Peugeot e-Boxer Dropside vs. Renault Master Z.E. Dropside

For many years, the dropside van has been a staple of the commercial van market for gardeners, landscapers and tradespeople of all industries, offering its users a generous payload and plenty of practicality. And as we continue to move into a more environmentally-conscious age, many mainstream van manufacturers have been converting dropside models that drivers know and love into electric vehicles. Two great examples of this are the Peugeot e-Boxer Dropside and the Renault Master Z.E. Dropside. Both of their diesel counterparts have seen widespread popularity since their release, and this popularity is only set to continue with the EV models.

However, in light of the fact that there has been such a push for more carbon neutral options in the commercial van sector, there are now countless electric vans to choose from. Whilst this is only a positive thing, it can nonetheless be difficult to decide what type of dropside van would be best suited to your specific requirements. Although both vans have a lot to offer, it’s important to know all of the key differences between them to help you make an informed decision. Read on to find out more.

Engines and Spec

The design of a dropside van consists of a large, open load space with hinged sides and tailboards, allowing them to be dropped below floor level for easy loading. As a result, many tradespeople opt for dropside vans because of the fantastic payload capacity they offer over, for example, a tipper van. As such, both the Peugeot e-Boxer Dropside and Renault Master Z.E Dropside rack up a payload of over 1000kg – both have their battery packs located beneath the floor, meaning that their load spaces aren’t at all impacted.

On the subject of battery packs, the Peugeot e-Boxer Dropside is fitted with a 75kWh battery, which can achieve an impressive driving range of 154 miles on a full charge – an incredible number when compared to other EVs of its size. Charging to full can take up to 12 hours, but this is easily doable if you’re charging overnight. By contrast, the Renault Master Z.E.’s 33kWh battery manages a 75 mile range and a maximum speed of 62mph, making it more of a city van.

Interior

Both vans deliver the quality that you’ve come to expect from a Peugeot or Renault cab. The Peugeot e-Boxer Dropside’s interior boasts plenty of storage space, ideal for stashing everything you need for a day out on the job. One unique feature is the fact that all of the information typically found on the instrument cluster has been moved to a display on the rearview mirror – indicating the remaining range, battery percentage and current driving mode. Although it might take a little getting used to, it’s convenient to be able to glance over from time to time. The touchscreen display comes as standard, featuring an integrated navigation system, and the gearbox has been replaced by three buttons for easy switching between Drive, Neutral and Reverse.

Moving onto the Renault Master Z.E Dropside, you will also find a highly functional interior with plenty of storage space. This spacious cab promises a comfortable large van experience, with simplistic handling making it that much easier to drive. In terms of tech, you can expect as standard a DAB radio with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, an adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and electric, heated door mirrors. Combine this with rear corner pillars in the load space and an optional tail lift, the Master Z.E. Dropside will no doubt appeal to a wide range of customers looking for a zero-emissions

The Verdict

While both the Peugeot eBoxer Dropside and the Renault Master Z.E. Dropside are packed full of great features, choosing the best commercial van will ultimately come down to your preferences and the needs of your business. At the very least, with either van you can rest assured that you are choosing an environmentally-friendly, zero-emissions dropside van that will reduce your running costs and carbon footprint.

If the choice between the two comes down to cost for you, then worry not as both vans are available to buy on finance lease from Van Sales UK at highly competitive prices. We supply a vast range of new diesel and electric vans in a variety of body lengths and models. If you’d like to find out more about what either van has to offer, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have and point you in the right direction towards the perfect van for you.