Renault Master Z.E. Tipper vs Vauxhall Movano-e Tipper

Tipper vans have long been favoured by tradespeople working in light construction or landscaping, as they make it much more convenient to transport and unload building materials, construction or garden waste and heavy equipment. The popularity of the tipper van, combined with our increasing awareness of the climate crisis, has led many mainstream van manufacturers to convert their most beloved tipper models into electric variants. Two such electric conversions are the Renault Master Z.E. Tipper and the Vauxhall Movano-e Tipper.

However, the push for more carbon neutral options in the commercial van sector means that there are now countless electric vans to choose from. Whilst this is ultimately good for the planet, it can nonetheless be difficult to decide what type of tipper van would be best suited to your specific requirements. Although both of the vans discussed in this review 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 about the peaks and pitfalls of each of these electric vehicles.

Engines and Spec

The Master Z.E. Tipper combines the specs of a traditional diesel van with the economic value of an electric vehicle. Not only is it an efficient electric model – with quick charging capabilities and a generous driving range of 126 miles – but the fact that it’s kitted out with an R75 electric motor means that this is a van designed to combat soaring fuel costs. A 57kW power output allows the Master Z.E. Tipper to cruise through clean air zones with ease.

By contrast, the Movano-e Tipper is available with a 90kW motor and a choice of either a 37kWh or 70kWh battery – which offer a driving range of 72 miles or 139 miles, respectively. Vauxhall claims that the Movano-e can go from a 0 to 80% charge in an hour on a 50kW rapid charger, and between 6 and 12 hours on a more common 7kW wall box charger – ideal if you’re charging overnight.

In terms of payload, despite an increase in recent models the Master Z.E. Tipper capacity doesn’t quite match up to that of the diesel Master. Nonetheless, for the single-cab front-wheel drive tipper, there is a maximum payload of 1,714kg on offer – a solid figure of those looking for a multi-functional, mid-weight eco-friendly van. On the other hand, the Movano-e Tipper boasts a payload of 2,100kg, and the load space is in no way compromised as the battery is located beneath the floor.

Interior

Taking a look inside the cab of each van, both have a number of features that are worth praising, as well as a few questionable alterations. The Master Z.E. Tipper is unfortunately not quite as refined as its diesel counterpart, and feels more like a slightly rushed electric conversion rather than a full redesign. The most obvious difference is the lack of engine noise in the electric van’s cab, which is typically a positive thing, but in this case only emphasises the sound of the road. That being said, the Master Z.E. is still a comfortable ride with impressive handling capabilities, and is a great choice for city driving.

Moving onto the Movano-e Tipper, inside this electric van is comfortable, spacious and quiet with plenty of storage options. Much like other Vauxhall LCV models, the Movano-e Tipper benefits from both Vauxhall Connect and then MyVauxhall app. VauxhallConnect grants drivers access to features such as the van’s remaining charge, whereas the MyVauxhall app displays useful information such as nearby charging stations. There is also Live Navigation which provides real-time traffic information.

The Verdict

While both the Renault Master Z.E. Tipper and Vauxhall Movano-e Tipper are both full of great features, the choice of which van to buy will ultimately come down to your preferences and the requirements of your business. At the very least, regardless of which you choose, you can rest assured that you are choosing an environmentally-friendly, zero-emissions tipper 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.