The Renault Kangoo E-Tech is considered the original small electric van, helping bring affordable electrification to mainstream businesses across the UK. It has established itself as a durable, versatile and economical small van, with the previous version on sale for a decade.

Key highlights

Renault offers only one 45kWh battery option for the Kangoo E-Tech, as it reckons putting in anything bigger would too heavily compromise space and payload. There are, however, two body styles - the standard Kangoo van and Kangoo Maxi - as well as two trim levels called Start and Advance. All versions can accept a Euro pallet sideways as well as feature an ‘Easy Inside Rack’, an interior roof rack system that can hold objects up to 2.5m in length off the floor, freeing space up for other items. Importantly, the rack system folds flat against the inside of the roof when it’s not needed.

Performance and range

The 45kWh battery and motor has a 0-62mph time of 11.6 seconds and offers a range of up to 186 miles, with three levels of regenerative braking that can be adjusted via the gear lever. The standard van offers between 3.3 and 3.9m³ of storage space, while the longer version provides 4.2 to 4.9m³ of load.

Tech specs 

Renault Kangoo E-Tech

• Battery: 45kWh
• Range: 186 miles
• Load capacity: 3.3 - 4.9m³
• Payload: 615kg
• Max charging speed: 80kW

Similar models 

The Mercedes-Benz Citan and Nissan Townstar are similar offerings because they were both developed in partnership with the Kangoo E-Tech. The Citroen e-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Partner, Toyota Proace City Electric and Vauxhall Combo Electric are four other rivals that share lots in common but are all worthy of consideration.