Electric Renault Kangoo E-Tech gets 300km range

Renault has released fresh details on the new all-electric Renault Kangoo Van E-Tech it plans to introduce in Europe next year.

Following in the tyre tracks of the previous battery-powered small van that has sold more than 70,000 units since it was introduced in 2011, the headline news for the new-generation 2022 Renault Kangoo EV is it gets a class-leading WLTP-verified 300km range.

Powered by a 45kWh (useable) battery, the small French van is driven by a small front-mounted 90kW/245Nm electric motor.

Renault hasn't quoted performance figures, but using an 80kW charger adds 170km of range in 30 minutes, while an 11kW wallbox boosts the range from 15-100 per cent in just under four hours.

Six driving modes are available with the electric Kangoo including a specific Eco mode that reduces power for the most efficient progress.

There's also three levels of regenerative braking, including a one-pedal mode. For colder climates there's even a heat pump in the air-con that significantly boosts efficiency in temperatures less than 15 degrees Celsius.

More impressive for van operators is the electric version doesn't compromise its capabilities. There's still 3.9 cubic metres of cargo space and a 600kg payload, while the small Kangoo can still tow up to 1500kg.

Later on, Renault will also offer a long-wheelbase version with 4.9 cubic metres of space and a decent 800kg payload.

As far as options go, there's an 8.0-inch touch-screen, 10-inch digital instrument cluster, heated windscreen, heated front seats and even a heated steering wheel.

Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go will also be available.

Built in the same northern French factory as both the Mercedes-Benz Citan and the Nissan Townstar, it's thought the Kangoo's German and Japanese blood relatives will both be offered with the same electric powertrain in the near future.