Renault

Renault Estafette Concept World Premiere at IAA

Renault Group is setting the stage for a new era in urban logistics with its innovative FlexEVan platform. As e-commerce continues to surge, delivery demands are skyrocketing, and city traffic regulations are tightening. It’s clear that conventional vans are no longer enough to meet the evolving needs of delivery professionals, tradespeople, and retailers. Enter Renault’s vision for the future, with the Estafette Concept, built on the cutting-edge FlexEVan platform developed in collaboration with Volvo Group and CMA CGM Group. This electric utility vehicle is specifically designed for urban environments, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and efficiency. The original Renault Estafette, which first hit the roads in 1959, was revolutionary in its own right. It was the first vehicle from Renault to move the engine and transmission to the front, creating more space in the rear for cargo. Fast forward 65 years, and the Estafette Concept is carrying on that legacy, but with modern innovations. The new version incorporates the FlexEVan electric platform, which promises to transform how delivery vans function in cities. Compact yet spacious, the Estafette Concept is designed to be easy to park, agile, and highly efficient for drivers who make frequent stops. Renault’s Estafette Concept is not just another van—it is an urban delivery solution that is both practical and futuristic. With two sliding doors for easy access and safety, it offers seamless loading and unloading. The design is compact yet functional, keeping the needs of professionals at the forefront. The sliding side doors open with a swift motion, saving time and reducing the strain on drivers’ wrists, especially during busy delivery schedules. At the rear, the van features a roll-up shutter instead of traditional doors, allowing it to be backed up close to loading docks without the need for extra clearance space. One of the most exciting aspects of the Estafette Concept is its design. According to Sandeep Bhambra, Chief Designer for Advanced Design and Concept Cars at Ampere, the aim was to make these vans stand out in urban areas, with bold, expressive looks and vibrant color schemes. Its compact size and agility, similar to a Renault Clio’s turning circle, make it ideal for city streets. But unlike many other utility vehicles, it has a taller silhouette, allowing the driver to move easily between the cockpit and the cargo area.