Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards 2026: Best Large Electric Van

Priced from £42,500 (excl VAT and PiVG) Range 255–285 miles (WLTP combined) CO2 emissions 0g/km Load space 10.8–14.8m3 Payload Up to 1504kg Power 138bhp Torque 221lb ft

The arrival of serious new contenders in the large electric van market means standing still is no longer enough. Yet despite fresh competition, most notably from the new Farizon SV, the Renault Master E-Tech retains its position at the top of the class for 2026.

When Renault re-engineered the Master as a ground-up electric van, it addressed the shortcomings that had previously held large EVs back: limited range, modest payload and compromised usability. The result remains one of the most convincing electric workhorses on sale.

An official WLTP combined range of up to 285 miles still sets the benchmark in the segment, and crucially, it translates into strong real-world usability. Drivers can complete a full day’s work, and often more, without worrying about range, even when factoring in changing weather conditions and heavy loads.

Charging performance is also well judged for a van of this size. It can be plugged in at home, charging overnight without a problem, while 22kW AC charging means it’ll top up surprisingly quickly at a suitably equipped depot — a full charge will take just over four and a half hours. Rapid charging capability at up to 130kW also allows the battery to be topped up quickly during breaks in the working day, helping to keep downtime to a minimum.

Payload is where many large electric vans struggle, but the Master E-Tech continues to impress. In 3.5-tonne form, it can comfortably carry more than a tonne, while 4.0-tonne variants offer genuinely eye-catching load capacity. Few rivals combine this level of carrying ability with such a substantial driving range.

The load area itself is practical and well-proportioned, with generous door apertures and thoughtful access that make daily operation straightforward. In the cab, Renault has created a modern yet durable workspace, anchored by a clear infotainment system and logical physical controls. It feels like a van designed for long shifts rather than short urban hops.

Safety is well covered, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating and a broad suite of driver assistance systems fitted as standard, providing reassurance for operators and fleets.

The Farizon SV deserves credit for bringing fresh thinking and competitive specifications to the class. However, as a complete package — range, payload, safety, usability and, crucially, dealer support — the Renault Master E-Tech remains the more rounded and confidence-inspiring choice.

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