Virgin Media O2 is introducing 101 Renault Master E-Tech electric vans to support engineers maintaining its nationwide broadband network.
The electric large vans will be used by network engineers working across the UK, helping the operator move towards its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Supplied through leasing partner Ayvens, with Lookers acting as the supplying retailer, the vans are expected to cover around 13,000 miles per year during a planned five-year operating cycle.
Each vehicle has been converted into a mobile engineering workspace, featuring full rear racking, a workbench, additional lighting, a 240V inverter power system, ladder loaders, a key-out system and a solar panel.
Virgin Media O2 selected the Renault Master E-Tech following a competitive evaluation, citing its 285-mile WLTP range and the availability of an L2H2 body style as key advantages.
The medium-wheelbase, medium-roof configuration provides the rear headroom engineers need to work inside the van while maintaining manoeuvrability for urban streets and tight access locations.
Michael Brown, head of fleet and EV propositions at Virgin Media O2, said: “Our Network Engineers need vehicles that can support them wherever they’re working, whether busy city centres or rural locations. The Renault Master E-Tech electric offered the range we need, along with the right configuration to support our engineers on the road and on site.”
The Renault Master E-Tech electric uses a 105kW electric motor producing 300Nm of torque and an 87kWh battery delivering up to 285 miles of WLTP range. DC fast charging can add up to 142 miles of range in around 30 minutes.
Justin Costello, Head of Fleet at Renault UK, said the order demonstrates the growing real-world capability of electric vans for demanding fleet operations.
The Renault Master E-Tech electric is priced from £37,500 plus VAT after the UK Plug-in Van Grant.
