Renault’s latest electric van, the Estafette Concept, is set to shake up urban deliveries and meet the growing demands of professionals who navigate city streets daily. Taking cues from Renault’s classic 1959 Estafette, this concept van embodies Renault’s forward-thinking approach to electric utility vehicles, designed to support the hustle of modern cities and those who work within them.

The Estafette Concept isn’t just another electric van – it’s a game-changer built with input from the very people who will be using it: delivery drivers, tradespeople, and small business owners. This compact-yet-spacious van merges the agility of a Renault Clio, the load capacity of a Trafic, and the overall length of a Kangoo L2, creating the perfect balance between maneuverability and functionality. It’s a no-nonsense electric workhorse built for the future of urban logistics.

Renault Estafette Concept
Renault Estafette Concept

Designed with Professionals in Mind

Every aspect of the Estafette Concept has been crafted with feedback from the people who rely on vans the most. Whether it’s about streamlining operations or enhancing safety, the Estafette Concept is all about making life on the job easier. Sliding side doors that require just one motion to open? Check. A rear shutter that rolls up neatly without needing extra space behind the van? Absolutely. And all of this is packed into a vehicle that fits in a standard parking spot, making it as nimble as a hatchback but with the muscle of a full-size van.

A rear shutter that rolls up neatly without needing extra space behind the van
The rear shutter rolls up neatly without needing extra space behind the van

Tech-Savvy and Fully Connected

At the heart of the Estafette Concept lies the FlexEVan platform, a smart, software-driven architecture developed by Renault’s tech arm, Ampere. This cutting-edge platform boosts efficiency by integrating advanced features like real-time updates, predictive maintenance, and other intelligent systems. This means less downtime and more savings for operators, with costs reportedly slashed by up to 30%.

The FlexEVan platform, a smart, software-driven architecture developed by Renault’s tech arm, Ampere
The FlexEVan platform, a smart, software-driven architecture developed by Renault’s tech arm, Ampere

A Nod to the Past, with Eyes on the Future

The Estafette Concept’s design pays homage to the iconic 1959 Renault Estafette, known for its practical and innovative layout. Back then, it was the first Renault van to house its engine and transmission at the front, freeing up more space for cargo. Now, 65 years later, Renault is once again revolutionising the utility van market with the Estafette 4.0 – the first to use the futuristic FlexEVan platform. Just like its predecessor, the new Estafette is compact, spacious, and built for convenience, with twin sliding doors for easy access and a sleek design that’s surprisingly user-friendly.

The iconic 1959 Renault Estafette
The iconic 1959 Renault Estafette

Bold Exterior and Clever Design

The Estafette Concept isn’t just functional – it’s also a looker. Designed by Sandeep Bhambra, Renault’s Advanced Design Chief, it boasts an eye-catching, two-tone body, with a Tropical Yellow pop-top contrasting a Helium Grey cab. It’s not all about style, though – this design also helps to mask the van’s height and enhances its practicality. Standing at 2.59 metres, it offers ample space inside without sacrificing agility in tight city spots.

Renault Estafette Concept with two-tone body, with a Tropical Yellow pop-top contrasting a Helium Grey cab
Eye-catching two-tone body, with a Tropical Yellow pop-top contrasting a Helium Grey cab

Safety First, Always

Renault has gone above and beyond with safety features, ensuring that professionals can focus on the task at hand without worrying about the road. The cargo area is cleverly divided from the cockpit, so drivers can easily access goods without exposing them to potential theft or accidents. Plus, with rear shutters that open completely for loading and designated sliding doors for safe unloading, it’s designed to keep drivers and their cargo secure at all times.

The cargo area is cleverly divided from the cockpit
The cargo area is cleverly divided from the cockpit

The Future of City-Friendly Vans

As cities grow and delivery demands skyrocket, Renault’s Estafette Concept is poised to lead the charge in sustainable urban logistics. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also offers the flexibility and modularity that modern professionals need. Whether it’s refrigerated compartments or extra power outlets, the Estafette can be adapted to suit the unique needs of various trades. And with the SDV architecture, it will only get smarter over time, thanks to its ability to receive updates and enhancements throughout its life cycle.

In a world where the pressures on urban transport are increasing daily, the Renault Estafette Concept is proof that the future of commercial vans is electric, connected, and ready to take on the challenges of the modern cityscape.

Will South Africa ever see this van? Only time will tell – this electric van is set to hit the streets in two years’ time in Europe, and it’s likely to change the way we think about urban logistics for good.