France to replace CRS Fiat vans with Renault Master vehicles

The French Ministry of the Interior has announced a plan to progressively replace the Fiat Ducato vans used by the CRS (Compagnies Républicaines de Sécurité) with Renault Master vehicles. This decision follows the recording of 350 serious mechanical failures since January 1, 2026, resulting in a 12% unavailability rate for the fleet.

The ministry described these issues as “chronic malfunctions impairing the operational capacity of CRS units.” Reported difficulties include problems with the AdBlue system and particulate filters. These failures have led to operational challenges such as delayed relief shifts and the need to reorganize travel routes during missions.

The transition involves replacing a fleet of 625 Fiat Ducato vans. To facilitate this, 300 Renault Master units were ordered in 2025, with an additional 80 units ordered in 2026. Deliveries are expected to continue through 2028. The total investment for this program is estimated to be between 50 and 60 million euros, supporting French industry through vehicles assembled in Moselle.