Electric Study: Renault E-Space as the Van of the Future
Renault unveiled its new electric van concept named E-Space at the 2026 Paris Auto Show. Not only does the name reference the 1984 Espace, but so does its design. The focus is on the interior, which is entirely designed for the comfort of passengers. We reveal here what unique features the E-Space offers.
Image: Renault
Renault is reviving the Espace concept. At the 2026 Paris Auto Show, the French brand will unveil the E-Space Concept, an all-electric design study intended as a modern successor to the 1984 Espace. It retains the silhouette of a classic large SUV van, a style that has also seen a resurgence in recent years with models like the Volvo EM90, Lexus LM, and Zeekr 009.
Measuring 4.70 meters in length, 2.02 meters in width, and 1.67 meters in height, the E-Space combines familiar proportions with very short overhangs and 23-inch wheels. While Renault hasn’t disclosed details about the powertrain, the electric van is said to feature a lower front splitter that reduces air resistance at high speeds to improve efficiency.
Renault Developed the E-Space from Inside Out
The starting point for developing the Renault E-Space was the interior, as the manufacturer emphasizes that the concept is designed around human needs and intended to serve as a “rolling living space.” The passenger area is meant to appear bright and airy thanks to large glass surfaces and windows positioned low. The doors open in opposite directions, allowing unobstructed access without a B-pillar. Six individual seats are installed on the completely flat floor. In the second row, these seats can be rotated 180 degrees to face the third row. Alternatively, they can remain facing forward to make use of the two 12.3-inch screens located at the back of the front seats.
The seats in the second row can also be folded together to form a table. This allows passengers in the third row to sit at the table while having unobstructed views of the two monitors, for which video game controllers are also provided. For added luxury on board, Renault has integrated a mini-fridge and an air purifier into a movable console.
Cosy Interior with Wide-Screen Display
Renault has equipped the cockpit of the E-Space with a curved widescreen display (1,130 x 110 mm) that covers the entire width below the windshield. It serves solely as a display and lacks touch functionality. Control is handled through two flexible touchscreens located next to the steering wheel. Renault calls this overall concept OpenR Panorama, and it is set to appear in future Renault models in higher vehicle classes, particularly the Renault Rafale and Scenic. Thus, this concept study provides a glimpse into actual production plans. It remains unconfirmed whether the full-size van will also have a series-produced successor.
Image: Renault
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In interior design, Renault uses bold colors and a 1970s-inspired style. This is evident in the three-centimeter-thick wool carpet on the floor. For table and decorative surfaces, the manufacturer uses dyed straw; the steering wheel is covered with a bio-material made from castor oil and cotton, and the paint contains bio-based resins. The tires are composed of about 19 percent sustainable natural rubber.
The brand has committed to using at least 30 percent recycled materials across its entire model lineup going forward. However, with the E-Space Concept, Renault goes a step further, using this concept vehicle primarily as a platform for bio-based and renewable alternatives, so that in the future it can rely not only on recycled materials but also entirely renewable raw materials.