A panel of judges from 25 European countries unanimously picked the Renault Master as the winner. They announced their decision at the Night of the Stars gala banquet.
The Ford E-Transit Custom and Stellantis ProOne Large Van range shared second place. The Stellantis lineup includes the Citroën Relay/Jumper, Fiat Ducato, Vauxhall/Opel Movano, and Peugeot Boxer. Other contenders were the Ford Transit Courier and Mercedes-Benz eSprinter.
Set to hit the roads in spring 2024, the new Master boasts a bold 'Aerovan' design that improves aerodynamics. It offers more space and comfort inside, along with new connected features. Buyers will have a choice of powertrains, including fully electric and diesel options from launch. Renault also showed off a hydrogen version at the IAA 2024.
Jarlath Sweeney, who heads up the award jury, explained why they picked the Master:
"The IVOTY jury were impressed with the completely new design and high levels of innovation and technology developed for the new Master range, which features advanced aerodynamics, increased usability and enhanced efficiency, space, safety and comfort. Plus the fact that its new modular platform accommodates diesel, electric and hydrogen powertrains."
This win marks Renault Group's fifth time taking home the International Van of the Year Award. They've previously won with the Master II in 1998, Trafic II in 2002, Kangoo Z.E in 2012, and Kangoo Van III in 2022.
Heinz-Jürgen Löw, head of LCV Renault Group, said:
"Receiving this award for our new Master is truly special and means a lot for us. This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion that went into making this possible."
The Master's victory comes on the heels of another big win for Renault. In February, their Scenic E-Tech model snagged the Car of the Year 2024 title. The last time Renault won back-to-back awards was 27 years ago with the first-generation Scenic and second-generation Master.
Source: Vanfleetworld
