PARIS -- Renault has launched its second generation of compact full-electric vans with the Kangoo E-Tech, with a range of 285 km (177 miles).
But while the first-generation electric Kangoo, called the Kangoo Z.E., largely had the market to itself when it was introduced in 2011, the new version will compete with compact vans from four rival Stellantis brands: Citroen, Fiat, Opel/Vauxhall and Peugeot (and a Toyota-branded variant).
The Kangoo E-Tech will start deliveries early in 2023, Renault said at the Paris auto show, where it was revealed to the public this week. Prices will start at 33,600 euros in France for a base panel profession version. There will also be passenger versions, which start at 37,000 euros.
The current Kangoo was launched in 2021, but was without a full-electric variant until now.
Renault will build the Kangoo E-Tech at its factory in Maubeuge, northern France, along with variants for Mercedes (T-Class for passenger versions; Citan for professional ones) and Nissan (Townstar/NV250). The vans are the first full EVs to be built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance's CMF-C/D platform.
Renault says it has invested 450 million euros to prepare the factory to build the vans, as well as the coming Renault 4 full-electric small SUV, also revealed at the Paris show as the Renault 4ever Trophy concept.