Autobayng News Team
- Renault details its new fully electric Traffic E-Tech van, which hits the European market in 2027.
- Its 800-volt skateboard platform maximizes cargo space and charging speed and aids maneuverability.
- Two battery packs will be offered, and the long-range model will be able to travel up to 280 miles on one charge.
Design isn’t that important for commercial vehicles, but that hasn’t stopped Renault from giving its new electric Traffic van a healthy helping of French chic. The Traffic E-Tech Electric not only looks good, but it promises up to 280 miles (450 km) of range and quick top-ups thanks to an 800-volt electric platform.
It’s the first of three new electric vans from the French manufacturer, all of which are built on the same software-defined Ampere architecture. Renault says it can do the 10 to 80% charging dash in 20 minutes, adding 161 miles (260 km), which is remarkable for a van. Gallery: Renault Traffic E-Tech Electric
The base model gets a smaller LFP battery pack of unspecified capacity or range, which probably also charges at a lower rate than the big-battery NMC version. Whichever variant you go for, the motor will be in the back, powering the rear wheels. This enabled Renault to make this van very maneuverable, so even though it measures 191 inches (4.87 meters) in total length, it has the same turning circle radius as a Clio subcompact hatchback.
Since there’s nothing on the front axle, Renault was able to shrink the Traffic’s front overhang, helping make it even more maneuverable in tight spots. Its skateboard platform also allowed the manufacturer to lower its overall height to 74.8 inches (1.9 meters), which it says will help the vehicle better fit through underground parking garages.
Both battery variants are motivated by the same 201-horsepower motor with a peak torque rating of 255 lb-ft (345 Nm). Its maximum payload is 2,755 lbs (1.25 tonnes), and it can tow up to 4,400 lbs (2 tonnes). The interior load volume rises from 180 cu-ft (5.1 cubic meters) in the short-wheelbase model to 204 cu-ft (5.8 cubic meters) in the stretched version, whose wheelbase is 15 inches (40 cm) longer.
Inside, it borrows its 10-inch driver’s display and 12-inch infotainment screen from other Renaults, complete with the new Google-powered operating system, which we tried in the 5 E-Tech. This means it gets an AI-powered digital assistant and is compatible with over-the-air updates. Renault will build the Traffic E-tech in France, and production starts in late 2026, so the first deliveries will commence at the start of 2027. Pricing has not been announced yet. More Renault EVs We want your opinion! What would you like to see on Insideevs.com? – The InsideEVs team
