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Renault Master Z.E. Renault Trucks – Activate the ‘Master’ Switch
One can with reasonable certainty say that in whatever form it may finally take, the electric vehicle (EV) is here to stay. While the passenger car EV market will evolve at a pace determined by the motorist’s trends, pricing and Government policy, the same cannot be said for the commercial vehicle user. Although the growth of EVs in the car sector remains slow, it is increasing and some would argue that it is now moving towards a moral tipping point. One company that has been at the forefront of EV development is Renault Trucks, and through its collaboration with Groupe Renault, is applying its experience and know-how to the van sector, where the true practicalities of the EV will be tested. Under the Renault Trucks model line, the Renault Master van range is sold under the Master Red Edition label. It includes the latest Master Z.E. which has now joined the range. In general, the social and domestic EV driver does little mileage apart from the daily commute and occasional trips at the weekend. For the van driver, the light commercial is primarily used for business with perhaps some personal mileage added in. Therefore, purchasing an EV is a business decision and any decision to invest must deliver a return. However, there are a vast number of factors to be considered, with the principal one being what the van will be used for. Renault claims the Master Z.E.’s 33 kWh 400 V Lithium-ion battery offers a real-world driving distance of 120 km in summer and 80 km in winter. In Ireland our winters are generally never as severe as those experienced in other markets, so the variation may not be that dramatic. However, several other factors also affect the range capacity, in particular the FLEETVAN&UTILITY | SUMMER 2021
driving style and the topography. Driving style is vital to preserving the power and this is where some element of driver education may be needed, especially for those who have never driven an EV. On the positive side, the majority of people are usually converted after their first drive in an EV, and soon progress to become enthusiasts. Of course, the Master Z.E. is a commercial vehicle and so must go to
work. There is a premium on the initial cost of all EVs and there is as yet a slight question mark over the residual value as the pre-owned market is not yet developed. Equally, there is the looming possibility of policies designed to eliminate fossil-fuelled vehicles from the roads. This will possibly have an impact on the residual values of pre-owned vans and in particular, diesel-fuelled models.
With that in mind, it could be time to start developing a long term plan to make a change. The Master Z.E. has a stylish contemporary exterior and is available in three body lengths with a choice of two heights for the SWB version. Both the medium and long-wheelbase versions come with the higher roof option as standard. In panel van format the Z.E. offers a carrying capacity from 8m³ to 13m³. There is also a variety of chassis cab and platform options available. In addition to its stylish contemporary exterior, the Master Z.E. provides the driver with a stylish contemporary interior that is spacious and well-finished. The model has evolved through a series of enhancements that have delivered well-designed practical storage including a robust overhead shelf and a clever retractable A5 sized tablet holder to take care of the IT needs. To power the selection of tech devices the modern mobile worker needs, there are several well-placed USB and power points. It must be remembered of course that the van may also be the office, rest area and dining table. With this in mind, Renault has also included some low-tech (though equally important) details to meet the needs of the driver. Simple features such as coat hooks, well-designed cup holders and options of centre folding seat/table all combine to make
