Overview
The Nissan Interstar EV is Nissan's flagship large electric commercial vehicle, built on a dedicated large van architecture shared with the Renault Master E-Tech. The Interstar EV combines heavy-duty practicality with modern electric vehicle efficiency. It competes directly with key market rivals such as the Ford E-Transit, Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, and Stellantis large van family. The vehicle also holds a top-tier Euro NCAP Platinum safety rating, underlining its credentials as a secure and modern workhorse.
Design
The exterior styling of the Interstar EV balances functional utility with modern aesthetic refinements. Upfront, Nissan has fitted a distinctive front grille and sharp LED headlights that distinguish it from its platform siblings while projecting a confident, assertive stance on the road. The overall shape is aerodynamically optimized, achieving a 20% reduction in drag compared to the previous generation, which enhances high-speed efficiency and electric range. The vehicle is available in multiple body proportions, including L2 and L3 body lengths matched with H2 and H3 roof height. Broad side profiles feature protective plastic cladding, wide-opening side sliding doors measuring 1,312mm across, and twin rear cargo doors capable of opening up to 270° for seamless access in tight loading bays.
Interior
Inside, the cabin is designed as a comfortable and functional mobile office. Drivers are greeted by an elevated driving position with an adjustable steering wheel and supportive seating built for long days behind the wheel. Central to the dashboard is a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard. Ergonomics and cab storage are class-leading, offering 135 litres of cabin storage across ten open compartments, three enclosed gloveboxes, and large overhead shelves. Practicality is further enhanced by a fold-down central seatback that transforms into a flat desk and a hidden under-seat storage box for tools.
Performance & Powertrains
The Interstar EV is offered with two distinct battery configurations. The entry-level urban variant pairs a 40kWh battery with a 96kW electric motor producing 300Nm of torque, yielding a range of up to 124 miles and 50kW DC fast-charging capabilities. The flagship long-range specification features an 87kWh battery coupled to a 105kW electric motor with 300Nm of torque, delivering an impressive range of up to 283 miles. The 87kWh variant supports 130kW DC rapid charging, adding up to 157 miles of range in 30 minutes. Driving dynamics are refined, benefiting from light electrically assisted power steering, a tight 12.8-metre turning circle, effective sound isolation, and simple selectable regenerative braking modes.
Practicality
Cargo capacity and hauling ability remain uncompromised in the transition to electric power. Load volumes range from 10.8 cubic metres on the L2H2 panel van to a massive 14.8 cubic metres on the L3H3 variant, with factory conversions offering up to 20 cubic metres of volume. Payload ratings reach up to 1,125kg on 3.5t models and up to 1,557kg on 4.0t configurations. Within the cargo hold, a low rear loading height of 569mm, multiple floor tie-down points, and an available power adapter enable the vehicle's battery to power corded tools on work sites.
Buying
Pricing for the Nissan Interstar EV starts from around £45,000 excluding VAT, before applying the UK Plug-in Van Grant of up to £5,000. The lineup is offered in two main trim tiers: Acenta and Tekna. Acenta trim provides standard essentials such as the 10.1-inch infotainment screen, rear parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking, and 11kW AC charging capabilities. Tekna trim adds automatic climate control, a heated windscreen, 360-degree parking sensors, a rear-view camera, 270-degree rear doors, and an upgraded driver's seat with lumbar support. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the Interstar EV 87kWh Tekna L2H2 3.5t. This specification delivers the complete 283-mile driving range, rapid 130kW charging, generous 10.8 cubic metre load space, and strong payload performance, while remaining within the standard 3.5-tonne driving license threshold and including the key driver comfort upgrades of the Tekna trim.