Nissan has debuted its new-generation Interstar large van, delivering more space, versatility and its first-ever fully electric variant.

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Arriving later this year, the Ford Transit and Vauxhall Movano rival is based on the fourth-generation Renault Master E-Tech van shown last week under the firms’ alliance and uses the same platform.

The Interstar will be available with a wide range of body derivatives and sizes for both the diesel version and the pure electric Interstar-e. As with its Renault cousin, the electric version will also deliver an official range of around 286 miles.

Larger than before and with bolder truck-inspired design, the all-new van also features a 40mm wider side door alongside a 100mm longer load area, along with a payload of up to 1,625kg for the electric version and almost 2,000kg for the ICE options.

Drivetrains will also offer towing capacity up to 2,500kg, providing greater capabilities for fleet operators.

Like the Master, the Interstar has been designed for “class-leading aerodynamics”, with a 20% drag (SCx) reduction, helping customers save either fuel or electricity and maximising their driving range and business efficiency.

The Interstar-e, Nissan’s first fully electric large van, is designed to deliver more sustainable operations without compromising on performance. Two versions will be available; a shorter-range ‘mission’ version with a 40kWh battery for approximately 124 miles and the longer-range model with an 87kWh battery that delivers the top range of over 286 miles. Nissan hasn’t stated specifications for the motors but the Master E-Tech variants output 131hp.

Nissan’s D/C Charging offers rapid capabilities, recharging up to 157 miles in just 30 minutes for the larger battery. At the same time, its A/C Charging capabilities cater for depot charging from 10-100% in under four hours.

The four-tonne Interstar-e can be driven across Europe with a regular B-category driving licence under the EU and UK’s derogation, giving users access to its 1,625kg payload that’s typically higher than 3.5-tonne diesel vans.

The Interstar will also be available in a diesel version. Details of this are yet to be revealed but it will come with a manual or a nine-speed automatic gearbox and “class-leading” fuel efficiency.

The interior has been revamped and includes new comfort and convenience features for drivers and passengers, such as durable seat covers and a heated windscreen.

All models come as standard with safety features such as forward emergency braking and drowsiness warning and trailer sway assist.

The Interstar also delivers a smaller turning circle while the 1-box braking system optimises braking power.

The new Interstar-e supports Nissan’s plans to make the switch to full electric by 2030 in Europe – and its work to fully electrifying its LCV line-up from 2026.

Nicolas Tschann, light commercial vehicle director, Nissan Europe, said: “Nissan’s next-gen Interstar is the ultimate ally for essential businesses that keep society running.

“With an all-electric version, increased load capacity, and a diverse range of conversion options, we’re delivering exactly what our everyday champions – the SMEs of the world – need to keep society running smoothly!”

The Interstar comes with Nissan’s five-year/100,000-miles standard warranty with an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the Interstar-e battery.

Pre-sales begin in Q2 2024, with the start of official sales later this year in Q4 2024.