Renault has unveiled its new-generation Trafic Van E-Tech at the Solutrans show in Lyon, France.

The fourth-gen Trafic will deliver a range of up to 450km along with fast-charging 800V technology

The first in a new family of all-electric LCVs due by late 2026, the fourth-generation Trafic will deliver a range of up to 450km WLTP (280 miles max) along with fast-charging 800V technology.

Trafic E-Tech chassis cab, platform cab, tipper, flatbed and cargo box versions will follow, again focused on delivering new flexible, intelligent and responsible solutions for business users.

First launched in 1980, Trafic has racked up sales of over 2.5 million units across three generations.

The first Renault vehicle with a SDV (Software Defined Vehicle) architecture developed by Renault’s Ampere EV division, the Trafic E-Tech is “hyper-connected, scalable” and able to receive automatic updates. It will also feature vehicle to load (V2L) and vehicle to grid (V2G) capabilities, with advanced digital integration for business users.

The new all-electric ‘skateboard’ platform is designed to optimise load capacity in relation to footprint, with a minimal front overhang and rear-mounted powertrain. This also makes for a turning circle as small as seen on the Clio, standing at 10.3m.

Two lengths will be available. In L1 form, the new van offers load capacity of 5.1m3 for a length of 4.87m and width of 1.92m. The L2 van has load capacity of 5.8m3 for a length of 5.27m, with a wheelbase that is 40cm longer. At the same time, overall height has been reduced to 1.90m, ensuring access to all underground car parks. The van also has large doors for loading Euro pallets from the side or rear.

The new-generation electric motor has an output of 204hp (150kW) and 345Nm of torque, potentially enabling a towing capacity of 2,000kg and a payload of 1,250kg, pending homologation.

Two battery options will be available: urban range or long range.

For high-mileage drivers, the long-range battery with NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) will deliver a maximum range of around 450km WLTP (280 miles).. This battery will be available from launch.

The urban range battery uses LFP (lithium iron phosphate) technology with no rare metals such as cobalt or nickel and will combine “a competitive price” with a range of almost 350km WLTP (217 miles)). This battery will be available at a later date.

The batteries also offer new 800V fast-charging technology in a first for Renault. With a DC fast charging point, the battery charges from 15% to 80% in around 20 minutes, recovering 260km (162 miles) in range.

The Trafic Van E-Tech will also feature vehicle-to-load (V2L) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities. This means that it will be able to charge external appliances (V2L, from the vehicle to an electrical device) from a port in the charging area of the cab or via an adapter that can be plugged in to connect appliances such as tooling or a laptop. It will also be able to feed energy from the battery to the grid (V2G), with its bi-directional charger.

Futuristic looks include a “visor-like windscreen” and a new rear light signature sculpted in 3D. The “disruptive” cockpit features a robust tube-shaped dashboard running from one side of the cabin to the other, housing a 10-inch instrument cluster and a 12-inch central screen angled towards the driver.

The seats are upholstered in a mix of Zeta blue-jean and grey fabric, with yellow stitching on the grey and white on the blue-jean.

Renault also says the interior comes with “an array of ingenious, generously sized compartments”.

The Trafic Van E-Tech Electric will be built in France at the Renault Group plant in Sandouville, alongside the existing Trafic ICE, which will remain on sale. Sandouville will also build a number of the conversions most frequently requested by customers onsite, some of which will be managed by Qstomize, the Renault subsidiary specialising in LCV customisation and conversion, in a building adjacent to the main plant.

For bespoke projects, customers will be able to use the 300 Renault Pro+ approved partner bodybuilders.

Prices and specification details will be announced closer to launch.