Nissan Unveils All-New Electric Van for European Market
Nissan, the Japanese partner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, is making waves in the European market with its latest offering – the Interstar-e. While the company is known for its focus on battery electric technology, it couldn’t resist the allure of a turbo diesel engine for this particular vehicle.
Large vans have become a staple in Europe and the United Kingdom, much like full-size trucks in the US. And for most customers, the preferred powertrain option is a force-fed diesel engine. These engines offer excellent low-end torque and superior fuel economy compared to turbocharged gasoline engines.
To bring the Interstar-e to life, Nissan has partnered with France-based Société de Véhicules Automobiles de Batilly (SOVAB). SOVAB is responsible for the production of the all-new Master and Interstar vans, with a daily production capacity of 740 vehicles. Nissan is confident in the quality of its Master van, offering a warranty that covers the first 160,000 kilometers (nearly 100,000 miles) or five years of ownership.
But what sets the Interstar-e apart is its electric option. Nissan is proud to introduce its first-ever large van with a 100% electric drivetrain. The Interstar-e comes with an impressive eight-year warranty for the high-voltage battery. There are two battery options available – a 40 kilowatt-hour version with a driving range of approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles), and an 87-kWh version with a range of over 460 kilometers (286 miles) in the WLTP. Charging the standard battery from 10% to 100% takes around four hours on alternating current, while the high-capacity battery can be charged up to 252 kilometers (157 miles) in just 30 minutes using direct current.
Nissan understands that time is of the essence for businesses, which is why they have equipped the Interstar-e with a DC rapid charging system. This feature will undoubtedly be popular with customers in the EU and the UK who value efficiency and productivity.
The Interstar-e is designed primarily for inner-city driving, boasting a payload capacity of up to 1,600 kilograms (3,527 pounds) – significantly less than its internal combustion counterpart, which can handle nearly two metric tons. However, both versions of the Interstar can tow up to 2,500 kilograms (5,512 pounds), making it a versatile option for various business needs.
Nissan has also made several improvements to the Interstar’s overall performance and functionality. The turning diameter has been reduced to 1.5 meters, allowing for better maneuverability in tight spaces. The forward emergency braking system now reacts twice as fast as the previous generation, ensuring enhanced safety on the road. The Interstar will be available in different factory-built conversions, including Box Van, Dropside, and Tipper, catering to a wide range of industries.
Additional features of the Interstar-e include a heated windshield and heated seats with durable covers, Trailer Sway Assist for added stability while towing, a 40-millimeter wider side door for easier access, a 100-millimeter longer load area, and class-leading aerodynamics. Although specific details about the diesel engine sourced from Renault are scarce, Nissan’s reputation for quality and performance gives customers confidence in the Interstar-e’s powertrain.
With the Interstar-e, Nissan is once again proving its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. This electric van is set to revolutionize the European market, offering businesses an efficient and eco-friendly solution for their transportation needs.
(Photo: Nissan)
Renault Unveils the 2024 Master XDD: More Power, More Options
Renault, the renowned French automaker, has just unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 Master XDD. This new model year promises to deliver even more power and options for drivers. One of the standout features of the Master XDD is its 2.0-liter Blue dCi engine. Available in four versions – 105 ps, 130 ps, 150 ps, and 170 ps – this diesel engine is sure to impress.
But power isn’t the only thing that sets the Master XDD apart. Renault offers two transmission options for this model: a manual transmission and a torque-converter automatic with nine forward gears. This means that drivers can choose the option that best suits their preferences and driving style.
In addition to the diesel options, Renault also introduces the Master E-Tech. This model boasts impressive power with either 96 kW or 105 kW, equivalent to 129 and 141 mechanical horses. Both of the E-Tech’s drive units offer a torque of 300 Nm (221 pound-feet), ensuring a smooth and powerful driving experience.
While pricing details have yet to be released, it is expected that the 2024 Master XDD will be priced similarly to the previous model year. In France, the current Interstar starts at 39,435 euros without VAT or 47,322 euros with VAT. With the current exchange rates, this translates to approximately 42,435 and 50,925 freedom eagles.
With its impressive power, versatile transmission options, and competitive pricing, the 2024 Master XDD is set to make waves in the automotive industry. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new release from Renault.
