Renault Kangoo E-Tech Electric (2020 - ) review

As the Kangoo E-Tech Electric was designed around having a battery from the outset, there isn’t any compromise when it comes to cargo space. Available in the same two lengths as the diesel version, the Kangoo E-Tech Electric can carry 600kg in L1 trim and 800kg in the longer L2. The latter includes a sliding door aperture of 830mm. Those payload figures put it on a par with other electric vans such as the Vauxhall Combo-e. Unfortunately, right-hand-drive models aren’t available with Renault’s innovative ‘Open Sesame’ design that does away with the pillar between the front and sliding door to create a large open load space on the passenger side. Nonetheless, towing remains possible, with the Kangoo capable of pulling 1,500kg.

The Kangoo E-Tech Electric’s interior is relatively car-like in how it looks and feels. Its multifunction steering wheel is the same as what you’ll find in a Renault Arkana, with sensibly sized buttons for ease of use. A traditional automatic gear selector makes the battery-powered Kangoo seem normal, too. Physical rotary controls for the temperature and climate settings are a bonus. The standard DAB radio setup looks basic but includes a USB port; you’ll need to choose the Advance trim grade if you want the eight-inch touchscreen. One passenger seat is standard, while a two-seat passenger bench comes with the Advance model. Storage is plentiful inside, with open shelf areas above the windscreen and on top of the dashboard. A covered stowage bin over the instrument display includes a USB charge port that is great for topping up things on the move. There are helpful door bins and partitioned spaces between the front seats for storing other items. This area is hindered slightly by the bench seat on Advance models, though it does gain an electronic parking brake to free up space.

One of the biggest incentives for switching to an electric van is the potential reduction in running costs. These savings range from fuel and tax to driving-related costs through tolls and congestion charges. Owner-operators will see lower Benefit In Kind rates too. To help alleviate any concerns about the battery, Renault applies an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty that is separate from the van’s standard three-year warranty. The latter is unlimited mileage for the first two years and limited to 100,000 miles by the third year.

The Renault Kangoo E-Tech Electric is a clean-sheet design but uses battery technology that the company is familiar with and is well-proven in the passenger car segment. The biggest plus is having fewer moving parts in an electric van, which can improve uptime and reduce maintenance costs. It still requires maintenance but far less needs to be done. There aren’t wear items such as cambelts and the only fluid you’ll need to worry about on a weekly basis is the windscreen wash. All that means the van spends less time in the garage and more time on the road.

There is only one powertrain for the Renault Kangoo E-Tech Electric. The 45kWh battery isn’t as large as some competitors’, but its size strikes a balance between range and maintaining cargo volume inside. A 90kW electric motor equates to 122 horsepower so it has decent levels of pulling power. Granted, it won’t feel as rapid as some electric cars, but it is sufficient for a van of this size and payload capacity. It has a 0-62mph time of 11.6 seconds and, despite the top speed being electronically limited to 81 miles per hour (to preserve battery range), the Renault has no issue driving at motorway speeds. Charging the Kangoo E-Tech takes a little less than six hours with a 7.4kW domestic wallbox. An optional 22kW charger is excellent for maximising public AC charge points, while the Renault can charge at up to 80kW on rapid DC chargers.

As with all electric vans the Kangoo E-Tech Electric is much smoother and quieter than a diesel equivalent. There is little difference in how the Renault drives at speed and handles compared to the diesel version, though. However, road and wind noise do start to increase with speed. The suspension is good at dealing with everything from speed bumps to inconsistent road surfaces, with light, direct steering adding to the ease of driving. Using the gear shifter to switch between energy recovery modes adjusts the severity of the braking sensation when lifting your foot off the accelerator. In its strongest setting, the van slows quickly, almost to a dead stop in urban environments, as it puts energy back into the battery.

Numerous driver assistance systems are available in the Kangoo E-Tech Electric, but many only come as an optional extra. Items such as Advanced Lane Keep Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Intervention and Traffic Sign Recognition will cost extra. The Traffic Jam and Highway Assist is a helpful addition if you spend a lot of time in traffic as it takes over the basic stopping and starting functions, but it costs £600.

The Renault Kangoo E-Tech Electric is available in two specification grades: Start and Advance. Standard equipment includes heated driver’s seat and heated windscreen, a DAB radio with Bluetooth, cruise control and an electronic speed limiter function. Other standard features include hill start assist, which holds the van when pulling away on an incline, air conditioning, electric windows and door mirrors that are heated and electrically controlled. Advance trim adds an eight-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, a reversing camera and a front passenger bench seat.

The Renault Kangoo E-Tech Electric is a good option for those looking to switch to an electric van without compromising on the practical aspects. A usable battery size, decent driving range and numerous charging options put it ahead of many competitors. While it is more costly to purchase than its petrol or diesel equivalents, the lower running costs and reduction in local emissions weigh strongly in its favour.