Renault has once again turned to its rich history for inspiration, unveiling the Estafette concept, a preview of an upcoming electric panel van that will be available in 2026. While not as overtly retro as the new 5 electric subcompact or the R17 coupe, the Estafette clearly draws design cues from the original Estafette van, a popular sight on French roads from 1959 to 1980.
Built on the FlexEVan platform, co-developed with Volvo and CMA CGM Group, the Estafette occupies a similar footprint to Renault's Kangoo. However, Renault claims it offers the agility of a Clio and a generous load capacity of 7.1 m2, not far off that of the much larger Trafic van. The van's unusually tall height of 2,590 mm allows drivers to walk upright from the cab to the rear of the cargo bay, making it convenient for loading and unloading.
A shutter door at the rear opens the full height of the van, facilitating easy access at loading bays. For deliveries, drivers can use the front side doors for unloading. Renault emphasizes the clever design of the sliding doors, which are claimed to be easier to open and close compared to traditional van doors. The straight-line retraction mechanism reduces strain on the driver's wrist. However, the need to drag large boxes through the cab might be a drawback for some.
Renault believes the Estafette's fun design and vibrant color options will help redefine the perception of vans as boring and anonymous vehicles. The interior also looks more exciting than most vans, featuring a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, a separate 12-inch touchscreen for software applications, and a pair of 10-inch vertical screens by the doors for mirror duties.
While Renault hasn't disclosed the specific electric drivetrain for the Estafette, it's likely to be optimized for urban use, requiring less power and a smaller battery compared to long-distance models. The Estafette concept showcases Renault's commitment to combining a retro-inspired design with modern electric technology, offering a practical and stylish solution for urban transportation needs.