THE MASTER OF LARGE EVS? (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Renault's Master E-Tech was one of the original full-electric large vans. How should you rate it now? Jonathan Crouch decides.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 76

The electric Renault Master E-Tech has improved its offering considerably since we first saw it back in 2018, but you'll still have to make a few compromises if you're to choose this large battery-powered van over the equivalent diesel version. Still, it's now more smartly designed and much more practical than before. Value's still a draw card here too, but you'll need to have the kind of business that suits what this French contender can deliver.

Backgroundword count: 162

Being first to market isn't always a good thing, as Renault has discovered to its cost over the last two decades with its pioneering role in the EV automotive revolution. Which included a leading role in electrifying large vans: the brand's big Master LCV was the first of these to offer a full-EV variant back in 2018. Not many people bought that model (badged the Master Z.E.) because, to be frank, it wasn't very good, with a feeble 33kWh battery offering a driving range of just 74 miles. But this French maker subsequently worked on the technology, a 2020 update bringing this model a new name, the Master E-Tech, and more importantly, a bigger 52kWh battery, boosting range to 126 miles. In 2022 though, Ford's E-Transit re-set what the segment could expect from a large EV van and a further step forward was needed. Does this new generation Master E-Tech Electric (which shares everything with Nissan's Interstar-e) provide just that? Let's see.

Engines and Tech Specword count: 207

Whereas the previous Master E-Tech was woefully under-powered and under-energised (borrowing its drivetrain from the brand's little supermini-sized ZOE van), this one's a very different story. This EV variant now has much improved pulling power, thanks to a new 140hp motor delivering 300Nm of torque. It's paired with a much bigger 87kWh battery that provides for a vastly improved range figure of up to 285 miles. Renault's also worked hard on a novel new power-assisted dynamic braking control system that keeps braking effectiveness and pedal feel the same, regardless of how much weight the van is carrying. It also triggers the automatic emergency braking system sooner (response time has been halved) and enhances regeneration, extending the range of the electric versions. And, as you'd expect from an all-new design, the portfolio of camera and radar driver assistance and safety features has been widened. There are now 20 available systems to maximise safety for people in and around the vehicle. It's active safety features include its lateral stability, automatic emergency braking and trailer stability assist systems. It also comes with Intelligent Speed Assist to help the driver stay within the speed limit. The shorter wheelbase and redesigned front axle provide for extra manoeuvrability, including a 1.5-metre-shorter turning diameter.

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