The number of companies looking to hire an electric van has increased sharply in the last few years. Renault was one of the very first to release a van option for those seeking to switch to electric. They are going to be increasing their electric van range quite considerably in the next few years.
Hire an Electric Van From Renault – They Have A Rich History
Renault is a legacy manufacturer who have certainly earned that title. One of the few car manufacturers who can say that they were founded in the 19th Century. Renault have been around almost as long as the car itself.
The history of Renault obviously includes the dark days of World War 1 and World War 2. Both of which the French were a central part. In the 1914-1918 conflict Renault switched to making ammunition and engines for planes. The items produced by Renault were of such excellent quality that Louis Renault was awarded the Legion of Honour in recognition of his company’s efforts.
Bravery and duty came to the fore in the 1939-1945 conflict as well. Overrun by the Nazis in 1940, the French saw some very dark days ahead of them. However, the bravery of many in standing up to their conquerors cannot be overstated. Louis Renault refused to build tanks for the Germans (having previously manufactured parts for allied tanks). Renault shut that part of the factory. They did not open again until after the war had finished.
Renault Vans – Where it all Began
Renault has a long and wonderful history. However, it wasn’t until the 1970’s that Renault really entered the world of vans. A big catalyst of this was Renault’s purchase of the truck and commercial vehicle manufacturer, Berliet, from fellow French company Peugeot Citroen in 1974.
There were a few Light Commercial Vehicles built at this time including the Estafette and the 12 Société. Renault were the only manufacturer in France producing commercial vehicles at this time. They therefore had a very successful corner of the French market to themselves.
Renault’s van credentials increased in 1979 after a 20% stake was made in American truck company Mack. This would later increase to 44.6% in 1983, setting a good base for further van development.
Renault Vans – The Modern Era
Renault vans can be seen on roads the length and breadth of the United Kingdom. Some of which you probably don’t even realise are Renault vans.
Possibly the best known of the Renault vans is the Renault Trafic. A staple of the commercial industry and with a reputation for toughness and reliability. The Renault Master is another Renault van that has an excellent reputation. It is also a van, along with the Kangoo, that Renault later adapted to their electric van range. More on this shortly.
One van that you are very likely to have seen, even if you are not too familiar with it, is the Dacia Duster. No, this is not an error. Dacia are owned by Renault and therefore belong in this esteemed list.
What About if I Want to Hire an Electric Van?
Of course, despite the rich history that Renault has with the dirty diesel vans, it is in history where they belong. Renault have embraced the electric revolution, firstly bringing out one of the earliest electric cars in the shape of the Renault Zoe, and secondly in bringing out one of the very first electric vans in the shape of the Renault Kangoo.
Renault’s electric van credentials are going to be increased in the next few years as more and more commercial vehicles become available. Let’s look at the current and near future offerings in more detail.
Want to Hire an Electric Van – What About a Renault Kangoo
The Renault Kangoo is a firm favourite of EVision Electric Vehicles customers. If you have previously decided to hire an electric van or thought to hire an electric van from us then this is possibly one you have looked at.
We are very proud of this wonderful and hard wearing van. With a range of 120 miles, this van is capable of getting you around the towns and cities for your work. Although not the best option for longer driving, the Renault Kangoo can more than hold its own in terms of no-nonsense performance on shorter journeys. This is a van that is well worth considering.
The Compact Electric Van – Renault Zoe Van E-Tech
This is a van that we have been lucky enough to see at several events. The first time you come across the Renault Zoe van it is a surreal experience. Most people are familiar with the fabulous Renault Zoe electric car, but not the same car converted into van form.
The Zoe is probably not the first thing you think of when thinking “I need to hire an electric van”, however, this little wonder can hold its own. Winner of the What Car? Conversion of the Year at the 2022 Van Awards. You still get the great performance of the Renault Zoe combined with a surprisingly adequate amount of space with the rear seats removed for cargo space.
Want to Hire an Electric Van With a Lot of Space? – Try the Renault Master E-Tech
If you were to hire an electric van, then the Renault Master E-Tech might be the one for you. This van was the second offering from Renault after the Renault Kangoo and it is proving a popular choice.
The biggest advantage about the Renault Master E-Tech is that it is a very big van and can carry more load than most other vans on the market. A 6ft person could comfortably stand up in the cargo hold without banging their head.
As with most vans, whether electric or not, the Master E-Tech is built for working and not for aesthetics. Don’t expect a plush cabin fitted with dazzling screens and high tech extras.
The cabin is built to be practical. The floor is designed to be easy to sweep and wash out. The fittings are all easily cleaned. The seating is very comfortable and will allow the passengers to arrive at work feeling relaxed and ready to go.
