SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 02, 2024 – Renault has introduced the Estafette Concept, an innovative electric van designed to meet the evolving needs of urban professionals. This cutting-edge vehicle marks a significant step in the evolution of electric utility vehicles, showcasing Renault's commitment to sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.
The Estafette Concept is built on the FlexEVan platform, developed in collaboration with Flexis, a joint venture between Renault Group, Volvo Group, and CMA CGM Group. This platform is specifically designed to address the challenges of the energy transition and last-mile delivery logistics.
Designed for the City and its Professionals
The Estafette Concept is a compact yet spacious all-electric van tailored to the demands of urban environments. Its dimensions are similar to the Kangoo L2, offering the agility of a Clio and the load capacity of a Trafic L1H2. This makes it ideal for navigating congested city streets while providing ample space for cargo.
Renault has prioritized the needs of professional drivers in the design of the Estafette Concept. The company has incorporated feedback from drivers to ensure the vehicle enhances operational efficiency and safety.
Philippe Divry, CEO of Flexis SAS, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating:
"We are very excited about helping to bring to life the vision that Renault Group and its partners Volvo Group and CMA CGM Group have come up with to revolutionize urban logistics, to make operations more sustainable, safer, city-friendlier, driver-friendlier and neighbour-friendlier. Estafette Concept is the first example of what electric utility vehicles will look like tomorrow: purpose-engineered to drive in cities, compact, connected and built for fully sustainable delivery services."
A Legacy of Innovation
The Estafette Concept draws inspiration from Renault's iconic 1959 van, sharing its innovative spirit and practicality. Both vehicles represent radical advancements in the van segment. The original Estafette was the first Renault vehicle to place the entire powertrain at the front, maximizing cargo space. Similarly, the new Estafette 4.0 is the first to feature the FlexEVan electric platform, poised to revolutionize the utility vehicle landscape.
Exterior Design: Embracing Urban Aesthetics
The Estafette Concept boasts a distinctive exterior design that aims to redefine the perception of vans in urban settings. Sandeep Bhambra, Chief Designer of Advanced Design and Concept Cars at Ampere, explained:
"Estafette Concept intends to change the way people perceive vans in cities, while applying and adapting the same interior and exterior concept across the line-up. Vans will no longer be anonymous shapes: they will be endearing, expressive and come in eye-catching pop colours."
The van's vertical silhouette, "standing-position" proportions, and unique openings, such as the pocket sliding side doors and self-rolling rear shutter, enhance both convenience and safety for the driver. The sleek design, highlighted by a "pop top" roof and a commanding grille with the illuminated Renault Nouvel'R logo, adds a touch of urban flair.
Interior Design: Ergonomics and Functionality
The interior of the Estafette Concept is designed with a focus on ergonomics and functionality. The cockpit area features a single seat for the driver, positioned on a platform to allow for easy transition between sitting and standing. The dashboard is equipped with advanced technology, including a 7-inch screen for dashboard information, a 12-inch screen facing the driver, and two 10-inch vertical screens displaying rear views from outside cameras.
Yannick Bignon, LCV Design Project Director at Ampere, emphasized the driver-centric design:
"Estafette Concept's cabin is engineered to radiate class and designed to reduce total cost of ownership. Its clever design makes the driver's job easier, and the van is built for them to work it hard day after day. And it includes smart safety features to protect people in cities."
SDV Architecture: The Future of Electric Vehicles
The Estafette Concept is Renault's first vehicle built on an SDV (Software-Defined Vehicle) electronic architecture. This advanced technology, developed by Ampere, allows for real-time updates, predictive maintenance, and a reduction in cost of use by approximately 30%.
Antoine Vuillaume, SDV Programme Director at Ampere, described the SDV architecture as:
"To make the vehicle intelligent, we added a proper brain with two hemispheres linked by an ultra-efficient nervous system."
Conclusion
The Renault Estafette Concept represents a significant advancement in the electric utility vehicle segment. Its innovative design, both inside and out, combined with the advanced SDV architecture, sets a new standard for urban-friendly, driver-centric, and technologically advanced electric vans. As the first example of what the future holds for electric utility vehicles, the Estafette Concept paves the way for a more sustainable and efficient urban transportation ecosystem.