
Perhaps transport fleets will have better luck than private buyers in years to come.
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Keyword: Renault Kangoo E-Tech and Master E-Tech confirmed for Oz