"Tesla of vans": Renault and Volvo Group partner on commercial EVs

Renault and the Volvo Group have established a new start-up that aims to flip the European commercial vehicle sector on its head with a range of highly modular electric vans. Called Flexis, it aims to capitalise on growth in demand for zero-emission commercial vehicles, which is expected by its creators to rise by 40% each year until 2030. Explaining its ambitions, Renault Group chief Luca de Meo said: “This is the Tesla of the commercial vehicle in a way. That's the way you have to see it.” Its first model – part of a three-van line-up teased in a press conference – will launch in 2026. Based on a bespoke skateboard architecture, it is promised by Renault Group chief Luca de Meo to “completely transform” the common perception of a van. “It’s not a white box on wheels with a diesel engine anymore,” he said. Related articles It will be a “step-in van” designed around last-mile deliveries in city centres, prioritising how efficiently it uses space as well as outright manoeuvrability. It will have a footprint roughly in line with the existing Renault Kangoo, but with a much taller roofline to give a total cargo capacity matching the Renault Trafic, in the segment above. Those tight proportions will also ensure the van has a turning circle on a par with B-segment superminis, the firm suggests. Flexis has also worked closely with logistics companies to optimise the interior packaging of its vans, with French firm the CMA CGM Group taking a 10% stake in the business. This approach was inspired by Rivian, which developed its electric van with Amazon, and the recently failed start-up Arrival – which partnered with UPS and