The Renault Master EM is a fully electric light commercial vehicle platform introduced in 2010 and updated through 2023. It features a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor, lithium‑ion traction battery packs (33–52 kWh), and single-speed reduction gearbox. In standard form it delivers 50–75 kW (68–102 PS) and 225–270 Nm of torque, with later variants offering enhanced range and power output.
Fitted exclusively to the Master Van (X73/X83 chassis codes) in panel van and chassis cab configurations, the Master EM was engineered for urban logistics and last-mile delivery with zero tailpipe emissions. Regenerative braking, thermal battery management, and ISO 26262-compliant power electronics enabled compliance with EU safety and emissions directives, including full exemption from CO₂-based taxation under Euro 6d-equivalent electric vehicle provisions.
One documented concern is premature degradation of the lithium‑ion traction battery in high-ambient-temperature operation, highlighted in Renault Service Bulletin 6030E. This issue stems from thermal stress on early-generation cells and insufficient active cooling in pre-2018 packs. From 2018, Renault introduced revised battery modules with enhanced thermal management and updated battery management system (BMS) calibration.
All production years 2010–2023 meet EU Directive 2007/46/EC and Regulation (EU) 2018/858 for zero-emission vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EV/4421).
The Renault Master EM is a battery-electric drivetrain engineered for light commercial use (2010–2023). It combines a permanent-magnet synchronous motor with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver instant torque and silent urban operation. Designed to meet EU zero-emission vehicle standards, it eliminates tailpipe emissions while supporting commercial fleet decarbonisation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Motor type | Permanent-magnet synchronous motor | |
| Fuel type | Electric (battery-powered) | |
| Configuration | Single motor, rear-wheel drive | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Power output | 50–75 kW (68–102 PS) | |
| Torque | 225–270 Nm (instant) | |
| Battery capacity | 33 kWh (2010–2017); 52 kWh (2018–2023) | |
| Emissions standard | Zero tailpipe emissions (EU ZEV compliant) | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled motor and power electronics; air-cooled (pre-2018) / liquid-cooled (post-2018) battery | |
| Transmission | Single-speed reduction gearbox (ratio 10.5:1) | |
| Charging | AC Type 2 (7.4 kW); DC CCS (50 kW, 2018+) | |
| Dry weight (powertrain) | 198 kg (motor + gearbox) |
The electric drivetrain provides instant torque ideal for stop-start urban delivery but requires adherence to 24-month high-voltage system inspections per Renault guidelines. Pre-2018 models with air-cooled 33 kWh packs are susceptible to accelerated battery degradation in ambient temperatures above 35 °C; post-2018 52 kWh variants feature liquid-cooled modules and improved BMS algorithms. Use only OEM-approved charging equipment to prevent DC fast-charging-induced cell stress. Regenerative braking reduces brake wear but requires periodic inspection of brake-by-wire integration. Battery health diagnostics must be performed via Renault Clip or equivalent OEM tool to assess state-of-health (SoH) accurately.
Oil Specs: No engine oil required. Gearbox uses Renault TR-01 synthetic fluid (Renault TIS EM-X73).
Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions certified under EU Regulation (EU) 2018/858 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EV/4421).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 18487 standards. 75 kW output available only on 52 kWh (2018–2023) variants (Renault Group PT‑2022).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs EM-X73, SIB 6030E
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EV/4421)
ISO 18487:2020 Electric Vehicle Power Measurement Standards
The Renault Master EM was used exclusively in Renault's Master Van platform with rear-wheel drive and longitudinal powertrain mounting. This electric variant received chassis-specific adaptations—reinforced rear subframes for battery mounting and modified suspension geometry in the X73 (2010–2014) and X83 (2014–2023) generations—and from 2018 the updated Master Z.E. adopted a 52 kWh liquid-cooled battery pack and CCS DC fast charging, creating interchange limits. No cross-manufacturer licensing was applied. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the powertrain code on the vehicle compliance plate (driver’s door jamb) and the high-voltage service label near the charge port (Renault TIS EM-X73). The 7th VIN digit is 'E' for electric variants. Pre-2018 models feature a 33 kWh air-cooled pack with blue charge port surround; post-2018 units have a 52 kWh liquid-cooled pack with grey surround and CCS combo inlet. Critical differentiation from ICE Master: EM variants lack exhaust system, fuel tank, and engine bay combustion components. Battery and inverter part numbers must match production date—pre-2018 BMS firmware is incompatible with post-2018 hardware due to communication protocol changes (Renault SIB 6030E).
The Master EM's primary reliability risk is traction battery degradation in pre-2018 air-cooled variants, with elevated incidence in vehicles operated in ambient temperatures above 35 °C or subjected to frequent DC fast charging. Renault internal data from 2019 indicated a notable share of early packs requiring replacement before 80,000 km in southern European fleets, while UK DVSA records show occasional MOT failures linked to 12V auxiliary battery faults and regenerative braking system errors. Thermal stress and inconsistent charging practices accelerate cell imbalance, making battery health monitoring and climate-aware usage critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2015–2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT MASTER-EM.
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