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If you’re looking for a van with increased storage and simple loading and unloading of objects, acquiring a dropside variant makes for an astute choice of light commercial vehicle. Dropside variants of vans feature a large cargo bed at the rear of a vehicle, with sides that are able to fold up and down easily, making it ideal for transporting heavy of awkwardly-shaped objects without complication.
Mercedes-Benz and Renault are two well-regarded vehicle manufacturers who, due to European emission regulations and new clean zones in urban areas, are producing electric versions of their most popular diesel vehicles. Mercedes-Benz have electrified the popular Sprinter into the e-Sprinter, whilst Renault’s Master becomes the Master Z.E. (Z.E. standing for zero emission). Both of these vehicles are available in dropside variants.
Saving money and rising above any emission-zone complications, as well as being an in-vogue choice for a business’s reputation, electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly good choice for commercial usage. Read on to learn about how the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Dropside and Renault Master Z.E. Dropside compare, how each vehicle can suit you, and where both vans are available to finance at a reasonable price.
Engines and Spec
The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Dropside boasts a well-sized 55kWh battery which has a driving range of 96 miles from a full charge. It could be argued that this is a disappointing mileage, but the eSprinter is compatible with multiple fast charging options. For example, a 20kW charge can bring it up to 80% in two hours and an 80kW fast charging port can do the same in 30 minutes. Without fast charging capabilities, however, the eSprinter will take around 8 hours to charge from a 7.4kw wall box.
The Renault Master Z.E. Dropside, on the other hand, has a 33kWh battery which has a 75 mile range from a full charge. Whilst the van can charge its battery to 100% in six hours, the battery range somewhat constricts the Master Z.E. to inter-city driving, especially when it lacks the same fast-charging capabilities as the eSprinter.
Usefully for the Renault, however, the fact the battery is stored underneath the floor means that its payload is entirely unaffected and it stands at a very impressive 1490kg, ideal for a dropside variant. The Mercedes eSprinter only has a payload of 731kg, almost half of that of the Renault.
The eSprinter is nonetheless an impressive vehicle to drive and boasts electric power steering, meaning that the van is packed with technologically-advanced safety features such as active lane-keeping assist and crosswind assist. The amount of torque available from standstill also makes the Mercedes-Benz very nimble and nippy in its acceleration, ideal for efficient city driving.
The Renault isn’t as technologically advanced as the Mercedes-Benz, but the Master Z.E. is incredibly versatile in terms of the variety of wheelbases, body lengths, and roof heights available within variants. This allows you to truly customize the van to your specific commercial needs.
Interior
The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Dropside has a comfortable and luxurious interior that one would expect from such a distinguished brand. With a dual front passenger seat, a heated seat for the driver, and air conditioning, the eSprinter is always able to keep you and your passengers warm and comfortable.
As mentioned earlier, the safety features such as crosswind assist, attention assist, and autonomous emergency braking are industry-leading make driving stress-free and easy in a variety of commercial contexts. Features such as keyless start, ply-lined loading area, and mobile connectivity via the Mercedes Pro Connect app make the interior experience of the vehicle both practical and thoughtful.
The Renault Master Z.E. Dropside mirrors the eSprinter with a similar decadence in its interior’s comfort and technological features. The cab is notably spacious, with storage to boot; there are multiple high-volume gloveboxes, deep door compartments, and a stowage area underneath the passenger seat. With lumbar support, the interior feels comfortable yet wholly durable also.
In addition, the Master Z.E. boasts a heated door mirror, a DAB radio, bluetooth and USB capabilities, as well as helpful practical additions, such the optional availability of the tail lift. This compounds the sheer versatility of the Renault.
The Verdict
Overall, both the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter Dropside and Renault Master Z.E. Dropside are excellent vans for a wide range of commercial uses. Whilst perhaps lacking in mileage, the eSprinter has useful fast-charging capabilities, excellent technological features, and is comfortable to drive. On the other hand, the Renault, whilst constricted somewhat by its mileage, has a fantastic payload, handles difficult corners with distinction, and is versatile in the availability of different wheelbases, body lengths, and more.
Both of these vans are available on Vanaways in a variety of variants, including the Dropside. Alongside the Mercedes-Benz and Renault, many electric and diesel vans are available at Vanaways.
Vanaways provides free, fast, nationwide delivery of new and used vans, all with warranty and breakdown cover as well as flexible financing options.
Visit our website to see the many vans available from Vanaways, or if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by emailing enquiries@vanaways.co.uk or calling 0117 428 7721.
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