Virgin Media O2 to deploy 101 Renault Master e-Tech vans
The Master e-Tech vans were chosen for what Virgin Media O2 has called ‘two decisive advantages’: their range (up to 285 miles on a single charge) and their availability in the L2H2 format. The E-Tech itself has a 105kW motor with an 87kWh battery, with Renault stating it can receive up to 142 miles of charge in around 30 minutes when plugged into a DC fast charger.
The telecoms giant has said the format’s rear headroom and manouverable wheelbase are ideally suited to the way it plans to convert the vans. This ‘comprehensive conversion package’ includes “full rear racking, a workbench, additional lighting, an inverter power system providing 240V power, a key-out system, ladder loaders and a solar panel.”
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.”
Justin Costello, Head of Fleet, Renault Group UK, added: “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.”
The new order follows an earlier purchase of 280 Vauxhall e-Vivaros back in 2021 – the brand’s first electric fleet additions. At the time, this also saw the launch of Virgin Media O2’s first EV chargers from Liberty Charge; all part of a wider plan to eventually electrify the company’s 4,300-strong fleet by 2030.
Fast forward to the present day, and there’s no mention of this plan; instead, the company has only said the new EVs will ‘support the company’s net zero carbon emissions goal by the end of 2040’ – suggesting a rollback of its early ambition of full fleet electrification by 2030, although this is not confirmed.
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