New Renault Trafic Electric E-Tech Van

Renault's latest addition to its commercial vehicle lineup is a significant step forward in providing UK businesses with eco-friendly transport solutions. Available now at Loads of Vans, the groundbreaking Renault Trafic E-Tech 100% electric van combines the versatility and reliability of the traditional Trafic medium van model with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology.

Our comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the mid-size battery-powered Trafic van where you’ll learn more about its capabilities. If you’re looking for an amazing deal on the new Renault Trafic E-Tech, then check out our exclusive offers to make substantial savings on this innovative electric model!

New Van Deal:

Get behind the wheel of a brand new Renault Trafic E-Tech for just £28,990 (+VAT) - that’s a HUGE reduction of over £15,000 compared to the recommended retail price. If you’re looking for a pre-owned model, then you’re in luck as our 2024 edition is currently on sale for under £20,000!

View our deals here.

Contract Hire Offer:

For a limited time, take advantage of our Business Contract Hire offer on the new Renault Trafic SL30 Advance E-Tech model!

Access this exclusive deal here.

New Model Highlights:

• Three versions are available with a choice of two body lengths and two height configurations
• Available in a generously-equipped Advance specification
• Standard features as an Easy Link display with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®,
• Advanced 52kWh battery delivering up to 186 miles of range (WLTP)
• Rapid DC charging capability up to 50kW
• Zero tailpipe emissions for unrestricted access to cities across the UK
• Impressive 1,222kg maximum payload capacity
• Up to 8.9m3 of load space as standard
• 920kg towing capacity
• State-of-the-art regenerative braking system
• Multiple driving modes for optimised efficiency on all kinds of journeys
• Advanced driver assistance and safety features as standard

New Type of Van - An Overview of the Latest Model:

The Renault Trafic E-Tech is a medium-sized, all-electric panel van with a GVW (gross vehicle weight) of 3,070kg, meaning it sits comfortably in the competitive 3-tonne class of the commercial vehicle market. 

As Renault's first electric version of their popular Trafic model and now in its fourth generation of design, the van is the middle piece of the jigsaw puzzle for the popular manufacturer, occupying the space between the smaller Renault Kangoo E-Tech and larger Renault Master E-Tech.

The Trafic E-Tech variant combines the proven practicality of the standard Trafic with advanced electric technology, without compromising on capability or load space. It’s with this in mind that Renault Trafic E-Tech’s evolution from the traditional Trafic design incorporates distinctive electric vehicle elements while maintaining the van's proven practicality.

How Much Does The Van Cost?

Here in the UK, the manufacturer’s recommended retail price for the Renault Trafic E-Tech starts from £43,155 for the Advance trim panel van in the standard length (L1H1) configuration. This includes VAT and the government Plug-in Van Grant (PiVG). Prices of course can increase based on the trim level and size variant.

Government Incentives: Plug-in Van Grant Extended

In a welcome development, the UK government has extended the Plug-in Van Grant until 2026, which was previously set to expire in April 2025. This extension forms part of a £120m funding package designed to support businesses switching to zero-emission commercial vehicles.

The Renault Trafic E-Tech van is eligible for this grant, which provides:

• Up to £2,500 off the purchase price for vans weighing up to 2.5 tonnes
• Up to £5,000 off for larger vans weighing between 2.5 to 4.25 tonnes

In a surprise decision, the government has also removed the requirement for additional driver training, which was previously needed only for electric vans. This will help to reduce administrative burden and training costs for businesses switching to electric.

Available Now at Loads of Vans

While these are the manufacturer's suggested retail prices, at Loads of Vans we are able to offer the Renault Trafic E-Tech for a favourably discounted price that can help make your transition to electric more affordable! Our new E-Tech models are on sale for under £30,000 with flexible finance options starting from just £499 per month - our deals are too good to miss! 

Electric Performance and Efficiency - Technical Characteristics

It’s no secret that the adoption of electric vans has been met with some resistance, but this really shouldn’t be the case! Time and time again we hear from business owners who are concerned about the performance of battery-powered commercial vehicles compared to those fitted with a conventional combustion engine. 

The good news is that contrary to perceptions about electric vehicles, vans like the Renault Trafic E-Tech deliver a performance that often surpasses its diesel counterpart in real-world conditions. This is because EVs benefit from an instant torque delivery and in the case of the Trafic E-Tech, 245Nm of torque provides immediate response and stronger acceleration from a standstill - even when fully loaded.

Now let’s discuss the practicalities of a gearless system: electric vehicles are automatic, so the lack of gear changes not only means less effort for you as the driver but results in a smoother, more consistent power delivery. You may be surprised to learn that battery placement is far from a hindrance for the van; as such, the Renault Trafic E-Tech has a lower centre of gravity from the battery’s position which actually improves handling and stability.

Adaptive Regenerative Brake System (ARBS) Technology

We would say the performance of the Renault Trafic E-Tech is furthermore enhanced by its cutting-edge regenerative braking system, designed not only to extend the van's driving range but also to provide better control on descents when fully loaded. Allow us to give you a bit more insight into how this revolutionary system works…

The Renault Trafic E-Tech's Adaptive Regenerative Brake System (ARBS) is a technology primarily for recovering energy to enhance the van’s overall efficiency and performance on the road. This sophisticated system automatically adjusts regenerative braking force based on driving conditions, converting the van's kinetic energy during deceleration and braking into electrical energy that's stored in the battery for extended range.

ARBS largely works through the van's intelligent B-Mode (Brake Mode) interface. Here, drivers can customise the regeneration intensity via the automatic gear selector, with options ranging from subtle energy recovery to enhanced deceleration that enables efficient one-pedal driving - especially useful during city-based jobs.

How Does ARBS Work?

The technology operates by intelligently transforming the electric motor into a generator when the driver releases the accelerator pedal. This seamless transition captures forward momentum and converts it to usable electricity while providing smooth, predictable deceleration. The adaptive nature of the system means it automatically optimises regenerative force based on factors such as vehicle speed, battery charge level, and road conditions.

Renault has proven that where stop-start driving is frequent, the ARBS technology demonstrates exceptional efficiency. For example, the system can recapture up to 20% of energy normally lost during braking, potentially adding significant battery range during everyday driving. What’s really useful is that real-time energy recovery data is displayed on the Trafic E-Tech’s instrument cluster, clear for the driver to see.

The feedback we’ve received from owners includes reports on an all-around responsive performance in various driving conditions. Drivers also commented on its near-silent operation which seems to make the whole in-cabin experience much more enjoyable.  

Battery Power and Driving Range 

You could say the beating heart of the Trafic E-Tech is its advanced 52kWh lithium-ion battery pack, engineered for optimal performance and longevity - Renault’s are built to last! The van achieves a WLTP-certified range of up to 186 miles on a single charge, making it more than ideal for daily work use. As we’ve highlighted in the section above, this range can be further extended through the intelligent use of the van's regenerative braking system.

Charging Capabilities and Power Solutions 

The van's charging system is designed with everyday use in mind, meaning that you can choose the most cost-effective and efficient charging method depending on the job at hand. Whether you require rapid charging during short breaks or overnight charging at a depot, the Trafic E-Tech can adapt to various charging habits depending on your whereabouts. For added convenience, the charging port is strategically located at the front of the vehicle, so there’s no need to reverse into tight spots.

Renault Trafic E-Tech van charging overview:

• DC rapid charging (up to 50kW) of 0-80% in under 1 hour
• Gain 31 miles of range in just 21 minutes with rapid charging
• AC charging (7.4kW) for a full charge in just over 5 hours
• AC charging (3.7kW) for a full charge in just over 12 hours
• Emergency charging is possible through a standard domestic socket (this will take almost 24 hours for a full charge)

Renault has made sure the dreaded ‘range anxiety’ is a thing of the past by ensuring the Trafic E-Tech 100% electric van is compatible with most public charging stations throughout the UK. You can even pop into any Renault dealership across the country for a convenient top-up!

Five Smart Charging Features You Need to Know About! Benefit From:

1. Programmable charging times to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates
2. Remote charging control via a smartphone app
3. Real-time charging status monitoring
4. Temperature pre-conditioning while plugged in at home or work
5. Charging schedule based on planned departure times   

Recharging Costs: Take Advantage of Annual Fuel Savings

No doubt one of the biggest selling points of an electric van is the savings you make on fuel. So you can get a good idea of how much money you can save by switching from petrol or diesel to electric, Renault has put together a handy tool to show the annual savings you will make with its Trafic E-Tech model. 

Based on 10,000 miles a year with an estimated fuel consumption of 49 mpg (and trust us, that’s pretty generous!), Renault says the following (based on approximate figures):

Electric Van vs Diesel Van vs Petrol Van Fuel/Charging Table:

Annual savings with a 100% Electric model = £624.02 compared to the diesel engine and £559.07 compared to the petrol variant!

Driving Range and Charging Time Calculator

To enhance your Trafic E-Tech van experience, Renault has also created a useful free online tool so you can calculate your driving range and charging time for your vehicle’s use. While these figures are estimated, they still provide you with valuable insight into the performance capabilities of your electric Trafic model. 

Advanced Technology and Electric Innovation of the Van E-Tech Powered by the Human First Program

Backed by decades of research and continuous innovation in vehicle safety technology, Renault has ensured its Human First Program is fully integrated into the Trafic E-Tech van. A comprehensive safety initiative developed by the manufacturer, this innovative programme extends well beyond traditional vehicle protection, encompassing all road users including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

Through the Human First Program, 10 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have been implemented in every electric van to ensure the well-being of everyone inside the vehicle, as well as other road users.

10 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems in the Trafic E-Tech:

1 - Active Emergency Braking System with Pedestrian Detection

• Continuously monitors road conditions
• Provides audio-visual warnings of potential collisions
• Automatically applies brakes if no driver action is taken

2 - Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go

• Maintains safe following distance
• Automatically adjusts speed to match traffic flow
• Can bring the van to a complete stop and resume driving

3- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist

• Alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts from a lane without signalling
• Provides gentle steering correction when needed
• Works effectively even with partial road markings

4 - Blind Spot Warning

• Monitors hard-to-see areas around the van
• Provides visual alerts in side mirrors
• Enhanced detection for longer vehicle lengths

5 - Traffic Sign Recognition

• Reads and displays speed limits and road signs
• Updates information in real-time
• Integrates with speed limiter function

6 - Driver Attention Alert

• Monitors driving patterns for signs of fatigue
• Suggests break times based on journey duration
• Provides audible and visual rest reminders

7 - 360-Degree Parking Sensors

• Offers complete perimeter protection
• Includes visual guidance on touchscreen display
• Particularly useful for tight spaces

8 - Rear Cross Traffic Alert

• Detects vehicles approaching from sides when reversing
• Very useful when exiting parking spaces
• Provides both visual and audible warnings

9 - Hill Start Assist

• Prevents rollback on inclines
• Automatically holds brake pressure
• Smooth transition when starting on hills

10 - Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Load Adaptive Control

• Adjusts stability control based on cargo weight
• Enhanced traction in all weather conditions
• Specific calibration for electric powertrain 

Did You Know?

To develop the Human First Program and for its ongoing improvement, Renault donates approximately 600 vehicles annually for emergency service training. Used by the likes of specialist firefighters, their findings are crucial to the success of vehicle safety innovation. 

Renault Trafic E-Tech Driving Modes

For smart energy management, Renault has incorporated three distinctive driving modes in its Trafic E-Tech electric vans. Each intelligent drive mode system allows the driver to optimise the van's performance based on specific driving conditions and range requirements, as we outline below:

Eco Mode

• Designed for maximum range and efficiency
• Reduces power output to 60kW to extend battery life
• Softens accelerator pedal response for a smoother performance
• Limits top speed to 60mph (96km/h)
• Reduces climate control system power consumption
• Ideal for city driving and when range is a priority
• Can extend the range by up to 10% in optimal conditions

Normal Mode

• The standard balanced setting for everyday operation
• Full access to 120hp power output
• Natural accelerator pedal response
• Regular climate control operation
• Optimised regenerative braking levels
• Suitable for mixed driving conditions
• Best compromise between performance and efficiency

Sport Mode

• Enhanced performance setting
• Maximises power delivery and torque response
• Sharpened accelerator pedal sensitivity
• Full power climate control operation
• Reduced regenerative braking for smoother deceleration
• Ideal when carrying heavy loads
• Will reduce the overall driving range due to increased performance

B-Mode (Brake Mode)

• Enhanced regenerative braking setting
• Three selectable levels of energy recuperation:
• Level 1: Light regeneration for motorway driving
• Level 2: Medium regeneration for town-based roads
• Level 3: Maximum regeneration for stop-start traffic
• Real-time energy recovery levels displayed on the instrument display

Environmental Benefits and Cost Savings of Switching to Electric Vehicles

Renault's commitment to sustainable commercial transport is demonstrated by the 100% electric Trafic E-Tech van. As part of their electrification strategy to meet the government’s ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vans by 2030, the zero-emission van is a significant step forward for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint. 

With a focus on reducing both direct emissions and overall environmental impact, Renault has ensured the van's production processes and materials align with their broader sustainability goals. The integration of recycled materials, energy-efficient manufacturing, and a design made for eventual recyclability, proves that Renault is getting serious about its environmental responsibility.

Compared to the diesel Trafic, the E-Tech variant offers many benefits:

• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Reduced noise pollution with near-silent operation
• Lower carbon footprint when charged with renewable energy
• Compliant with all low-emission zones and future environmental regulations
• Up to 60% lower fuel costs depending on electricity tariffs
• Reduced maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts
• Lower road tax and potential local authority incentives
• Exemption from congestion charges in many cities

FAQs and Answers

Q: What is the Battery Warranty on the Renault Trafic E-Tech?

A: Renault provides a comprehensive battery warranty package for the Trafic E-Tech. When purchasing the van new, expect 8 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first) battery capacity guarantee. This means it is guaranteed to maintain at least 70% of its original capacity within the warranty period. If the battery capacity drops below the guaranteed level, then coverage includes repair or replacement. 

Q: What is the E-Save Button on a Renault?

A: The E-Save button is a smart energy management feature that allows drivers to reserve battery power for later use. It offers three levels of battery preservation:

1. 40% battery reserve
2. 20% battery reserve
3. 10% battery reserve

This function is particularly useful when planning routes that include low-emission zones or when you need to ensure sufficient range for return journeys.

Q: How Does the Range Vary in Different Conditions?

A: Real-world range can vary based on several factors. The Trafic E-Tech van's trip computer provides accurate range predictions based on driving style and conditions. Renault estimates the following: 

• In summer conditions typically allow for 165-186 miles of real-world driving range
• Winter conditions may reduce the driving range to 130-150 miles
• Heavy loads and motorway driving can reduce the range by 10-20%
• City driving with frequent regenerative braking opportunities can extend the range

Q: Can I Tow with the Renault Trafic E-Tech?

A: Yes, the Trafic E-Tech is approved for towing with a maximum capacity of 750kg for an unbraked trailer and up to 920kg for a braked trailer. However, towing will significantly impact the van's real-world driving range, typically reducing it by 30-50% depending on the load and conditions.

Q: Is the Renault Trafic E-Tech Right for My Business?

A: The Trafic E-Tech is particularly suitable for businesses operating in populated areas and those with predictable daily routes within the van's range. It’s also a great choice for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint, hugely benefitting firms working in Clean Air Zones or Low Emission Zones. Of course, it’s essential that you have access to overnight parking where charging is possible. 

Experience the Trafic E-Tech at Loads of Vans

Visit our Loads of Vans dealership to explore the revolutionary Renault Trafic E-Tech, available for pre-ordering, in person. We can help you understand how this advanced electric van can benefit your business, with competitive finance options and comprehensive aftersales support available. Contact us today to arrange a test drive and discover why the Trafic E-Tech is leading the charge in electric commercial vehicles. 

Don’t forget to check out our exclusive offers on the Renault Trafic E-Tech range!