All-New Renault Master a ‘Next-Gen, Multi-Energy Aerovan’ – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News
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Renault has sold over 3 million Master vans in Europe since 1980, and has made them in Batilly, eastern France, since the beginning. The model’s rich history and success over these 40-plus years and three generations has ranked it as a long-standing leader in its category in Europe. Renault Master vans are on roads in more than 50 countries, including several in South America since 1990.
The fourth Renault Master generation, available in the Spring of 2024, is shaping up to extend its success, according to a release.
“Our goal with the New Renault Master was to get as close as we could to the ideal van. Tradespeople, contractors and fleet managers will see a real leap forwards, a vehicle that is there for them whenever they need it, to maximize their productivity. A van they can lean on for their work, day in and day out, whatever type of energy they choose,” stated Hélène Carvalho, Renault Master program leader.
PART 1: DESIGN
THE COCKPIT DOUBLES UP AS A PROPER WORKSTATION
“We put the customer – and simplifying their daily life – at the centre of everything we did. We stopped at nothing to make sure the New Renault Master doubles up as a proper, practical, comfortable and, especially, ultra-high-quality workstation,” stated Louis Morasse, design director, LCV Range, Renault.
The New Renault Master’s high-grade interior universe is close to that in passenger vehicles. The S-shaped dashboard facing the driver adds to the spaciousness inside. The materials are classy and the 10-inch screen – which comes as standard across the line-up – adds a visually pleasing high-tech touch. The dark upholstery enhances the cocoon-like sensation in the ultra-modern cockpit. The steering wheel is from the passenger vehicle collection, and you can adjust its height and depth to find the exact right position for you. Automatic versions now have the transmission levers on the steering wheel, opening up even more space on the centre console.
The 135 litres of total storage space – a 25% increase – ranks this generation as the market leader. Everything you need will fit in the New Renault Master’s cockpit: in one of the many compartments on the dashboard, side cupholders, glove-box drawers, cab-ceiling slot and two storage tiers in the doors.
The New Renault Master effortlessly turns into an office on wheels. The back of the middle seat folds down into a desk, the base houses a slot to store a laptop, and there are USB-C ports to power devices. Every detail is intended for intensive everyday use. The non-abrasive and sturdy TEP-lined seat edges, for instance, make it easier to get in and out of the van – and will look flawless as months turn into years. The ample choice of seats includes suspension and swivelling variants, individual seats and three types of benches (two fabric and one TEP).
EXTERIOR DESIGN: A POWERFUL, REASSURING PERSONALITY
“The New Renault Master’s general bearing is reinforced by its imposing vertical grilles, horizontal LED headlamps patterns and extra-heavy-duty bumpers. We worked on even the tiniest details with Engineering to combine striking design with performance and efficiency,” said Louis Morasse, design director, LCV Range, Renault.
The New Renault Master’s show-stopping design adds strong personality, fetching looks and a modern feel to every professional’s daily duties. And it was born to write the next chapter in the Master success story.
This van also radiates dependability, durability and safety. Its massive face explains a lot of its tuck-like demeanour. And it includes Renault’s new logo and the extra-large full-LED headlamps in the signature C-shaped array around the stunning grille. A U-shaped inset below the grille can be grainy black or, at the high end of the line-up, the same colour as the body. Customers have a choice of 7 body colours as standard and over 300 special hues.
The proportions were meticulously fine-tuned to strike the right balance for each body type. The rear is narrower to optimise aerodynamics, but the rear opening and load area are remarkably large nevertheless. The rear window is asymmetrical – a typical Master feature – and the rear lights have a distinctive C-shaped pattern like the ones at the front.
A lot of work went into perceived quality and toughness. The fact that each side panel is a single part, for example, adds to the solid look – especially in the longer versions – and they are extra stiff so they will not warp. Perceived quality in the cargo area is also higher, all the way down to the chamfering, reinforcements and other details.
THE AEROVAN DESIGN ENHANCES ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The extraordinary amount of work that went into the New Renault Master’s aerodynamics puts its efficiency at the top of its class, whatever energy you use. Its Scx is more than 20% lower, and substantially below that of the previous generation and all current rivals.
Even the smallest details helped: the bonnet is shorter, the windscreen is further forward and tilted, the wing mirrors, air intake ducts in the bumper and roofline slope were streamlined, and the rear is narrower. And the sharper aerodynamics have also improved acoustic comfort in the cockpit.
As the vehicle is too large for the wind tunnel that Renault typically uses, in Saint-Cyr, the aerodynamic development studies were conducted using 83% scale models. The full-size vans were then tested in a tunnel built to assess aircraft aerodynamics.
All this work has improved efficiency in very real ways. The New Renault Master’s CO2 emissions are a substantial 39 g/km lower, and now below the 200 g/km mark. Its remarkable aerodynamics also considerably lower consumption in the electric versions with a 20% improvement on the current Master.
PART 2: THE MULTI-ENERGY PLATFORM
Regardless of the powertrain they choose, the New Renault Master customers will drive the most efficient vehicle in its category (at the time of New Master’s reveal, in November 2023). This will lower their operating costs, and their vans will be able to carry more payload (up to 2 tonnes).
All versions are built on the same assembly line, which provides a great deal of flexibility to handle customisation requests. The New Renault Master is the only vehicle in its class to be made in France: the three energy versions and all the bodies come from the same line in Batilly (near Metz, in Eastern France). The powertrains and gearboxes are made in France, the batteries are assembled in France, and 84% of the suppliers are based in France.
DIESEL BLUE DCI
Four Diesel Blue dCi powertrains, delivering 105, 130, 150 or 170 hp, are available with the New Master. They consume substantially less (1.5 litres less per 100 km on average) and release less CO2 (39 grams less per km, below 200 grams per km). The transmission can be governed by a conventional manual gearbox or a particularly efficient new 9-speed automatic EAG9 converter gearbox.
ELECTRIC
The full-electric New Renault Master versions are powered by a 96 kW or 105 kW motor, in both cases delivering 300 Nm of torque. The first runs on a 40-kWh battery and has a 180 km WLTP range, the second on an 87 kWh battery with more than 410 km WLTP range.
As a result, the New Renault Master boasts record-high payload capacity (1,625 kg in a van requiring a B-category driving licence), range (more than 410 km WLTP) and towing muscle (2.5 tonnes). Its consumption remains reasonable, at a WLTP standardised 21 kWh/100 km with the large 87 kWh battery, thanks to the battery heat management system. A 130 kW DC fast charge adds 229 km of range in 30 minutes. A 22 kW AC home charger tops up the battery from 10% to 100% in just under 4 hours.
Note: details on all the connected services in the electric versions (charge scheduling, preheating, etc.) are provided in the section on Connectivity below.
HYDROGEN
The New Renault Master is also designed to accommodate a hydrogen H2-Tech engine and fuel cell in future.
PART 3: TECHNOLOGY
A UNIQUE BRAKING SYSTEM
The novel power-assisted dynamic braking control system in the New Renault Master keeps braking effectiveness and pedal feel the same regardless of how much weight the van is carrying. It also triggers the automatic emergency braking system sooner (response time is divided by two) and enhances regeneration, extending electric vehicles’ range.
20 DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS
The New Renault Master’s set of 20 driver assistance systems maximises safety for the people in and around it. Its active safety features are on high alert, and include its lateral stability, automatic emergency braking and trailer stability assist systems. And it comes with Intelligent Speed Assist, to help the driver stay within the speed limit.
V2X FUNCTIONALITIES IN ELECTRIC VERSIONS
The New Renault Master vans will include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities. These include charging other devices from an outlet in the cockpit or load area, as well as adaptors to plug power tools, computers and other devices into charger outlets. You can also power custom-built body parts (refrigerated compartments, automatic tailgates, extra heating or air-conditioning systems, etc.) directly from the battery.
The New Renault Master will also be able to feed energy from its battery to the grid (V2G) using a bidirectional charger.
ALL THE LATEST CONNECTIVITY
The New Renault Master is digital-native van and factory-fitted with all the features to enhance its performance. The OpenR Link multimedia system – the most intuitive on the market – comes as standard with every model. It includes a 10-inch screen and wired and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections to replicate a smartphone screen. This system is also smart and scalable: it will grow to encompass new functionalities over time, with free over-the-air updates (like smartphone updates) for more than 20 calculators, for 5 years.
OpenR Link with Google built-in: more connected and more efficient
This is the first time the ultra-modern OpenR Link system with Google built-in capabilities is available* in an LCV. Meaning drivers will have access to Google Maps navigation capabilities, the Google Play app catalogue and the voice-controlled Google Assistant directly integrated in the dashboard**.
The New Renault Master drivers can connect the system to their Google account – like a smartphone – for an optimal online experience. The modular interface displays Google Maps by default and you can add two widgets (the choice includes Music, Telephone, Google Assistant, Vehicle, Date and time, Tyre pressure and more). Then you can use the menu bar to the left of the screen to effortlessly navigate around the universes (Home screen/Google Maps, Music, Apps, Vehicle). The cockpit also has a wireless smartphone charger to avoid cable cluttering.
Google Assistant for extra convenience throughout the working day
OpenR Link is simple, intuitive and works like a tablet. You can interact with it using the touchscreen or your voice via Google Assistant (for instance if you want to listen to music). You can also use this hands-free virtual assistant to listen to the news, check the weather forecast, adjust the air condition or switch the de-icer on or off, for example, without taking your eyes off the road. If you link your Google Account to OpenR Link, Google Assistant can also be proactive – for instance suggesting a destination based on your habits.
Handy apps for pros
Available from Google Play, specific applications prove highly beneficial for daily professional use:
Vivaldi browser, for Internet access, and the ability to view emails and attachments on the 10″ screen, edit documents, watch a tutorial on YouTube during a lunch break. The 10″ screen combined with the Vivaldi browser makes this an effective alternative to using a smartphone. Vivaldi’s home page is set up with direct links to Gmail, Outlook, Pack Office and Renault e-guide for added convenience. The user can personalize its favourites for quick access just like on a tablet or computer.
EasyPark for public car park payment solutions and experiencing simplicity and efficiency in parking solutions. With this app, users pay the accurate parking fee directly on the OpenR Link multimedia screen. Begin parking with a simple click on the screen and the process seamlessly concludes when the vehicle is detected moving.
Not forgetting Waze, for regular members of the community.
And that’s not all: new apps are constantly being added to the catalogue.
OpenR Link with Convertor Companion
Using the OpenR Link multimedia system with Google built-in capabilities also opens the door to creating custom apps for converted vehicles. Three apps are available at the launch: one for fire brigades, one for mobile workshop conversions and one for refrigerated vehicle conversions.
With these apps, developed by the conversion professionals themselves, the New Renault Master drivers can check and supervise their custom features directly on their OpenR Link multimedia system’s 10-inch screen. There are several advantages: the driver interface is better (it is clearer and controls are displayed more prominently on the colour screen), the system is simpler and safer, it only displays the information that the driver needs, and it can update automatically over the air. And you don’t need to attach a second screen to the dashboard.
Google Maps, the standard for the pros
Among other amenities, Google Maps provides real-time traffic information and displays points of interest (favourite restaurants or suppliers, including their opening hours, telephone numbers, etc.), it can be voice-controlled, and its maps are constantly being updated. If you connect your Google account to your user profile, you can also retrieve your saved places.
My Renault: remote services to stay one step ahead
To take interaction and proaction to the next level, you can also connect remotely to the New Renault Master using the My Renault app, for a variety of reasons:
- To locate your van on a map or, if it is in a large car park for example, make it flash its lights or make a sound.
- To keep track of its maintenance schedule.
- To receive a warning if the vehicle is unlocked (which is especially useful as vans carry valuable items).
Additional connected services from Mobilize
Mobilize provides other connected services for the New Renault Master:
- Mobilize Connected Insurance, to modulate insurance premiums according to the distance you drive or your driving style, in order to optimise costs**.
- Mobilize Fleet Connect**, a web-based platform and app to optimise fleet management in real time – with features including consumption monitoring, geolocation, geofencing and eco-driving challenges – to simplify operations, respond faster and save money.
- Mobilize Fleet Data, which supplies raw data from vehicles (distance driven, maintenance alerts, geolocation, etc.) to feed into other management tools.
The New Renault Master’s native connectivity enables it to share this data.
EV-exclusive connectivity
The New Renault Master in its electric versions comes with several exclusive functionalities – which, again, provide a user experience that looks and feels a lot like the one on a smartphone. This will make the transition to electric mobility simpler than ever.
Google Maps considers your stated preferences and optimises itineraries accordingly. And you can use electric vehicle route planning to plan drives in an electric vehicle that include charging stops, filter charging stations according to your preferred payment method or power rating, set your home and workplace as charging points, and decide when the battery charges and the air conditioning switches on and off, to optimise costs and keep the temperature just right in the cockpit.
The My Renault app and its several remote services specifically for electric vehicles keep the New Renault Master – a high-tech vehicle that is always ready to help – connected to your digital ecosystem:
- It displays remaining range, to track discharging in real time.
- It displays charging stations near you or near a selected location.
- You can schedule charging remotely (for example to only charge the van during off-peak hours).
- You can set preheating times, so the cockpit is at the right temperature when you start your day (without affecting range if the van is plugged in) – which is especially convenient for professionals who start work very early in the morning.
- It displays charge status and a charging date log.
- As it includes Mobilize Charge Pass, you can pay for charges without having to carry a large number of cards, across Europe’s largest charging network (over 500,000 charging points in 25 countries, half of which charge at 22 kW). Passholders can also enjoy preferential rates at motorway-side Ionity stations (more than 2,600 charging points) if they take out an optional subscription.
Lastly, several additional Mobilize services are available to make your life easier in an electric New Renault Master van:
- Mobilize Power Solutions, which simplifies the switch to electric mobility with made-to-measure charging solutions on company premises, on the road and even in employees’ homes. The services for professionals include assessments, charging terminal installation and operation, energy optimisation and maintenance. Users can pay for charges using their Mobilize Business Pass and the fleet manager can monitor consumption remotely and pay on a monthly basis.
- Smart Charge**, which optimises charging based on the time of day and source of electricity, to minimise costs and reduce carbon footprints when charging at home – with no action required from the driver. Besides lowering electricity bills, it can earn the user rewards for flexibility.
*as an option
** depending on the country
*** Google Maps directions and navigation features may be limited depending on vehicle type.
PART 4: NEXT-LEVEL LCV ESSENTIALS
The New Renault Master will launch with a full line-up covering all professional requirements. It will comprise 40 silhouettes ranging from 11 to 22 cubic metres, with a 40 mm wider opening at the sliding side door and 100 mm longer load areas – the longest in the category. Its greater payload capacity, length, width and volume make it the ideal van and redefine convenience in its class.
There are 20 conversion bases available from production plants, where workshops can handle a number of alterations directly (adding tippers, deepening cockpits, adding volume, etc.). This catalogue of factory-mounted kits also shortens turnaround times and simplifies transport logistics.
The shorter wheelbase and redesigned front axle provide unprecedented manoeuvrability, including an outstanding 1.5 metre shorter turning diameter. The New Renault Master takes handling in cities to new heights of convenience. Customers can even choose an L3 version for city driving (L2 is the base vehicle, L3 is available with front-wheel and rear-wheel drives, and L4 has a rear-wheel drive).
As with all the electric vehicles in the range, the New Master incorporates elements of Renault’s human first program, designed to help emergency teams intervene on the vehicle in the event of an accident:
- A QR code for firefighters is integrated into the bodywork to guide them as quickly as possible in their response;
- the fireman’s access allows the high-voltage battery to be flooded with electrical versions to avoid any risk of fire starting;
- the SD switch disconnects the battery so that work can be carried out on the vehicle in complete safety;
- The battery is housed in a special, reinforced frame that protects it from all types of impact.
The New Renault Master, which will be available starting in spring 2024, is designed to go further, carry more and cost less. It is the perfect next-generation, multi-energy Aerovan.
Source: https://rvbusiness.com/all-new-renault-master-a-next-gen-multi-energy-aerovan/
