- Renault set to launch next-gen electric vans
- Estafette, Goelette and all-new Trafic
- Set to arrive in 2026
- Joint venture between Renault and Flexis
Renault is casting an eye to its past for naming inspiration for its upcoming line-up of commercial vehicles.
Blending heritage with modern technology, the manufacturer will expand its electrical commercial vehicle range with the Estafette, Goelette and Trafic, providing flexibility and scalability to commercial businesses.
The Trafic will provide an option for those wanting a more traditionally styled van; the Goelette offers greater versatility for conversions, while the Estafette will prioritise urban logistics.
These three models will be developed as part of a joint venture between Renault Group, CMA CGM Group and Volvo Group, known as Flexis. Flexis aims to satisfy various commercial requirements within the electric van market, developing vehicles which cover everything from smaller-scale urban logistics to much larger fleet operations.
Built on a new “skateboard” platform, the vans will integrate Renault’s software-defined vehicle (SDV) architecture, giving the vehicles greater connectivity and flexibility and lower running costs. The modular design allows for wide-ranging customisation, appealing to multiple industries.
Renault Trafic E-Tech
The Renault Trafic has been a familiar face in the company’s commercial vehicle range since 1980, and the all-electric version will represent its fourth generation. The exterior design of the Trafic E-Tech will retain its well-known design, but the interior space has been maximised thanks to new proportions.
Manoeuvrability has been enhanced, with the extended wheelbase and short front end placing the wheels nearer the corners, keeping the turning circle tight, akin to the Renault Clio. It’s relatively short in stature, too, at 1.90m, so most car parks and height-restricted areas don’t pose a problem.
The latest design elements from the French manufacturer have been added, such as the central lighting strip and backlit logo in the grille. Angles and curves within the styling of the body panels give a nod to potential performance, and the asymmetrical hinged rear doors and spoiler help to optimise aerodynamics.
Renault Goelette E-Tech
The name Goelette was originally used in the 1950s and 60s, adorning a popular Renault van. The new electric multi-purpose model, the Goelette E-Tech, will be available in box, tipper and chassis cab configurations, which will support a range of conversions.
The Goelette — essentially a Trafic chassis cab model — is a modular design that can support extensive customisation and specialist conversion and accommodate various body types.
The open rear section of the Goelette makes it the perfect base for an almost infinite range of customisation, giving businesses a practical choice to work with when they require a tailor-made solution.
Renault Estafette E-Tech
Another name that Renault has revived is the Estafette. The Estafette E-Tech is a compact electric van designed with city driving in mind. At just 5.27m long and 1.92m wide, it is petite, highly manoeuvrable, and can easily navigate tight turns in compact urban environments.
Despite the small dimensions, the Estafette is designed for ease of access. With a height of 2.60m, there is plenty of room for movement between the cab and the cargo area. To the side is a sliding door, and the rear has a roller shutter, making loading and unloading in city settings simple. The addition of running boards on each side makes for easier entry and exit, too.
The light signature of the Estafette has been inspired by the Trafic E-Tech, featuring a light strip and precisely aligned daytime running lights.
Market Availability
Renault is reinforcing its commitment to domestic production and will manufacture all three new models at its plant in Sandouville, France. The vans will introduced into the electric range in 2026, but full details, specifications and pricing are not yet available and are expected to be announced in the coming months.
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