news

Renault ZOE Electric Vehicle Revealed

Around this time last year, Renault confirmed plans to introduce a range of electric cars in coming years. Among those new models is the Clio-sized ZOE, unveiled at the Paris Auto Show this week.

Scheduled to make its market debut in 2012


Around this time last year, Renault confirmed plans to introduce a range of electric cars in coming years. Among those new models is the Clio-sized ZOE, unveiled at the Paris Auto Show this week.

Scheduled to make its market debut in 2012, the ZOE is powered by an electric motor producing 60kW and 222Nm of instant torque. 

Energy is provided by a lithium-ion battery pack, with a full charge coming in six to eight hours through a special wall-unit designed to connect to a regular home power supply.

On a full charge, the ZOE offers a driving range of around 160km - more than enough for most daily commuting tasks - and when charged through a purpose-made rapid-charge outlet, a 10 minute charge will offer a 55km range.

Renault says that the ZOE shown at Paris is "90 percent" production-ready, although it's likely that theinterior, headlights and side mirrors will be replaced with more conventional equipment. The wheels too will likely be swapped out for smaller and simpler wheels.

Australia

While Renault's partner Nissan is planning a 2012 Australian launch for its Leaf electric vehicle, Renault has yet to confirm local plans.

Speaking with Fairfax last year, Renault and Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn said that government incentives are the key to a strong EV push in any market.

"We think unless governments put incentives for consumers on the electric car it's going to be very difficult to make the electric car a factor," Mr Ghosn said.

Renault Australia has been contacted for an update on its local electric vehicle plans.

MORE:Renault Showroom
MORE:Renault News
MORE:Renault Reviews
MORE:Search Used Renault Cars for Sale
MORE:Renault Showroom
MORE:Renault News
MORE:Renault Reviews
MORE:Search Used Renault Cars for Sale
Chat with us!







Chat with Agent