Renault unveils the fourth generation of its Master light commercial vehicle with a platform ready to accept hydrogen fuel-cell technology when it becomes widely available.
The van, which has sold more than 3 million units since it first arrived in European markets in 1980, is built exclusively at the automaker’s Batilly plant near Metz in eastern France. The latest generation Master provides a multi-energy approach to propulsion, all claiming class-leading efficiency and lower operating costs with payloads increased to up to 2 metric tons.
Perhaps most intriguing of all is that Renault’s launch material states: “The All-new Renault Master is also designed to accommodate a hydrogen engine and fuel cell in future,” indicating the vehicle could be retrofitted with a zero-emission powertrain when the technology becomes available.
The battery-electric version is powered by a 105-kW (143-hp) motor, claiming 221 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of torque. It features an 87-kWh battery that claims a WLTP rated range of more than 255 miles (410 km).
As a result, the BEV Master claims a payload capacity of 3,573 lbs. (1,625 kg) in a van requiring only a passenger-car driving license plus a towing capability of 2.5 metric tons. Its consumption remains reasonable, at a WLTP standardized 21 kWh/100 km, thanks to the battery heat management system. A 130-kW DC fast charger adds 142 miles (229 km) of range in just 30 minutes. A 22 kW AC home charger tops up the battery from 10% to 100% in just under four hours.
Traditional powertrains include four diesel Blue dCi versions, delivering power outputs from 105 hp to 170 hp, claiming an extra 9 mpg while emitting less than 200 g/km of CO2. Depending on the version, the engines can be paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a new 9-speed automatic.
Renault stresses the vehicle’s interior is focused on its role as a mobile workstation or office that draws on premium passenger-car materials and ample space. Features include high-grade interior mirrors, an S-shaped dashboard facing the driver and a 10-in. (25.4-cm) infotainment screen.
Extra space is liberated with automatic versions now having the transmission controls on the steering wheel, freeing up storage space in the center console. Other driver storage includes side cupholders, glovebox drawers, a cab-ceiling slot and two storage tiers in the doors.
For workers with paperwork to complete, the middle seat folds down into a desk, the base houses a slot to store a laptop and there are USB-C ports to power devices.
