Virgin Media O2 in Britain is hitting the road with 101 new Renault Master E-Tech electric vans to support the company’s net zero carbon emissions goal by the end of 2040.
The new vans will be used across the country by the operator’s Network Engineers who are responsible for maintaining Virgin Media O2’s broadband network, 24/7, 365 days a year.
Specified to meet the demands of frontline engineering work, each van features a comprehensive conversion package including full rear racking, a workbench, additional lighting, an inverter power system providing 240V power, a key-out system, ladder loaders and a solar panel, creating a true mobile workspace ready for everyday use.
Supplied via Ayvens, with Lookers acting as the supplying retailers, each Master E-Tech electric is expected to cover an average of 13,000 miles per year over a planned five-year operating cycle, supporting a busy schedule of essential maintenance work.
The Master E-Tech electric was selected following a competitive evaluation, standing out thanks to two decisive advantages: exceptional range capability of up to 285 miles on a single charge, and its availability in the highly sought-after L2H2 (medium length, medium roof) configuration that offers the ideal blend of load carrying capability and manoeuvrability.
Crucially, the L2H2 format delivers the rear headroom engineers need to work comfortably, while also offering a more manoeuvrable wheelbase that makes it easier to operate in towns and city centres, including parking on side streets and accessing tighter urban 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.
“This is part of our journey to electrify our fleets and is one of the ways Virgin Media O2 is working to reduce its impact on the planet by cutting carbon and achieving net zero emissions by the end of 2040.”
Justin Costello, Head of Fleet, Renault Group UK, said: “Virgin Media O2’s decision to introduce over 100 Master E-Tech vans underlines how our electric LCVs are now delivering real-world capability for demanding fleet operations. With outstanding range, impressive practicality and a highly usable working environment, the Master E-Tech electric is an excellent fit for businesses that operate nationwide and need their vehicles to perform day in, day out. We’re delighted to support Virgin Media O2 as it continues its transition to EVs.”
The multi-award-winning Renault Master continues to set the benchmark in the large van segment, with its enhanced payload capability, load spaces ranging from 11 to 20 cubic metres, and a user-focused design that delivers everyday convenience for operators.
The Master E-Tech electric’s 105kW/300Nm electric motor is paired with an 87kWh battery delivering a WLTP range of up to 285 miles, while DC fast charging provides up to 142 miles of range in just 30 minutes. This ensures operators benefit from flexible charging options, whether that’s convenient overnight charging or rapid top-ups on the road to keep vehicles moving between jobs.